UCCS’s inaugural Carry the Light Giving Day brought our community together on April 10, 2025, to demonstrate the power of collective generosity. 

The 24-hour fundraiser uplifted a variety of funds from across UCCS from scholarships, essential programs, and resources for students. A huge thank you goes to the generous donors and supporters who made a gift on April 10 to celebrate UCCS. Early estimates show the new giving day raised more than $100,000. 

Activities for the Carry the Light Giving day included a volunteer opportunity at Care and Share, hosted by the UCCS Alumni and Friends Volunteer Program, and a community celebration event held off campus at Almagre, a local event venue.  

The Carry the Light community celebration included special recognition for community donors along with inspiring moments from alumni, volunteers, and scholarship recipients who shared how they are carrying their light into the world. Emmanuella Appiah, a current UCCS student, shared that without donor support for scholarships, she would not be able to develop her leadership through student groups on campus like Student Government and the African Student Union. 

The community’s enthusiasm, dedication and participation made Carry the Light a truly memorable and impactful giving day.  

Photo booth pictures from the Carry the Light event can be found here.