Laker generosity shines on Giving Day with $411,432 raised

At Mercyhurst, the ringing of the Sister Damien Spirit Bell celebrates more than just athletic victories—it echoes the wins of the entire Laker community.

Last week, the Advancement team had their moment at Trinity Green, proudly ringing the bell after not only meeting but exceeding their Giving Day goal. With a target of $350,000, they rallied support from near and far to raise an astounding $411,432! If that wasn’t enough, they surpassed their goal of 1,000 donors by 500.

And the momentum didn’t stop there. In terms of participation, they shattered expectations. With a goal of 1,000 donors, they surpassed it by a stunning 500, bringing in 1,500 donors from across the Laker community—alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university.

“The support this year was incredible,” said Meaghan Hubert ’16 ’18M, director of Annual Giving & Stewardship. “Not only did we break records, but we had the most successful Giving Day ever.”

The energy on Giving Day was electric, fueled by exciting power hours, creative donor challenges, and generous matches. Gifts rolled in around the clock, supporting a wide range of initiatives. Some donors chose to give to the general fund, helping the university respond to areas of greatest need, while others directed their support to specific causes such as student scholarships, the Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM), or Laker Athletics.

It was a full-campus press, driven by spirit, generosity, and a shared commitment to Mercyhurst’s mission. And when it was all said and done, the sound of the Spirit Bell ringing out across Trinity Green was more than just tradition—it was a thank-you, a celebration, and a promise for the future.

PHOTO: Meaghan Hubert savors victory with Luke the Laker.