VIU Foundation’s Giving Tuesday campaign raises more than $350,000 for students in need

The campaign engaged with a record number of new donors.

­­Vancouver Island University (VIU) students will have more access to scholarships, awards and bursaries following the university’s annual Giving Tuesday campaign.

The campaign, which wrapped up on Tuesday, November 28, saw the community band together to support students, raising more than $350,000 for scholarships, bursaries, awards and special initiatives with 100% of proceeds raised directly supporting students. A record-breaking number of new donors engaged with the campaign for the first time.

“We are grateful to both our longtime and new donors for the support for students in need,” said Richard Horbachewski, VIU Chief Advancement Officer and Executive Director of the VIU Foundation. “Every day, our students inspire us with their passion, drive and commitment to shaping a brighter tomorrow. However, many face financial barriers that hinder their journey to success. The support not only gives students a financial boost; it also lifts spirits, showing students there is a community who cares about their success.”

Giving Tuesday is a global movement to encourage people to support causes meaningful to them during a season that is heavy on holiday sales and consumerism. Every year, the VIU Foundation selects initiatives to focus its fundraising efforts on. This year, the foundation highlighted the VIU Access Fund, which can quickly assist students in financial distress who are at risk of having to pause their studies. The Spotlight Series profiled special projects to enhance student learning and success.  

“Giving Tuesday at VIU isn’t merely about making a donation; it’s an investment in the leaders, innovators and change-makers of the future. It’s a testament to the community’s belief in our students’ potential,” said Horbachewski. “Our heartfelt appreciation goes to VIU alumni and employees, local businesses and caring community members for supporting a wide range of initiatives and scholarships. Every single donation makes a difference for students.”

One hundred per cent of every donation goes to the donor’s cause of choice. To learn more about Giving Tuesday at VIU, visit the VIU Foundation’s Giving Tuesday homepage.

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Media Contact:

Jenn McGarrigle, External Communications Manager, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.619.6860 | E: Jenn.McGarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews

The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nation on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.