Stronger together

How do you describe a member of UD’s Front Porch Society? Beyond the obvious eyes, nose and mouth, these donors have big hearts and smart heads that understand how consistent giving — of any amount — helps the University of Dayton respond to the signs of the times and educate the whole person. How else would you describe them?

1 — LOYAL. Not only do these donors celebrate their Front Porch Society status by giving for three consecutive fiscal years, but they keep giving long after. Of those who became Front Porch Society members during the We Soar campaign thus far, 72.5% continue to give. And the front porch is both deep and wide; 191 donors have given to UD for 30 or more years in a row, while 3,765 are relatively new, having given three to five years consecutively (so far).

2 — JUBILANT. Just in case you’re looking for an excuse for a porch party, this fall UD eclipsed its participation goal for the We Soar campaign by welcoming more than 19,250 new donors who gave three or more fiscal years in a row. The biggest day to celebrate new members is during One Day, One Dayton, with 1,394 new members inducted during annual giving days held since 2020.

3 — GENEROUS. The We Soar campaign is about people supporting our students and faculty through giving, engagement and volunteerism. (See the campaign’s ongoing progress on the campaign rollout). Collectively, Front Porch members have donated $431,026,459 to the University during their lifetimes, supporting UD’s mission to link learning and scholarship with leadership and service.

4 — WELCOMING. It’s no surprise the majority of Front Porch Society members — 70% — are alumni. (After all, Flyers have a thing for porches.) But now joining them in the fun is the fastest growing group — parents. Parents currently make up 14% of the Front Porch Society, often giving because they see the impact of a University of Dayton education on their children. Add in donors who are current students, faculty, staff and friends, and you have champions for a culture of philanthropy that will benefit Flyers through future generations.