SIUE Celebrates 5th Annual One Day, One SIUE Fundraising Event

University's annual giving day aims to raise millions for scholarships and programs.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:37pm

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A dreamy, impressionistic photograph showing the blurred outlines of people gathered outdoors, with hot air balloons rising in the distance, conveying the celebratory atmosphere of the SIUE fundraising event.The annual One Day, One SIUE celebration brings the university community together in a vibrant display of pride and generosity.Edwardsville Today

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is hosting its fifth annual One Day, One SIUE celebration on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The 24-hour fundraising event brings together alumni, partners, and the campus community to raise money for scholarships, programs, and other initiatives. In 2025, the event raised over $2.8 million from more than 1,070 first-time donors across 45 states, Washington D.C., and the United Kingdom.

Why it matters

One Day, One SIUE is a critical fundraising event that supports the university's mission of providing high-quality education and creating social and economic mobility for students. The event's success demonstrates the strong community support for SIUE and its programs, which prepare students for the global workforce and make positive impacts on the local region.

The details

This year's One Day, One SIUE celebration will feature expanded engagement opportunities, including eight VIP unit tent receptions, the return of a Bonus Dollar Challenge for student organizations, and the inflation of three hot air balloons on site. The evening celebration will include live music, food, beverages, and remarks from university leadership.

  • One Day, One SIUE will take place on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 6 p.m.
  • In 2025, the event raised $2,880,842.81 from over 1,070 first-time donors.

The players

Julie Babington

Senior director of annual giving at SIUE, responsible for the planning and coordination of One Day, One SIUE.

James T. Minor, PhD

Chancellor of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Mark Luer, PharmD, FCCP

Dean of the SIUE School of Pharmacy.

Lisa Spencer, RN, FACHE, BSN '93, MSN '01

Distinguished Community Leader and president of Anderson Hospital.

Connie Collins

Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and CEO of the SIUE Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“The success of One Day, One SIUE is rooted in campus-wide planning and collaboration. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to create meaningful connections and an unforgettable experience that inspires generosity.”

— Julie Babington, Senior director of annual giving

“One Day, One SIUE really brings out the best in our community—alumni, community partners and campus supporters coming together in support of the students and programs we care so deeply about. Our theme for the fifth annual Giving Day, 'Soaring to New Heights,' reflects the shared pride and connection that truly lifts SIUE.”

— Connie Collins, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and CEO of the SIUE Foundation

What’s next

The university is encouraging all alumni, partners, and community members to participate in the One Day, One SIUE celebration by making a donation through the event's giving hub.

The takeaway

SIUE's annual One Day, One SIUE fundraising event has become a powerful symbol of the university's strong community support and its commitment to providing transformative educational experiences for its students. The event's continued growth and success demonstrate the lasting impact SIUE has on the lives of its alumni and the broader region.