Grateful Gators Gather at the Plaza

Over 2,000 T-shirts. About as many popsicles. 275 large pizzas.

And, most important, more than 3,000 thank-you notes from grateful students.

Giving back is a Gator tradition. The third Grateful Gator Day event hit the Plaza of the Americas on March 14. Students gathered to celebrate the generosity of donors through writing thank-you cards and taking photos or recording video messages. Free T-shirts, pizza and popsicles were available for students participating.

Each year, Grateful Gator Day is an opportunity for students to personally thank donors for their generosity, while recognizing the importance of private giving, which makes every aspect of the student experience possible.

Impact of Private Giving:

• State funding accounts for only about 18 percent of the university’s annual budget. Without the support of our generous alumni, parents and friends, much of what has come to define the student experience would not be possible.
• Gifts of all sizes make a difference. Last year alone, gifts under $250 accounted for over $4.3 million in support for UF students, faculty and programs.
• More than 99,900 alumni and friends donated to UF in fiscal year 2017.

–Photos by Aaron Daye; Video by Brenton Richardson.