MSU looks to continue Giving Day success

MINOT, N.D. - Minot State University and the MSU Development Foundation invite alumni, friends, and supporters to make a lasting impact during the eighth annual Giving Day on Wednesday, April 8.

The annual 24-hour, campus-wide effort supports students and strengthens programs across MSU. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are encouraged to come together and support the programs and initiatives that matter most to them.

"Minot State University's Giving Day continues to showcase the incredible pride and generosity of the MSU community," said Rick Hedberg '89, MSU vice president for advancement and executive director of the MSU Development Foundation. "Since its inception, Giving Day has grown into a powerful annual tradition."

Hedberg noted that the event consistently brings together hundreds of donors who collectively demonstrate how even modest gifts can have a meaningful impact.

"The influence of Giving Day is visible across campus," he added. "From enhancing academic programs to providing new equipment and expanding student opportunities, the support we receive helps strengthen the overall experience and ultimately creates greater opportunities for our students at Minot State."

Every gift goes further on Giving Day. The MSU Development Foundation will match 50% of donations up to $1,000, instantly increasing the impact of each contribution. Throughout the day, additional donor-funded challenges will unlock bonus dollars, creating additional opportunities to maximize impact.

Since its launch, Giving Day has generated nearly $2 million in support, fueling scholarships, academic programs, athletics, and campus initiatives. That momentum continues to grow, with the past two years each surpassing $400,000 raised. In 2025 alone, 1,447 donors contributed more than $450,212 - a record-setting show of support.

Giving Day also provides a unique platform for campus programs to highlight specific needs and priorities. These range from scholarships and equipment purchases to travel support and other initiatives that directly benefit students. In 2026, more than 50 projects will be featured across academic and athletic areas, including six key university priorities: athletic scholarships, the Empower Grant, the general scholarship fund, the Hometown Pride Scholarship, the MSU Vision Fund, and the student emergency fund.

From funding scholarships to enhancing learning environments and supporting student experiences, every dollar raised helps shape the future of Minot State.

MSU is also proud to announce a continued partnership with Subway of Minot to provide a free lunch to all MSU Giving Day donors in the Student Center Quad. The lunch includes a Subway sandwich, chips, and a drink, and will be served from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. or while supplies last.

Giving Day 2026 will start at 12:01 a.m. April 8 and runs until 11:59 p.m. (CDT).

The MSU Development Foundation encourages both participation and engagement from alumni, friends, and donors leading up to and during MSU Giving Day. The hashtag #MSUGivingDay is also encouraged for social media posts.

Log on to the MSU Giving Day website, Give.MinotStateU.edu, for more information on the event and project details. For questions, contact MSU Director of Foundation Operations Kate Marshall by email or by phone at (701) 858-4158.