UW-River Falls students enjoy a day on campus with friends. UWRF photo
 

UWRF reignites Giving Days with new energy and expanded focus
 

March 18, 2025 – The University of Wisconsin-River Falls is launching its annual Giving Days fundraiser with renewed energy and an evolution of its fundraising efforts.

As part of this revitalization, the university is introducing the UWRF Impact Fund, a new name for the unrestricted giving fund formerly known as the Falcon Annual Fund that provides critical flexibility to support the campus where it is needed most.

"The launch of the UWRF Impact Fund represents more than just a name change; it reflects our deepened commitment to making an immediate and meaningful difference for our students, faculty and campus initiatives," said Rick Foy, UWRF assistant chancellor for university advancement. "By providing flexible resources, this fund ensures we can respond to emerging needs and opportunities, strengthening the Falcon community for years to come."

Giving Days, set for Thursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4, will focus on raising funds for key areas that enhance student experiences and advance the university’s mission. This year’s priority funds include:

• UWRF Impact Fund – A flexible, unrestricted fund that allows the university to respond to its most pressing needs and opportunities.
• UWRF Athletics – Supporting student-athletes and athletic programs that promote teamwork, leadership and school spirit.
• Student Emergency Fund – Providing financial relief to students facing unexpected hardships.
• Three College Funds for Excellence – Strengthening each of UWRF’s three colleges to ensure continued excellence in academics, research and student development.
• Sustainability Initiatives – Advancing green initiatives and campus-wide sustainability efforts to foster an environmentally responsible future.

This year’s Giving Days also marks another transition, with Mandy Jeppesen joining the University Advancement team as the new annual giving manager. Jeppesen, who arrived in late fall 2024, brings fresh enthusiasm and strategic leadership to university fundraising efforts.

“I am thrilled to be part of this incredible community and to help shape the future of giving at UWRF,” Jeppesen said. “The generosity of our alumni, faculty, staff and friends has a profound impact on students’ experiences, and I’m eager to continue fostering that support.”

Giving Days remains UWRF’s largest annual fundraising effort, and the university is aiming to surpass last year’s milestone of more than $100,000 in donations. Private contributions have become increasingly vital in supporting research, scholarships, student programs, faculty development and other university initiatives, particularly as public institutions face tighter budgets.

In addition to direct donations, community partners are playing an important role in Giving Days 2025. This year, from March 15 to April 30, Junior’s Restaurant and Tap will donate $5 to the UWRF Impact Fund for every basket of cheese curds sold, providing a delicious way for alumni, students and the local community to contribute to UWRF’s mission while enjoying a Wisconsin favorite.

“We encourage our donors to give to the areas they are most passionate about,” Jeppesen said. “Every dollar makes a difference in shaping the future of UWRF and the lives of our students.”

Donors can make their contributions online, via mail or in person at the UWRF Foundation Office.

For more information on Giving Days and to contribute to the success of the event, visit uwrf.edu/university-advancement/giving-day.

UWRF plays a vital role in the region, contributing to economic growth, innovation and student success. By investing in UWRF, donors are investing in the future of the university.