Seton Hall Achieves Historic Milestone: $2 Million Raised During Seventh Annual Giving Day

The seventh annual Giving Day at Seton Hall, held from April 17-18, achieved remarkable success. Spearheaded by University Advancement with collaborative efforts across the institution, including the Pirate Blue Athletic Fund and Seton Hall Law, the initiative set a new record once again and contributed to another historic year. Surpassing its goal of 1,856 donors (in tribute to the University’s founding year), Giving Day raised over $2 million from more than 2,200 Pirates. These outstanding results underscore the highest levels of both funds raised and donor participation since the inception of Giving Day in 2018.  

Anthony Bellucci, M.B.A. ’18, associate vice president of Alumni Engagement & Philanthropy, expressed his gratitude saying, "I am blown away by the support of this year’s Giving Day. From our alumni, parents, and friends to faculty, staff, and current students, our community continues to inspire me." He continued saying, "They are helping to demonstrate the incredible impact of unity, showing what is possible when we all come together."

Seton Hall strives toward enabling its students to continue on an upward path throughout their academic studies, providing innovative academic experiences that prepare them for their careers, and allow for better opportunities to be within reach. Through elevated rankings and admissions, it is clear that Seton Hall is stronger than ever. Having the second largest total of student applicants in the University’s history with over 24,000 student applicants just this year, shows that the deep commitment to students’ experiences and their growth is being recognized and propelled through the community's support and commitment.

Senior Associate Athletics Director for Development, Josh Azer said, "Pirate Nation never disappoints! This year’s Giving Day included our 50-State Challenge, and we received support to many ongoing initiatives like the Basketball Practice Facility." Azer emphasized that he "loved the enthusiasm among our student-athletes as they showed camaraderie in building up that success for the University but also for their very own sports teams in the division challenge. It really allowed them to contribute to making a difference."

From that point, a surge of support poured in from thousands of proud Pirates across the nation, as well as from many generous alumni and friends who engaged in various matches and challenges to inspire others to join the fun and unlock more funds. Highlighted University priorities included the Center for Sports Media, Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Office of International Programs, Buccino Leadership Institute, the R.I.S.E. program, and more which helped elevate the celebration. Resources designated to these areas will have a transformative impact on Seton Hall’s commitment to academic excellence.

The resilience of Seton Hall’s community is rooted in the passion of its Setonians to step up to every challenge, consistently serve and lead, diligently contribute, and demonstrate kindness for their fellow Pirates. Jon Paparsenos '99, vice president for University Advancement, said,

I am thankful for the ways in which our Seton Hall community shows up on days like Giving Day. As an alumnus, it was amazing to have such a strong support system during my time here and I can now stand on the other side seeing the effects of that for countless others. This day – and the success we’ve seen – would not be possible if it weren’t for our esteemed donors, the Board of Regents, valued members of the Executive Cabinet and the Alumni Board of Directors, and so many more.

Following the University’s strategic plan and heading into the next one, Seton Hall is more stable and hopeful than ever as it continues to elevate the possibilities and expectations of what the University can do and be for current and future Pirates. Year after year, Setonians continue to come together to show their commitment to being a Pirate and creating a more prosperous future with endless opportunities for Seton Hall.

Although Giving Day has ended, it is not too late to support the University and its top priorities. Make a gift today to support Seton Hall.

Categories: Alumni, Athletics, Campus Life, Law