ECU set to celebrate 10th day of giving Wednesday

ECU set to celebrate 10th day of giving Wednesday

GREENVILLE, N.C. (3/3/2026) - East Carolina University will celebrate its 10th annual day of giving on Wednesday. Pirate Nation Gives is a 24-hour online fundraising event that encourages alumni, friends, faculty, staff, parents and students to come together and support the university.

"Generosity and dedication to ECU are front and center during Pirate Nation Gives," said Christopher Dyba, vice chancellor for University Advancement. "This day is about everything ECU. Through giving back, every Pirate can be involved in the impact this university has on our students, our region and the world."

Since 2017, Pirate Nation Gives has raised more than $50 million for ECU initiatives. Last year, more than 2,300 alumni, friends and students took the opportunity to support ECU, giving more than $10 million. More than 600 were first-time donors.

The collective support for ECU will create scholarships, fund professorships, enhance student-centered programs and shape initiatives that transform ECU and the region it serves.

"Alumni and friends have shown incredible support for university initiatives during each year's day of giving. We are eager to see the impact Pirate Nation has during this year's event," Dyba said. "Every gift makes a difference for students, research, arts, health care, athletics and more. Combining one person's philanthropy with that of others creates limitless possibilities."

PNG Champions have pledged to support ECU. More than 80 individuals, families and organizations have pledged support of $5,000 or more to establish challenges for donors, which, when fulfilled, will unlock additional gifts supporting scholarships and programs across all disciplines.

Donors can make gifts to any area they feel passionate about. Student organizations, club sports, support for veterans and a scholarship honoring a legendary nursing educator are among the priorities during this year's Pirate Nation Gives.

On campus and across Pirate Nation, supporters can participate in the 24-hour fundraiser. Social media challenges will give participants the opportunity to win bonus money for their favorite ECU area or fund.

A PeeDee's Matey stuffed toy treasure hunt and philanthropy honor cords for graduating Pirates are planned to boost involvement on campus. Students can participate in Pirate Nation Gives activities from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Main Campus Student Center and at Eakin Recreation Center from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Donations can be made on the Pirate Nation Gives website or by calling 252-ECU-GIVE (252-328-4483).

Contact: Patricia Earnhardt Tyndall, Public Communications Specialist, [email protected]

Telephone: 252-737-1505

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About East Carolina University

Founded in 1907 as a teacher's college, East Carolina University (ECU) is a Carnegie R1 designated research institution that is a national model for student success, public service and regional transformation. ECU is a member of the University of North Carolina System and serves nearly 27,000 students through more than 160 degree programs. The university advances innovation and discovery in health care, coastal resilience, education and regional economic growth. Located in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU is committed to being a national leader in community-focused innovation, bringing meaningful impact across the state and nation.

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East Carolina University News Services

Howard House, 1001 E. Fifth Street

Greenville, NC 27858

[email protected]

Phone: 252-328-6481