Concord Giving Day 2026 aims to ‘Power the Promise’

PRESS RELEASE

ATHENS, WV — Concord University’s power has always come from its people. On Sept. 24, the entire CU family will have the opportunity to put that power to work during Concord’s annual Giving Day, when we Power the Promise.

For 36 hours, alumni, students, faculty, staff, friends, communities and supporters will unite to power the promise of a Concord education — expanding access, fueling innovation and strengthening the experiences that help Mountain Lions succeed.

Power the promise of access by helping make a Concord education possible for more students. Gifts to scholarships help talented, motivated students choose Concord and give them the opportunity to make the most of their college experience. Every scholarship is an investment in a student’s opportunity to learn, grow, and build a future.

Power the promise of innovation by helping Concord give students the tools they need to succeed in a changing world. Today’s students need access to current technology, equipment, programs, and hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for careers where they’ll thrive tomorrow. Gifts to innovation help put better tools and bigger opportunities into the hands of Mountain Lions.

Power the promise of success by strengthening the Concord experience from the first day of college through graduation. Gifts to The Concord Fund provide flexibility to invest in university priorities that benefit students across campus and allow Concord to respond efficiently when new opportunities arise to make the student experience even stronger.

For Manager of Annual Giving Ashley Ward, the most rewarding aspect of the Giving Day campaign is seeing the huge impact it can have on Mountain Lions’ lives.

“One of the most meaningful parts of my work is having the opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of Concord students. This event is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared belief in our students and their future,” Ward said. “I am incredibly grateful to every person who chooses to give, share, encourage, and show up on Giving Day. It is an honor to be part of a community that cares so deeply about Concord and the students who call it home.”

Giving Day has been an annual tradition on The Campus Beautiful since 2019. Each year, it reminds us that Concord’s story is written not only by the students, faculty and staff who call this place home, but also by the generations of supporters who believe in what Concord makes possible.

The Concord University Foundation helps turn that belief into action. Through the generosity of people who love Concord, the Foundation provides critical support that helps the University create opportunities, strengthen programs, and invest in its students.

On Sept. 24, help Power the Promise. Every gift is an opportunity to move Concord forward and help the next generation of Mountain Lions reach higher, go farther, and achieve more.

Donations may be made online at giving.concord.edu/g/2026 or by mail at:

CU Foundation
PO Box 1405
Athens, WV 24712.