Bulldogs come together during COVID-19 crisis
The University of Georgia virtually celebrated G-Day on Saturday, April 18, and Bulldogs around the country wore their red and black in a show of solidarity. UGA pride swelled as alumni set up at-home tailgates, posted photos and videos of their family, and once again cheered on the Dawgs in the 2019 UGA-Notre Dame game.
The day also marked the launch of the university’s #CallingAllDawgs alumni engagement campaign, a collective response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread effects it has had on communities near and far. As of April 20, nearly 1,000 donors have answered the call, raising over $250,000.
“Bulldogs need one another now more than ever,” said Meredith Gurley-Johnson, executive director of the Alumni Association. “It’s inspiring to see our family come together to make a difference for those hit hardest by this pandemic.”
This critical funding will support pressing initiatives like the UGA student emergency support, which is assisting students facing significant financial hardships due to the COVID-19 crisis. Support was also raised to fund faculty-led research dedicated to developing and testing a vaccine for the coronavirus and other deadly diseases. And many donors chose to support their affiliated schools, colleges, and departments, helping them continue to deliver their important missions — from educating future leaders to serving Georgia’s small businesses.
Additionally, many alumni and friends are choosing to give their time and expertise by signing up for the UGA Mentor Program. These virtual mentorships will provide critical career and life advice to students and new graduates at an especially tumultuous time.
The #CallingAllDawgs campaign magnifies UGA’s ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19. Students, faculty, staff and alumni continue to make a difference in a myriad of ways — from tutoring young learners across the state to providing meals to food-insecure senior citizens.
To stay up-to-date on how Bulldogs everywhere are committing to helping others during this crisis, visit alumni.uga.edu/covid-19. Or to show your support, learn how you can answer the call by giving your time, money or energy to the cause.
