GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College’s annual Match Day event continued its record-setting momentum with reaching a new milestone with 676 donors contributing $215,649 to support the institution. This year’s theme, “Match to the Future,” inspired the College’s community to break last year’s record of 670 donors and reaffirm its commitment to student success.
A key driver of this year’s success was the competitive spirit fostered by fundraising challenges. Members of fraternities, sororities, clubs, and organizations engaged in spirited rivalries to secure the top spot as the leading donating group. Greek-affiliated donors played a significant role, with 327 individuals contributing to the cause. Phi Theta Phi won the fraternity challenge for the most donors, while Zeta Tau Alpha won the sorority portion of the Greek challenge. Other fun challenges included 77 donors who gave a gift because their met their spouse at Thiel College. The College also tripled its goal for first-generation college student donors with 75. Athletes and former athletes also turned out in large numbers with 167 donors. Donors also spanned eight different decades.
“This year’s Match Day was an incredible demonstration of the generosity and commitment of our Thiel College community,” said David Mogle, Director of the Thiel Fund. “Breaking records for donor participation shows the dedication our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends have to supporting student success. Their generosity directly impacts the educational experiences of current and future Tomcats, and we are deeply grateful.”
Since its inception in 2014, Match Day has raised more than $2.1 million for the College, demonstrating the deep-rooted generosity of the Thiel community.
“The enthusiasm and generosity displayed during Match Day truly reflect the strong bonds within our Thiel community,” said Roberta Leonard, Vice President for College Advancement. “The level of participation from Greek organizations, athletic teams, and co-curricular groups speaks to the far-reaching impact of a Thiel education. These contributions ensure that our students continue to receive valuable opportunities both in and out of the classroom. We are incredibly thankful for the donors and alumni leaders whose support and matching challenges made this event such a success.”
Gifts raised during Match Day contribute to the Thiel Fund, which serves as the College’s largest source of unrestricted funds. The Thiel Fund supports areas of greatest need, including need-based scholarships, academic programming, athletics, and campus improvements. It also provides for unforeseen expenses, ensuring that students receive the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
Thiel College extends its gratitude, from donors to staff and faculty who not only helped put on the event but many of whom were donors, to all who participated in this year’s record-setting Match Day and looks forward to continued growth and generosity in the future, Leonard said.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.