PIRATE NATION GIVES

ECU sets new record on third annual giving day

East Carolina University’s third annual Pirate Nation Gives fundraising day on March 20 raised more than $805,000 in 24 hours, surpassing last year’s amount of $500,000.

The one-day, social-media-driven effort encouraged alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and friends to donate money to support the university and its programs. Donations will go toward creating golden opportunities, championing research, sustaining ECU’s values, allowing students to explore new worlds and building the university’s future, said Christopher Dyba, vice chancellor for university advancement. 

“Since the founding of our great university, Pirates have remained dedicated to helping others. That generosity and dedication to service is front and center during Pirate Nation Gives, an annual celebration of giving that makes a big difference all year long,” Dyba said. “I’d like to sincerely thank everyone who gave for supporting ECU and our hardworking students, faculty and staff. We are so grateful and excited for the many wonderful ways your gifts will impact our campus.”

Two anonymous donors recently pledged substantial gifts that they wished to be counted for Pirate Nation Gives. The first was a $100,000 gift to be split between athletics and the Honors College, and the second was a $500,000 gift for the college STEPP Program (Supporting Transitions and Education through Planning and Partnerships), which supports students with learning disabilities. Among ECU’s colleges, the Honors College received the most in donations thanks to the previously mentioned commitment. The College of Business had a strong showing as well, including a $10,000 gift to the accounting department.

New this year were activities for students to reinforce the power of philanthropy. Students were able to express their gratitude to donors by signing thank-you cards at two locations on campus during Pirate Nation Gives.

For more information, go to ecu.edu/piratenationgives.