More than just a day of fundraising, AUR’s Giving Day has quickly become a well-loved tradition - an opportunity for students, alumni, faculty, staff, families, and friends to rally around the institution that connects them all. From Rome to New York, London to Chicago, the AUR spirit was alive and thriving.
The goal was ambitious, but the response was extraordinary.
Thanks to the shared commitment and heartfelt generosity of the global AUR network, this year's Giving Day surpassed its fundraising target - raising over $22,500 from 279 individual contributions. These funds will directly support AUR scholarships and development projects, ensuring that current and future students can access transformative academic opportunities regardless of their financial circumstances.
Every gift, no matter the size, was a testament to the power of collective action and belief in AUR’s mission.
“Giving Day shows what makes AUR truly special,” said Senior Director of Advancement, Anne Marie Judge, “which is the strength of our community. We’re a small university with a big global footprint, and that connection doesn’t fade after graduation. It grows stronger.”
This year’s theme, unity through generosity, resonated strongly. On campus, students engaged in awareness events and shared their personal stories about how scholarships have impacted their lives. Alumni groups hosted meetups in cities across the U.S., reconnecting over memories and their shared commitment to giving back. The celebratory concert featuring Professor Timothy Martin and the Amazing Grace Gospel Choir capped the occasion with energy, enthusiasm, and reminders of why AUR’s unique international experience matters.
As AUR continues to expand its reach and impact, Giving Day reinforces a simple but powerful idea: you can make a difference. Each act of giving helps sustain the academic excellence, cultural richness, and close-knit community that define the AUR experience.
The University extends heartfelt thanks to every donor, participant, and volunteer who made Giving Day 2025 a success. Your support helps shape futures, and ensures that the AUR journey remains accessible to all who are ready to begin it.