Some days remind us just how powerful community can be.

This year’s Give2͹Ƶ Day was one of those moments for the Darden College of Education & Professional Studies. In just 24 hours, more than 118 donors came together on the to raise over $18,000 in support of Darden College students, programs, and scholarships. (Final numbers pending confirmation by ͹Ƶ Advancement.)

Give2͹Ƶ is ͹Ƶ’s annual 24-hour giving event, bringing together alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends to strengthen the University’s mission through collective generosity.

“Give2͹Ƶ is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of the heart, spirit, and unity of ͹Ƶ,” said Dean Tammi Dice. “It reminds us of what this community can achieve when we stand together in support of our students."

Fueling this incredible momentum were four giving challenges, offered by dedicated members of the Darden College Council. Each challenge was not only met—but completed within the first three hours of Give2͹Ƶ.

Kevin Knaack (Standard Calibrations Inc.) launched the Elevate Education Challenge, unlocking $3,000 for Darden’s general fund. “There’s a real sense of family with ͹Ƶ,” he shared in a recent article published by the university. “ We have Norfolk affiliates who never went to ͹Ƶ, but they give to the university because they feel that community connection at events and they like what they see. I think that speaks volumes.”

Don Musacchio offered the Invest in Education Challenge, adding $1,000 to his scholarship endowment. “There are multiple reasons I participate. First is a lofty one—it gives me a sense of purpose being part of something bigger than myself. Next is a practical one—it helps students focus on their education instead of worrying about money. And lastly, it just feels good knowing that the donation has a positive effect on DCEPS’s mission.”

Marcia Royal’s Teach, Lead, Give Challenge unlocked $2,000 for the general fund.

Dr. Linnie S. Carter matched every gift up to $2,500 with her Teach it Forward Match.
“Earning a Ph.D. from ͹Ƶ positively changed my life in so many ways,” said Dr. Carter. “Supporting ͹Ƶ philanthropically means I can pay it forward and support other first-generation college students. I want them to achieve their goals and exceed their own expectations. Many of them are standing on the shoulders of their ancestors. I hope my philanthropy helps them continue to make their ancestors proud.”

Later in the day, Leteria Scott, a Dean’s Office staff member and current Darden doctoral student, introduced her own $100-for-$100 match—proving that giving back is just as powerful when it comes from within.

“Give2͹Ƶ wasn’t just an outpouring of support—it was a clear signal that our community believes in the wide-reaching work our students are preparing to do,” Dean Dice said. “Whether they go on to become teachers, counselors, administrators, leaders, or advocates, this support strengthens every path.”

Thanks to the extraordinary support of the Monarch community, our students are better equipped to dream boldly, learn deeply, and lead with purpose - while seeing firsthand the impact of community.