UW's Day of the Badger raises over $2 million

Annual giving celebration sees record donations to support students

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:41am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A blurred, impressionistic photograph of people walking across a college campus, with a historic building in the background, all bathed in a warm, hazy glow of light and color.The vibrant energy and community spirit of the University of Wisconsin's annual Day of the Badger fundraising event is captured in a dreamlike, impressionistic scene.Madison Today

The University of Wisconsin's annual Day of the Badger fundraising event has raised over $2 million in donations from alumni, students, and friends to support various programs and departments across the university.

Why it matters

The Day of the Badger event is a critical part of the university's fundraising efforts, allowing UW to maintain and expand the programs and resources available to current and future students. The record-breaking $2 million in donations demonstrates the strong community support for the university.

The details

During the 24-hour Day of the Badger event, donors were able to contribute to over 150 different UW programs and departments of their choice. The donations will go towards supporting students through scholarships, academic initiatives, and extracurricular activities.

  • The Day of the Badger event took place on April 16, 2026.

The players

Nicole Weir

The associate director of annual giving at the University of Wisconsin.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Day of the Badger really showed us how much people care about the UW, which is so inspiring. We see gifts coming from every corner of the world. From on campus, everyone gets involved, and I love seeing the thousands and thousands of gifts that pour in.”

— Nicole Weir, Associate Director of Annual Giving

The takeaway

The record-breaking $2 million raised during the University of Wisconsin's Day of the Badger event demonstrates the strong community support for the university and its ability to engage alumni, students, and friends in supporting critical programs and resources for current and future Badgers.