AU registers new record during 2025 Day of Giving

ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University’s Office of Institutional Advancement reported a record Day of Giving, as more than $400,000 was raised for the first time during the ninth annual event. Over a 36-hour window from March 19-20, donors from across the country raised $400,809, which will go to a number of initiatives all in an effort to support student success.

The record amount exceeded last year’s mark of $374,000 and came from 661 donors, comprised of alumni, board members, faculty/staff, parents, students and friends of the university.

Each donor had the option to designate their gift to a specific area or make an unrestricted gift to the Ashland Fund, which allows the university to direct resources to areas of greatest need. More than $120,000 in gifts went to the Ashland Fund and more than $50,000 went to annual student scholarships.

Gifts came in from 24 different states. While Ohio had the most donors and other nearby states were well represented, donations also came in from the likes of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.

Mark Libs, executive director of institutional advancement and director of annual giving, was thrilled with the final results from AU’s 2025 Day of Giving. “Our team is overwhelmed by the generosity and spirit of Ashland University donors. This year’s record Day of Giving demonstrates the passion from Eagle Nation, which spans alumni to current students and their families and our hard-working faculty and staff, and, of course, to our Board of Trustees,” he said.

Libs added, “Most important, these gifts will be impactful. They will help current and future students excel and allow them to explore their passions. Thanks to all who worked diligently behind the scenes to make this day happen.”