Georgia State University’s eighth annual day of giving, Georgia State Day 2026, set a record with more than $1.35 million raised, topping last year’s historic first million-dollar giving day. Once again, Georgia State alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends rallied to boost hundreds of university programs that provide support and open doors for GSU students.

“For the second year in a row, the Georgia State community has shown GSU students — and the university — extraordinary support by generously powering us to another new Georgia State Day fundraising record,” said Georgia State University President M. Brian Blake. “I’m deeply appreciative of everyone who gave on Georgia State Day and am honored by their belief in our mission and ambitious vision for the future.”

This year’s giving day garnered support across all colleges and units, with more than 1,300 donors contributing to more than 1,700 total gifts. Georgia State Day donors propelled several colleges and units to notable fundraising gains this year, led by Georgia State’s Perimeter College, which experienced a more than 250 percent increase in funds raised compared to last year’s giving day. The School of Public Health (more than 120 percent increase), the Honors College (almost 100 percent), The Graduate School (50 percent) and GSU Athletics (10 percent), also experienced notable fundraising growth this Georgia State Day.

Once again, challenge gifts helped power Georgia State Day success, with donors providing nearly $600,000 in matches or other giving incentives. Challenges from the GSU Foundation Board of Trustees led to more than $200,000 being raised for university-wide direct student support — including student wellness, emergency assistance and scholarships funds — and nearly $110,000 in donations to intercollegiate athletics.

“The Georgia State University Foundation Board strongly believes in the important role Georgia State Day plays in uniting the GSU community, highlighting student success and uplifting Panthers, so it’s incredibly rewarding to see Georgia State supporters help us again set a new giving day record,” said Kevin Lofton (M.H.A. ’79), chair of the Georgia State University Foundation Board. “I want to express my deep gratitude to our Foundation Board trustees and leadership donors for their exceptional support and give my sincere thanks to everyone who gave on Georgia State Day.”

While the funds raised on Georgia State Day make a meaningful difference across the university, the impact of giving day support is immeasurable on individual students. More than half of all Georgia State students come from Pell-eligible households, and each year 80 percent of GSU students report some type of unmet financial need. Georgia State Day donations provide vital funds for programs that remove financial barriers and create opportunities for students — key factors that have made Georgia State a national leader in student success.

“Those of us who work at Georgia State University have the privilege of interacting with students every day — we observe their spark, hear their dreams and marvel at their determination in the face of the financial difficulties,” said Allison Calhoun-Brown, senior vice president for student success. “On behalf of all GSU students, I want thank Georgia State Day donors and volunteers for creating career-building opportunities and sending them a powerful message: that we see them, believe in their potential and are inspired by the future they will help shape.”

Explore thestateday.gsu.edu for the complete list of giving challenges and other Georgia State Day 2026 information. Learn how donor dollars are making a difference in the lives of Georgia State students at giving.gsu.edu.