Student fundraising effort plays off basketball bracket challenge

Radford University is getting in the March Madness spirit as a student-philanthropy group plans a basketball-themed fundraiser.

The Student Organization of Radford Alumni Development (SoRAD) March Fund Madness campaign will place the university's six colleges against one another in a bracket-style competition.  

To participate, students must make a donation to a cause of their choice within their respective college. Crystal Hubbard '00, M.B.A. '08, assistant director of Annual Giving, said the Deans have identified the greatest needs within their colleges to which students can donate. Examples include endowments and departmental funds.

Hubbard said the competition is a fun and creative way to get students involved while also educating them on the importance of philanthropy.

"One of the main drivers of philanthropy is pride, and we know our students have a lot of pride in their university," Hubbard said. "This sense of competition will drum up that pride and get students excited to give to a great cause that will impact their everyday lives."

At the end of every week, beginning March 21, colleges will advance or be "knocked out" of the bracket until only one victor remains. The last college standing will be awarded a special plaque.

Students can give in three ways:

  • A table will be set up at the Hurlburt Student Center Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every week, beginning March 21. Volunteers will be available to collect cash or credit/debit donations.
  • March Madness Giving Page (coming soon)
  • Students can text credit/debit card donations.

To educate students on the impact of giving, SoRAD has also organized a Giving Trail Challenge the week prior to the March Madness competition.  

SoRad believes in the fundamental importance of philanthropy as it pertains to the progression of Radford University and higher education as a whole. More than 500 students contributed to the Radford Fund last year.

These gifts strengthen Radford University's ability to serve students, faculty and staff through scholarships, teaching innovations and updated technology. Supporters help ensure that every generation of Highlanders will share in the same experiences and have the same opportunities.

Mar 11, 2016