Franklin College Launches 14th Annual #GivetoGRIZ Day of Giving
Franklin College is gearing up for its 14th annual Day of Giving Challenge, #GivetoGRIZ, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Every dollar raised supports the Franklin Fund, giving the College the flexibility to direct resources where they are needed most. Donors may also choose to designate their gift to a specific area, such as student scholarships, academic programs, experiential learning, student recruitment, digital fluency, or diversity and inclusion.
“GivetoGRIZ is one of my favorite days of the year — there's genuine energy and excitement as our entire community rallies together,” said Nora Brems, vice president for institutional advancement. “Every gift, no matter the size, has a real and lasting impact on our students' collegiate experiences at FC, setting the stage for a lifetime of independent thinking, innovation, leadership and action. This is our chance to show what it truly means to be a Grizzly.”
This year's goal is to raise $300,000 with at least 1,000 donors participating. The 24-hour fundraising event will be promoted across the College's social media channels — including Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Bluesky — as well as email and other communication channels. Those wishing to give during #GivetoGRIZ will find the URL on the College’s website, www.FranklinCollege.edu, and social media platforms during the 24-hour fundraising event. New this year is the ability to give via DAFpay and crypto currency.
The day’s events include:
From Austria with Love: Casey Hayes' Musical #GivetoGRIZ Virtual Hour from noon to 1 p.m.:
Join us for an unforgettable virtual event hosted by Casey Hayes, Ph.D., Franklin College professor, A.J. Thurston Endowed Chair of Music and international admissions representative, broadcasting live from Austria. This unique lunch hour experience will transport you from your workplace to the heart of Europe's musical capital as Hayes creates an international bridge between alumni across the globe. Don't miss this opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and experience the transcendent power of music to unite our community across continents.
Pulliam School of Journalism Virtual Happy Hour from 5 - 6 p.m.:
Unwind, reconnect and raise a glass with your fellow alumni and PSJ Family at our Virtual Happy Hour hosted by John Krull, director of the Pulliam School of Journalism, publisher of TheStatehouseFile.com and professor of journalism. Whether you’re sipping on a cocktail, mocktail or just some well-earned coffee, this is your time to kick back, share some laughs and catch up with friends — with no word count limits! Expect fun conversations, lighthearted memories and maybe even some surprise guests.
Registration for each event is available at alumni.franklincollege.edu/events.
New this year is the Reunion-Year Challenge. Individuals with graduation years ending in a 1 or a 6 will have a chance to prove that their class was the best ever as part of a friendly #GivetoGRIZ competition and receive special recognition at the 2026 Homecoming. No registration is required.
The Greek Alumni Challenge returns, inviting fraternity and sorority alumni to reconnect with their chapters by donating during #GivetoGRIZ. Alumni participation will assist their chapter’s Greek Week standing. The initiative not only strengthens the bond between alumni and current members but also creates a meaningful way for graduates to help their chapters through their generous support. No registration is required.
The one-day giving challenge began in 2013 with a successful effort, earning the Division of Institutional Advancement a Silver Award in their district from the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). Each year the College has met and exceeded its goal. Last year was the most successful #GivetoGRIZ to date for the College, raising $358,985.
Those having questions about the one-day challenge or sponsorship opportunities may contact Jill Bode, Director of Annual Giving & Stewardship, at (317) 738-8036 or by email at jbode@FranklinCollege.edu.