KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee is rallying Vols for a 24-hour fundraising event aimed at raising $1.5 million to support of current and future students.
Since the first Big Orange Give event in 2013, UT alumni and donors have raised more than $15 million. The event starts Wednesday.
Big Orange Give is an opportunity for anyone who cares about UT to contribute directly to the areas they're most passionate about. The donations can go to anything from scholarships and academic programs to athletics and groundbreaking research.
Lillie Etta Lawson is a Human Development and Family Science major in the class of 2025 and first generation college student who has benefited from the giving program.
"I feel so supported by the generosity shown through Big Orange Give, especially as a first-generation college student at UT," Lillie Etta said. "Every contribution helps students like me pursue new learning opportunities, get involved in campus life, and take steps toward our dreams. I'm grateful for a community that believes in us and invests in our futures."
According to the university, donations to Big Orange Give can be designated to a wide variety of areas, allowing each donor to direct their gift to the specific campus priorities most important to them. Giving is simple and can be done online.
Big Orange Give is a 24-hour event that ends at midnight. No matter the size of your gift, you will receive a thank you video from a student. If you give more than $1,000, you will receive a custom video.