UToledo Wraps up Record-setting Rocket Forward Day of Giving

UToledo Wraps up Record-setting Rocket Forward Day of Giving

The University of Toledo Rocket Forward Day of Giving is more than a day of generosity - it is a powerful reminder of what is possible when Rocket Nation unites around a shared purpose.

Thanks to University supporters, our students will dream bigger, our researchers will pursue bolder ideas and our patients will step confidently into futures filled with opportunity. Your support strengthens not only UToledo, but the communities we serve and the lives we touch every day.

The 36-hour effort rallied more than 4,000 donors together to raise $2,454,720, setting new all-time campaign records for both donor participation and dollars raised. The funds were generated through online donations and live event participation for areas across the University and UToledo Health. This is a 4.7% increase in donor participation and 16.7% in dollars when compared to the previous year.

View the full 2026 campaign results here.

"The 2026 campaign's remarkable success is a testament to the power of Rocket Nation. When our students, alumni, faculty, staff, partners and friends come together, everything is possible," said UToledo President, Dr. James Holloway. "Through your generous support, we're not just meeting goals; we're expanding opportunities, strengthening our campuses and deepening the impact we have across northwest Ohio and beyond. Thank you for believing in The University of Toledo, for investing in our students' futures, and for propelling this University forward with purpose and pride."

A fan-favorite way to participate, hundreds of UToledo supporters visited community and local businesses including Calvino's, Casual Pint, The Blarney Irish Pub, Hangover Easy, Home Slice, Jake's Saloon, Jupmode, Last Hope Tattoo Company, So Many Somethings Desserterie and UToledo Health Four Seasons Bistro.

Brown Honda, Jim White Toyota, Medical Mutual and Paramount, Ronald McDonald House of Northwest Ohio, Treu House of Munch and the City of Toledo Department of Public Utilities also served as community partners by making outright donations on behalf of their business and encouraged patrons to participate. The initiatives of all community partners added an additional 867 donors to the campaign.

This year, 279 advocates generated 653 gifts, for a total of nearly $50,000, by using their unique participation links. Many Advocates also offered match and challenge opportunities to encourage participation. Rocket Athletics showed their competitive spirit by offering $3,000 to the team with the most donors. Women's volleyball dominated the challenge with 368 donors followed by men's golf and women's softball with 214 and 149 donors respectively. The second-place team earned $2,500 for their program and the third-place team claimed $2,000.

Thank you Rocket Nation for using your Power To Do life-changing things for our University!