Ball State’s giving day received three gold Circle of Excellence Awards in the Special Events/Online Fundraising, Flash Campaigns/Giving Day Campaigns, and Annual Regular Giving Campaigns (More Than 25 Staff) categories in 2023. Judges were impressed by “exceptional efforts, which resulted in raising an astounding $1 million in just one day.” But even more than the amount raised, judges noted, “What truly sets this achievement apart is the remarkable unity and engagement fostered among the Ball State community. The success of One Ball State Day is a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication to a common cause, and the unwavering hard work of all involved.” Here, we invited the university foundation’s Associate Vice President of Engagement and Strategy to share the story of this innovative day of giving.

In launching One Ball State Day in 2019, we set what we thought to be an achievable goal: raise 1,918 gifts in one day, honoring the year of the university’s founding. Not only did we meet that goal, but we surpassed it to the tune of more than 4,100 gifts. And we’ve never looked back.

OBSD was born out of a desire to create a singular, extraordinary day dedicated to giving back to Ball State University. The Ball State Foundation recognized the need for an organized and energetic approach to fundraising, one that could involve the entire Ball State community, inspire philanthropy, and educate students about private giving.

A core committee was formed in 2018 and OBSD launched in April 2019. The committee is composed of staff from the annual giving, donor relations, advancement services, engagement, and digital communications areas of the foundation. The team is known for taking chances and is encouraged to dream.