Grateful Bobcats (GB) is a yearlong, student engagement program that fosters a culture of philanthropy at Texas State University (TXST). With a 43% first-generation undergraduate population, TXST students often arrive on campus unaware of how private support touches their daily experience. An effort involving multiple campus offices, GB addresses this gap by meeting students where they are, through fun, low-barrier activities that translate philanthropy into immediate, student-centered actions of gratitude. Launched during 2025 Philanthropy Week, GB continued throughout the academic year. Across our San Marcos and Round Rock campuses, students participated in gamified reflections, peer-to-alumni “happy mail,” and thank-you banner signings. In its inaugural year, GB engaged nearly 1,400 students and drove traffic to our newly launched Student Philanthropy website. Most importantly, the initiative sparked conversations that helped students recognize that philanthropy includes time, talent, advocacy, and financial support. By shifting students from passive recipients to active contributors, Grateful Bobcats establishes the foundation for future alumni and student giving at TXST.
From the Judges
This initiative's use of data gathering, particularly the coin voting, was very creative! The judges were struck by the collaboration and execution that went into this program.
