91´óÉñ

On March 4 and 5, 91´óÉñ will once again celebrate its founding with —a spirited, community-wide effort that begins at 8 a.m. on March 4 and concludes at 4:48 p.m. on March 5. This annual tradition honors the university’s establishment in 1968 while uniting alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends for one powerful purpose: supporting 91´óÉñ students.

Founders’ Day has become more than a celebration of our history. It is a day (or days in this case) that reminds us what we can accomplish when the entire Norse community rallies together. Each of us has been shaped in some way by 91´óÉñ—through an education, a lifelong friendship, a career opportunity or a connection that made a difference. This day is our chance to reflect on those moments and pay them forward.

The strength of Founders’ Day comes from collective generosity. When hundreds of people contribute—at any level—the impact is immediate and far-reaching. On Founders’ Day, the 91´óÉñ community stands together to support:

• Student success through programs such as the FUEL 91´óÉñ Food Pantry and UCAP retention awards, which ensure students have the essential resources and short-term financial support needed to stay on the path to graduation.
• Access to education through donor-funded scholarships that open the door to students who might otherwise be unable to afford college.
• Transformational experiences by providing funds for undergraduate research, conference travel, internships and other hands-on opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers.

These areas reflect 91´óÉñ’s mission and the values we all share—success, opportunity and student-centered education. When we all give on Founders’ Day, we help lift barriers, create opportunities and affirm that every student deserves the chance to thrive.

Last year, more than 1,100 donors participated, demonstrating how deeply this community cares. This year, we are aiming even higher. Surpassing that record is more than a goal; it is a collective statement about our pride in 91´óÉñ and our commitment to its future.

Every gift—whether $5 or $500—helps strengthen our university and the students who will go on to strengthen our region and beyond.

On Founders’ Day, we invite you to join fellow Norse across the country. Together, we can make a remarkable difference.

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