Colby-Sawyer College raised a record $862,609 on its seventh annual Day of Giving, which shattered the previous record set a year ago when donors gave $780,152 to the New London school. 

In addition, 1,921 people contributed to Colby-Sawyer during the 24-hour event Thursday, April 17, including 209 students who rallied to support athletic teams and new technology in residence halls.  

Colby-Sawyer Interim President Laura Sykes ’98 said the broad, generous financial support will strengthen the college and bolster students’ educational, residential and cocurricular experiences. 

“We are incredibly grateful for each and every donor’s contribution,” she said. “Giving back is about passing the torch forward. We already have so many points of pride, and these donations will allow us to even better prepare students to make a positive impact in the world.” 

Leading the Charge was the theme for the 2025 Day of Giving, which highlighted innovation and progress. 

One example of the college’s vision and innovation is the Janet Udall Schaefer ’52 Center for Health Sciences. Donors completely funded the cutting-edge clinical and academic center of excellence that opened in fall 2024. 

In many disciplines — including nursing, environmental science and exercise science — Colby-Sawyer has invested in new technologies to ensure students graduate with job-ready skills. Donations also fund fellowships and student trips abroad. 

Donors have also greatly benefited Charger athletic teams, including paying for dugout fencing and a press box with a stadium-quality sound system at the baseball complex. 

Tom White, associate athletic director and baseball coach, said that each year the Day of Giving reminds him that he is a member of a caring Colby-Sawyer family. “When we come together, we’re not just giving — we’re investing in the experience, growth and future of every Charger to come,” he said. 

Thanks to generous donors, residence hall lounges are being upgraded so students have comfortable, engaging places to learn, gather and relax after class. 

Roku-enabled flatscreen TVs and technology kits for resident halls encourage collaborative studying and provide students with opportunities to watch live events and important programming, as well as play video games, said Dave Zamansky, director of residential education.  

Vice President for College Advancement Dan Parish said that gifts Colby-Sawyer received April 17 allowed the college to unlock more than $270,000 in matching and challenge gifts that will directly support the outstanding work that happens on campus every single day. 

“Seeing so many alumni, parents, friends, faculty, staff and students come together to make the Day of Giving a success just confirms for me how special the Colby-Sawyer community is,” he said. 

During the Day of Giving, students, faculty and staff enjoyed food trucks, music and college gear giveaways outside of the Ware Student Center. During the evening, the Class of 2025 celebrated its successful gift campaign at Galligan’s Pub with free food and drinks.  

Donations are still welcome.