PEMBROKE — Thanks to support from the Brave Nation family, the We Are UNCP Day of Giving smashed last year’s mark.
In 24 hours, the campaign resulted in 567 donations, shattering last year’s total of 365. The University of North Carolina at Pembroke responded, thanking its supporters via social media.
“Gifts are still coming in as we speak, and we are extremely proud of the support from alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and students,” said Wendy Lowery, vice chancellor of Advancement. “Every individual person who participated is a part of making UNCP history. The whole purpose is to rally the Braves spirit across the country, showcasing pride and awareness of the importance of giving back. Brave Nation responded to the call and we are ecstatic.”
As an added bonus, former U.S. Rep. Mike McIntyre agreed to match the total gift amount, up to $30,000.
The 24-hour event raised more than $90,000, including McIntyre’s contribution, according to Lowery.
“UNCP is a place of opportunity where education does indeed make a difference in young people’s lives,” McIntyre said in a video message. “UNCP offers opportunity, outlook and optimism.”
The pride of UNCP was in full bloom as staff, students, faculty, alumni and community supporters came decked out in black and gold and flaunting their favorite UNCP gear. A pep rally-style kick-off was held on March 15 in the James B. Chavis Center complete with the university band and BraveHawk, the university mascot.
Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings led the crowd with a spirited cheer of “We are … UNCP!”
The event, in its third year, is held in March to coincide with the university’s birthday. UNC Pembroke was founded on March 7, 1887.
“We are about changing lives through education and preparing generations for the next 130 years,” Cummings said.
The event is also used to re-connect with alumni and to allow them to update their contact information,.
Also among the speakers during the kickoff were Pembroke businessman Spencer Howington, UNCP alumna and long-time educator Dr. Rose Marie Lowry-Townsend, and Lee Turner, an avid supporter of the university.
