JMU soars past goal on JMU Giving Day 2025

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SUMMARY: In just 24 hours, 3,659* Dukes came together to contribute more than $1.2 million, surpassing the university’s giving participation goal.

On Feb. 27, the Madison community came together to show the world what it means to Give Like a Duke, with 3,659* Dukes contributing more than $1.2 million over 24 hours. Through small and large gifts, every Duke helped make an impact on students, programs and the future of JMU.

Banner for James Madison University's Giving Day, displaying the slogan "Give Like a Duke" with campus buildings in the background.
Signs of JMU Giving Day were all around campus.
Students engaging at an outdoor table, enjoying snacks and drinks during an event on campus.
The online excitement spread to campus, where fun activities gave students a new understanding of the ways alumni generosity has built the Madison Experience.

Advocates made the difference

"I want to extend a huge thank you to our 152 dedicated advocates," said Karen Risch Mott, the director of Annual Giving. "You generated 420 gifts and more than $63,000 through your personal outreach." These champions of JMU Giving Day shared their passion and inspired others, amplifying the impact of every dollar given. JMU's top three advocates inspired more than 160 Dukes who gave over $25,000 to their favorite causes:

  • Taylor Kim – 86 donors
  • Paula Polglase – 66 donors
  • Robin Dyer – 17 donors
Dukettes holding a sign that reads "GIVE LIKE A DUKE" while promoting school spirit.
Dukettes handed out purple cookies to fellow students in front of Forbes Center for the Performing Arts.
Students promoting a fundraising campaign at a campus event, featuring a golf cart adorned with a "Give Like a Duke" sign and a decorated table with informational materials.
Dukes searched for Mad Money Boxes hidden on campus. 
Students celebrating JMU Giving Day with a mascot and festive decorations.
Students who found Mad Money Boxes donated the money inside to their favorite Giving Day fund and got to keep the swag.
Tim Miller handing out JMU Giving Day cookies from a golf cart in UREC.
Dr. Tim Miller, vice president of student affairs, and Cannie Campbell, associate vice president of constituent engagement, drove a golf cart through UREC handing out purple cookies to gymgoers.

Giving-at-a-glance

Gift range: $5 to $100,000

Most-popular funds: Marching Royal Dukes, followed by Proud and True and Dukes Pay it Forward Annual Scholarships

The MRDs n purple shirts playing brass and woodwind instruments at a lively event.
The Marching Royal Dukes played again this year at Late Night Breakfast, co-presented by the University Program Board and the Office of Annual Giving, in Festival.
A large group of MRDs in purple shirts performing in a spacious indoor area, surrounded by tables and windows.
The more than 100 MRDs present at Late Night Breakfast cheered when it was announced that they had won the first and last challenge on Giving Day.
A student sings into a microphone while Tim Miller plays guitar beside her, both performing in a brightly lit venue.
Emily Ferrao ('25) and Dr. Tim Miller performed together at LNB.

The Madison Spirit in action

"JMU’s Giving Day isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact," said Risch Mott. "Every contribution fuels opportunities for students, enhances academic programs and strengthens the Madison Experience. Whether you gave, advocated or shared your story, you made a difference.

"From all of us at JMU, thank you for believing in the power of giving and showing what it means to Give Like a Duke!"

Statue of James Madison wearing a purple shirt that reads "JMU GIVING DAY."
Every day is a good day to be a Duke — and JMU Giving Day was an extraordinary one. 
*Gift processing continues so we can credit spouses as donors where applicable and add relevant offline gifts. Final totals will be shared later.

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James Madison University
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Published: Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Last Updated: Thursday, March 6, 2025

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