For one day only, Thursday, April 2, 2026, you can spark change that lasts!
Green Bay, WI –On Thursday, April 2, 2026, UW-Green Bay is rallying the region to Rise with them. The University’s annual Giving Day is back – fueled by the resilient spirit that defines every Phoenix. For 24 hours, alumni, faculty, staff and community supporters have the opportunity to shape the future of more than 11,500 students and thousands of future Phoenix who are learning, growing and preparing to lead across the region.
Thanks to the generous support of the UW-Green Bay Council of Trustees, all Giving Day donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, doubling the impact and accelerating student success. Whether it’s $1 or $10,000, every gift moves students forward.
A Tradition of Rising: 60 Years of Impact Across Northeast Wisconsin
Since its beginning, UW-Green Bay has been a place defined by bold thinking and purpose-driven education, where learning meets regional need and future-focused programs prepare the workforce of tomorrow. Giving Day continues that mission. Every gift strengthens academic opportunity, expands holistic support services and deepens the community partnerships that open doors for students across UW-Green Bay’s 16-county footprint.
Maybe it’s the talent ignited on the stage during The Weidner’s slate of performances; maybe it’s the discovery within the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, or the Cofrin School of Business shaping future-ready leaders; maybe it’s the grit and determination of the Green Bay Phoenix Athletics teams. Whatever it is – whatever brilliance is making an impact – now is the time to support UW-Green Bay with a gift.
For 60 years, UW‑Green Bay learners have reshaped the region. More than 50,000 graduates—nurses, teachers, engineers, artists, business leaders and innovators—now fuel the economic and cultural strength of Northeast Wisconsin. With 74% of alumni living and working within the region, the impact of a single gift reverberates far beyond campus.
Supporting Every Riser: Scholarships That Change Lives and Futures
That ripple effect is felt personally by current student Dee DeBenedetto, class of 2027 Psychology major. As a working mom of four and a member of the Menominee Reservation community, she is carving a new future for herself and her family. After growing up in foster care and helping raise her younger brothers, she is now preparing to become a school psychologist so she can support children facing challenges like her own.
UW-Green Bay’s online Psychology program allows Dee to balance school, work and family. Scholarship support makes that path possible. “I’m truly grateful for this investment in my future,” said DeBenedetto. “My scholarship allows me to focus more fully on my studies and move closer to my goal, a career where I can make a positive impact on students’ lives.”
Celebrate and support students now through April 2, 2026, by visiting the Giving Day website. With focus areas in each college, The Weidner, Phoenix Athletics, the Fund for Excellence and Need-Based Scholarships, donors can choose which area to impact with a gift.
About UW-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,519 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 101,000 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With campus locations in Green Bay, Manitowoc, Sheboygan and a theatre in Marinette, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
