Libby Epoch, a University of Saskatchewan civil engineering student and former women's basketball Huskie athlete holds a thank you sign on the USask campus. (Photo: David Stobbe)
Libby Epoch, a University of Saskatchewan civil engineering student and former women's basketball Huskie athlete. (Photo: David Stobbe)

Generosity of USask community fuels Giving Day success

On Sept. 12, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) held its first Giving Day, in support of the Be What the World Needs Campaign.

Thanks to the generosity of more than 400 donors, $253,859 was raised to elevate 64 projects ranging from student scholarships and critical research, to Indigenous priorities and a new design hub for the College of Engineering. Gifts made on Giving Day had double the impact as several generous alumni stepped up to match donations dollar-for-dollar.  

“Our strong community of donors and supporters is truly exceptional,” said Peter Stoicheff, USask president and vice-chancellor. “Each gift made on Giving Day strengthened our bold pursuit of being the university the world needs.” 

Thanks to a partnership with Rawlco Radio, Giving Day was featured on News Talk 650 CKOM through live interviews throughout the day with USask leaders, faculty, staff and students as they spoke about the impact of giving across all areas of the university. 

Libby Epoch, a civil engineering student and former Huskie women’s basketball student-athlete, emphasized that gifts made on Giving Day support the university and students in every area.  

“Gifts will support our labs and new equipment, support students through scholarships and bursaries that allow us to focus on our studies, and in turn, help us reach our full potential,” said Epoch. “We are so thankful for each donation today.”  

Members of the university community and visitors who attended the Welcome Back Powwow and Métis Dance Celebration happening that same day, were invited to visit the Giving Day Hub in Place Riel to learn more about the campaign, make their donation, and pick up giveaways. 

“We were overwhelmed with generous gifts from both the broader community, and our USask faculty, staff and students. Seeing such a diverse group of champions come together on Giving Day to support the people, projects and places that mean the most to them is truly inspiring,” said Cheryl Hamelin, vice-president of University Relations.  

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to our generous alumni who stepped up to match donations today and make every gift go further.”  

Matching donations were generously provided by USask alumni Grit (BEd'91) and Scott McCreath (BComm'69), Jefferson Mooney, C.M. (BA'66, LLD'19), Greg (BComm'79) and Rae Smith, and the Engineering Advancement Trustees. 

If you missed the chance to make your gift on USask Giving Day, it’s not too late to make a difference. Donate to the Campaign for USask today at give.usask.ca. 

Together we will support and inspire students to succeed. We invite you to join by supporting current and future students' needs at USask.