UGA holds 6th annual Thank a Donor Day
Written by Josh Mixon ’19
The University of Georgia held its 6th annual Thank a Donor Day on April 13, 2017 in Tate Plaza and a record number of students came out to show their gratitude. Students signed an oversized “thank you” card, designed their own “thank you” posters, and wrote more than 750 personal notes of gratitude at the event.
UGA would not be what it is today without the contributions of donors, and Thank a Donor Day is meant to remind students that, while each of their UGA experiences is unique, they are all impacted by the continued support from UGA’s alumni and friends.
“Just seeing how you give back to [UGA], that you give back to the students, is empowering,” said Student Government Association President Cameron Keen ’17, “It’s inspirational. We’re so grateful for what you do each and every day.”
Started in 2012, Thank a Donor Day has quickly become a tradition at UGA and is included in the Student Alumni Association’s G Book, the university’s official traditions handbook. At each celebration, students are encouraged to thank those donors who have enriched their experiences at UGA.
Helping students realize the effect that private donations have on their education is vital to the long-term success of the university – a statement that Jeff (BS ’78, MS ’80) and Sydney (BSHE ’79) Shellebarger can attest to. The Shellebargers choose to give to their alma mater to both honor the impact the university had on them and to aid in its continued success.
“I always wanted to give back to the university,” Jeff says. “We owe a deep debt of gratitude to the professors, departments and the university, and we will enjoy watching the university continue to grow and hope that our gifts will help in that success.”
