Carnegie Mellon Athletics Community Exceeds Tartan Challenge Goal
(PITTSBURGH, Pa.) – The first-ever Tartan Challenge was a tremendous success, as the Carnegie Mellon Athletics community came together to exceed the goal set by lead donors last month. In the middle of January, the athletics department announced that it had received $20,000 in funds from select donors to inspire increased giving and participation. Students, alumni, parents and friends answered the call in a big way, as 275 donors contributed $33,806.84 to achieve the full donor match.
“I am so proud of our community for achieving the Tartan Challenge,” said Director of Athletics Josh Centor. “We had a few donors with the passion and vision to support the Challenge with their lead gifts, and I am grateful for their leadership. Each and every dollar raised from the Challenge will directly support and enhance student experience at Carnegie Mellon.”
Student giving was a significant part of the Challenge, as 106 current student-athletes made gifts to invest in their own experience between January 15 and February 15. The student participation numbers continue the leadership from the Student-Athlete Advisory Council, which achieved 100% giving in the fall. During the current fiscal year, nearly 300 student-athletes have made gifts to the athletics program.
In addition, 126 alumni made gifts during the Tartan Challenge, taking the opportunity to recall their own time as Tartans.
"Successful fundraising provides additional resources to enhance the experience for our student-athletes,” said Don Michel, member and president of the Tartan Athletics Club Board of Directors. “Just like they do (or did) in the classroom and on the playing field, our students and alumni rose to the challenge, helping us to exceed the goal. I truly appreciate the generosity and support of those that participated in the Tartan Challenge."
The Tartan Challenge has helped propel a record year for Carnegie Mellon Athletics annual giving. To date, 756 individuals have supported the athletics department, marking the first time the department has ever surpassed the 700 donor total in a single year.