04/19/24

By: FHSU Foundation

HAYS, Kan. – Tiger fans near and far banded together earlier this week for Fort Hays State University’s 4th annual Giving Day. While numbers are still being finalized, preliminary results show that nearly 1,000 gifts were made, totaling more than $170,000.

This year, the 24-hour fundraising effort featured 15 projects across academic departments, campus organizations, and teams in need of financial support. Donors could give to one of the highlighted projects or designate their gift to the area of FHSU that means the most to them. Contributions poured in from generations of alumni, community members, faculty, and staff. Several gifts came in from an unexpected demographic – current students.

Inspired by the generosity of others, student Bailasaan “Beso” Ghunaim stepped up to support a campus project that she believes in as part of FHSU’s Giving Day. Bailasaan is an aspiring physician studying Medical Diagnostic Imaging at Fort Hays State. She’s also a hard-working student who juggles two jobs to save for medical school. Although FHSU students are known for being resilient and for their grit and determination, Bailasaan recognizes that some students struggle to access nourishing food or go to bed hungry at night. Hoping to raise awareness, she made a gift in support of the Tiger Food Pantry.

“Food is something that should always be readily available to students,” she said.

Bailasaan and so many others expressed enthusiasm for the day and what it represents. Donors supported a variety of projects across campus, including the new Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex and the upcoming Forsyth Library renovation. Others opted to support significant upgrades to the existing cadaver lab in Albertson Hall and scholarships for student teachers.

“We’re grateful for everyone who made a gift,” said Erica Fisher, FHSU Foundation Director of Annual Giving. “Yes, you’ve made a financial contribution, but to a student, you’ve created an opportunity or perhaps changed a life.”

For those who did not make a Giving Day gift, you can still make a difference. Visit foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift and support the area of FHSU that means the most to you. Learn more about the Fort Hays State Foundation by visiting foundation.fhsu.edu, calling 785-628-5620, or emailing foundation@fhsu.edu.