CORRECTION: The original version of this article stated that Elon Day 2017 would be the third Elon Day. It will be the fourth. Elon News Network regrets the error.
Elon University’s fourth-annual “Elon Day” will be take place March 7 to commemorate the university’s 128th anniversary
Honoring the founding of Elon, the celebration has grown from a quiet on-campus event, to a viral and globally-engaged day-long extravaganza.
“I’m very excited. Every year, I wear maroon and gold, ” said senior Vashti Shiwmangal. “I gave to the senior class fund already this year but would consider giving again for Elon Day, why not?”
Elon Day focuses on social media engagement as a method to connect with alumni, students and friends all over the world. This year University Communications office has made enhancements with social media to make the day even more engaging, partnering with Amplo Advance, a leader in university giving.
“Every year we have broken the past record,” said Keren Rivas’04, assistant director of Elon’s Alumni Communications. “The most money raised was last year with $955,000, right below the $1 million mark which is very exciting for us because it is always in one day. We have a high mark to aspire to and surpass this year.”
The day aims to promote school-spirit and pride while also emphasizing the power and need for philanthropy. There will be several on-campus events, including a special “College Coffee”, a traditional Elon favorite. The College Coffee will be live-streamed and feature giveaways and complimentary breakfast.
“We aim to incorporate the students on campus more,” said Rivas. “We know you guys love Elon and have great pride in the university, but the idea of philanthropy is something we want students to hear about now so that they know the power and importance of having alum support the university in the years to come.”
There will be an emphasis on senior class giving this year as well.
“Elon Day is a very important day for Elon University,” said Ben Charette, head of the senior class giving initiative. “It is a day when everyone can give back to the place that has given so much to them. This support doesn’t necessarily have to be financial. Just show your Elon pride by attending the different events like college coffee and the toast to Elon!”
The office of communications asks the Elon community to look out for the Elon Day campus-kickoff video for more information on this year’s celebration.