A total of 1,931 donors helped raise $2.9 million, marking another powerful demonstration of the Cardinal spirit and a fifth consecutive year of record-breaking engagement across all 50 states.

Timed to energize UofL’s Homecoming week, Raise Some L spanned 1,798 minutes, in honor of the university’s founding year, and celebrated the many ways philanthropy transforms lives across campus and beyond.

“Because of your generosity, we continue to move forward together,” said University of Louisville President Gerry Bradley. “Each gift, no matter the size, helps us create new opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, researchers, patients and the entire Cardinal community. We are deeply grateful to all who supported this effort.”

Throughout the day, supporters rallied behind their favorite programs, schools and causes, amplifying their impact through social media advocacy, challenges and matching gifts. The campaign also highlighted several major commitments and gifts that will have an immediate and lasting effect across the university, including:

• Anonymous – A transformational $500,000 commitment over the next five years to establish two Student Success Funds supporting undergraduate and medical students in financial need.
• Phoenix Controls – An in-kind gift valued at $382,258 to enhance the new Applied Engineering program with advanced technology and hands-on learning tools.
• SEW-EURODRIVE – An in-kind gift valued at $358,000 to further support the Applied Engineering program.
• Suraj and Rachel Alexander – A $100,000 gift establishing a Centennial Scholarship Fund within the J.B. Speed School of Engineering, along with a $50,000 planned gift to sustain the school’s mission.
• Autodesk – A $75,000 contribution in support of cutting-edge technologies for the Applied Engineering program.
• St. James Court Neighborhood Association – A renewed $74,375 commitment to benefit the Hite Art Institute, including a new scholarship honoring Bill Holladay, Jr.
• Lyle and Linda Graham – A $50,000 contribution to the Graham Student Philanthropy Endowed Fund and an additional $5,000 to the Graham Math Scholars Program.
• Anonymous Planned Gift – A $50,000 commitment to advance the J.B. Speed School of Engineering.
• Genentech, Inc. – A $43,421 gift to the School of Public Health & Information Sciences to support future health leaders.
• Dr. Paul Kelty – A $25,000 pledge to the Golden Alumni Scholarship at the Speed School of Engineering.
• Anonymous Gift – A $12,500 matching gift to expand resources for the UofL Writing, Editing, and Publishing Lab.

“Each year, the Cardinal community shows what’s possible when we come together with purpose,” said Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Jim Broschart. “These results reflect the power of collective generosity and the shared belief in UofL’s mission to make a difference in Louisville and around the world.”

While Raise Some L has concluded, there’s still time to make an impact. Gifts of any size continue to help strengthen programs and expand opportunities across the university. To learn more or contribute, visit .

This celebration of generosity spans 1,798 minutes, a tribute to UofL’s founding year, and invites Cardinals everywhere to come together in support of the university they love.

Timed to energize Homecoming week, Raise Some L rallies the Cardinal community around the initiatives, programs and people shaping UofL’s future.

“Your support of the UofL family ignites transformative opportunities for our students, patients and community. It empowers the next generation of Cardinals to reach their full potential,” said President Gerry Bradley. “We are building a brighter tomorrow and moving forward together.”

Recent Major Gifts and Commitments

This year’s Raise Some L celebration has already been bolstered by several significant gifts and commitments that will make an immediate and lasting impact across the University of Louisville. Highlights include:

• Anonymous –��Inspired by the legacy of two strong women who championed education and opportunity for themselves and their children, a gift of $500,000 to the University of Louisville was made by a family of first-generation immigrants who began their American journey with hope, determination, and a deep belief in the power of learning. This investment creates a safety net for students, helping cover essential needs like housing, food, and childcare, so they can focus on achieving their degrees and building brighter futures. Their story is one of perseverance, gratitude, and a shared belief that education transforms lives.

• Phoenix Controls – An in-kind gift valued at $382,258 to enhance the new program, providing state-of-the-art technology and resources for hands-on learning.

• SEW-EURODRIVE – An in-kind gift valued at $358,000 to support the program, providing state-of-the-art technology and resources for hands-on learning.
• Suraj and Rachel Alexander – A $100,000 gift establishing a new Centennial Scholarship fund within the to support student opportunity and innovation, complemented by a $50,000 planned gift to sustain and advance the Speed School’s mission for years to come.
• Autodesk – $75,000 in support of state-of-the-art technologies and resources for the J.B. Speed School’s program.
• St. James Court Neighborhood Association – A renewed commitment totaling $74,375 to benefit the , including the establishment of the St. James Court Neighborhood Association Scholarship Honoring Bill Holladay, Jr.,��to support students pursuing art and design.
• Lyle and Linda Graham – A $50,000 contribution to the Graham Student Philanthropy Endowed Fund and an additional $5,000 gift to the Graham Math Scholars Program, continuing their long-standing support for student engagement and success.
• Anonymous Planned Gift to the Speed School – A planned commitment valued at $50,000 to advance the mission and programs of the J.B. Speed School of Engineering.
• Genentech, Inc. –A gift of $43,421 to the . Genentech is a pioneering biotechnology company committed to innovation, equity, and health. This gift helps prepare the next generation of leaders to tackle the world’s most pressing health challenges.
• Dr. Paul Kelty – A $25,000 pledge to the Golden Alumni Scholarship at the J.B. Speed School of Engineering. (Securities transfer processed by Baird Financial.)
• Anonymous Gift – A $12,500 matching gift to the UofL Writing, Editing and Publishing Lab, expanding resources and opportunities for students in the program.

“Raise Some L helps keep UofL accessible and affordable, fuels breakthrough research, enhances medical care and drives our momentum as a leading metropolitan research university,” said Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Vice President Jim Broschart. “We are profoundly grateful to the alumni, faculty, staff and friends who answer the call year after year. Your generosity makes it all possible.”

To learn more, make a gift or become a Raise Some L advocate, visit .

Campus Events & Student Energy

The Student Organization for Alumni Relations (SOAR) and the Student Activities Board (SAB) will host Raise Some L block parties on the Belknap and HSC campuses on Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 12-2 p.m., featuring snacks, games, music and opportunities to get involved. Don’t miss the action at the campus quads and help spread the word using #RaiseSomeL on social media.

Last Year’s Impact

In 2024, more than 2,000 donors gave an incredible $5.4 million to support UofL, UofL Health and UofL Athletics. For the fourth consecutive year, Cardinal family members from all 50 states took part, showing the nation what it means to Raise Some L.

To see what else is happening during Homecoming week, visit

Beginning at 6:02 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, and continuing through midnight on Wednesday, Oct. 16, the University of Louisville’s annual day of giving – affectionately known as Raise Some L – will run for an inspiring 1,798 minutes in honor of UofL’s founding year. This unique fundraising event, strategically set during Homecoming week, unites the Cardinal community in support of initiatives that will shape a thriving future for all.

“Your support of the UofL family ignites transformative opportunities for our students, patients and community and empowers the next generation of Cardinals to reach their full potential,” said President Kim Schatzel. “Together, we are building a brighter tomorrow.”

Several major gifts have already been pledged in advance of the day, including:

• $1.5 million��gift from The Bufford Family Foundation/Susan and Randy Bufford to support the College of Business, including scholarships and personal success investments for student-athletes.
• $1.1 million��beneficiary designation from an anonymous alumnus in support of the J.B. Speed School of Engineering.
• $1 million��bequest from a loyal UofL supporter for the benefit of the Department of Biology.
• $150,000 gift from Strong Hold to support the new Speed School building.
• $125,000 from the Greater Louisville Medical Society Foundation to support scholarships for the School of Medicine
• $50,000 challenge gift from UofL Health to support the UofL Health Employee Emergency Fund.
• $25,000��memorial gift to support the Tung-ho Chen Endowed Graduate Student Scholarship from the Chen family.
• $13,000 in matching gifts from 1970’s alumni to support the Speed Golden Alumni Scholarship Endowment, the Medicine Class of 1971 Scholarship Endowment, and the 1970s Biology Graduate Student Endowment.
• $10,000 gift from the MW Fund to advance spinal cord injury research and provide patient assistance.

“Raise Some L is critical to keeping UofL accessible and affordable for students, fostering groundbreaking research and driving our growth as a leading metropolitan research university,” said Julie Dials, interim vice president for philanthropy and alumni engagement. “We are deeply grateful to our dedicated alumni, faculty, staff and friends who rise to the challenge each year. Your unwavering commitment makes all the difference.”

To amp up the excitement of the day, Alumni Relations and Annual Giving will host a Raise Some L block party in front of the Red Barn on the Belknap Campus and the Student Activities Board (SAB) will host one at the HSC Quad on the Health Sciences Center Campus. Stop by for snacks, activities, prizes and more.

Last year, Raise Some L set a record with 2,093 donors contributing $1.3 million. Every dollar raised immediately supports vital areas across campus and the community. For the third consecutive year, Cardinals from all 50 states united to paint the nation red.

To learn more about UofL’s annual day of giving and how to become an advocate, visit . And be sure to spread the excitement on social media by using #RaiseSomeL.

For a full list of what’s happening during UofL Homecoming week, visit .

UofL and UofL Health student, faculty and staff participants wore matching t-shirts during the Sept. 21 event to show support of the many heart health initiatives across the organizations.

“I am deeply humbled by the impact our students, staff, trainees, faculty and partners in health care,” said Jeffrey Bumpous, executive vice president for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine, “Giving both their time and money to this cause further proves the systemwide dedication to improving the future of health care, one step at a time.”

The funds received by the American Heart Association, which celebrates 100 years, work to provide CPR trainings and support research, medical breakthroughs and equitable heart health.

UofL Vice President of Community Engagement, Douglas Craddock, said the university is proud to be a partner with an organization paving the way for heart health through important work and groundbreaking research.

“I am incredibly proud to see the University of Louisville come together for such a vital cause,” Craddock said. “Our partnership with the American Heart Association grows stronger each year, and the success of events like the Kentuckiana Heart Walk highlights our shared commitment to advancing health and wellness in the Louisville community.”

Story by Tonya Augustine, UofL School of Medicine.

Beginning at 6:02 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 24, and continuing through midnight, Wednesday, Oct. 25, Raise Some L runs for 1,798 minutes in honor of UofL’s founding year. The 30-hour campaign, held during week, is a chance for the Cardinal community to support students, research and campus initiatives that help foster a better world.

“Your investment in UofL creates vibrant futures for our students and empowers the next generation of Cardinals to unleash their potential and build a brighter tomorrow,” said President Kim Schatzel.

Several sizable donations have been pledged in advance of the day including:

• $50,000 to benefit the HDR Foundation from an anonymous donor
• $50,000 to Brandeis School of Law LGBTQ Community Impact Scholarship by John Selent
• $50,000 challenge from UofL Health for the UofL Health Employee Emergency Fund
• $37,500 to create the UofL English Writing, Editing and Publishing Lab
• $25,000 to Whittenberg Construction Endowment by Whittenberg Construction
• $25,000 to create a scholarship within the School of Public Health & Information Sciences by Kim Mascaro

“UofL’s day of giving campaign helps keep the university affordable for students, provides opportunities for learning and discovery and ensures UofL’s progress as a major metropolitan research university,” said Brent Pieper, vice president for advancement. “We are grateful for the generous alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the Cardinal community who continue to rise to the occasion. Thank you for everything you do to support our mission.”

Interested donors can make a gift at . In addition to online giving, in-person donations may be made at the Raise Some L Belknap Campus and Health Sciences Center campus headquarters from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 25. To learn more about Raise Some L or become an advocate, visit .

The Student Organization for Alumni Relations will be stationed at Raise Some L headquarters at the quads of both campuses with snacks, activities and additional information. Share the word about Raise Some L by using #RaiseSomeL.

For information on other UofL Homecoming week events, visit .

• Inflammation and Microbiome
• Bioinformatics��
• Medical informatics
• Immunogenomics��
• Pandemic preparedness��
• Nutrition and health
• Improved health outcomes
• Cybersecurity��
• Energy storage��
• Nano-enabled medicine and healthcare

These are the ingredients that make up raiseRED, the University of Louisville’s largest student-run philanthropy that has raised over $4.1 million for pediatric cancer and blood disorders research and patient support since 2013.

Celebrating its 10^th anniversary this year, raiseRED will be held Friday-Saturday, Feb. 24-25, at the Swain Student Activities Center Ballroom.

raiseRED is a dance marathon that benefits UofL’s Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology and the Norton Children’s Cancer Institute outpatient clinic. Participants raise a minimum of $200 per person to participate, with many raising even more.

The event kicks off at 6 p.m., Friday, Feb. 24, and culminates with the big reveal of total dollars raised at the Community Celebration from 10:30 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Feb. 25.

In between, students will kick up their heels. To keep up their spirits – and help keep their eyes open – several events-within-the-event are held. Among them are:

• Buzz for the Cure: A long-standing raiseRED tradition, students pledge to shave their head, or do a major chop, during the dance marathon if they reach their fundraising goal.
• Angel Hour: The people in participants’ lives who have been impacted by cancer and blood disorders are recognized and remembered.��
• Mail Call: Letters of support from participants’ loved ones are read to cheer them on.
• Neon Silent Disco: The speaker system goes silent and participants wear headphones to dance to music only they can hear.
• And new this year: The Hypnotic Experience. Hypnotist ‘TG’ Rivers will tap participants to be hypnotized to entertain the crowd.

It’s the cause, however, of battling childhood cancer and blood disorders that is the core of the effort, said raiseRED Executive Director Valerie Tran, a senior majoring in industrial engineering.

“raiseRED is a year-long effort to help children with cancer and blood disorders in the Louisville area, and I’m so humbled to see the courage these kids show,” Tran said. “I know what we are doing and the funds we raise can make a difference in the lives of these children and their families every day.”

For information and to donate, visit the

The gift, from former Speed School alumni fellow Scott McReynolds ’86 and his wife Jennifer ’84, also represents the kickoff to Raise Some L, UofL’s annual day of giving.

Beginning at 6:02 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 18, and continuing through midnight, Wednesday, Oct. 19, Raise Some L runs for 1,798 minutes in honor of UofL’s founding year. The 30-hour drive, traditionally held during Homecoming Week, is a chance for the Cardinal Community to support students, research and campus initiatives that help build a better world.

The opportunities created by the gift will help underprivileged youth gain critical skills to tackle the world’s problems. The $450,000 donation will provide last dollar scholarships, tutoring and bridge programming, Robotics Research Fellowships within the Louisville Automation and Robotics Research Institute (LARRI), summer research experiences for Central High School students at LARRI and an immersive learning experience trip to Boston, Massachusetts, the hub of robotics research and innovation.

“Gifts like these are inspiring and life-changing,” Interim President Lori Stewart Gonzalez said. “This generous support and other funds raised during our annual day of giving will help fuel the success of our students, advance our research and innovation initiatives and improve our community.”

There have also been several sizable donations that have already been pledged in advance of the day including: ��

• Three gifts to the School of Medicine designated for research in the amounts of $1 million, $400,000 and $100,000 from anonymous donors
• $50,000 gift to the Community Band in the School of Music from an anonymous donor
• $33,675 gift to the Breonna Taylor Memorial Scholarship Endowment by Jill Whitten in memory of her parents Ann W. and Donald J. Roth
• $25,000 gift to establish the Karlynn BrintzenhofeSzoc “Scholars in Healthcare Social Work” Scholarship, funded by Ronald Z. Szoc and Karlynn BrintzenhofeSzoc
• $15,000 challenge match that will support various areas across the university by Hank and Rebecca Conn
• $10,000 gift to the UofL Health Brown Cancer Center by Jason Chesney
• $10,000 match gift for the LGBTQ Center by Steve Bass

“UofL’s Day of Giving Campaign is a great way to support the continued success of the Cardinal community by making a gift to an area that inspires you,” Interim Vice President for Advancement Julie Dials said. “This year’s Day of Giving is especially critical as we navigate challenging times to help create thriving futures for our students.”

Raise Some L 2022 begins at 6:02 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 18 and runs through midnight, Wednesday, Oct. 19. Interested participants can make a gift to any area of the university at .

In addition to online giving, in-person donations may be made at the Raise Some L Belknap Campus and Health Sciences Campus headquarters from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 19.

The Student Organization for Alumni Relations will be stationed at Raise Some L headquarters at the quads of both campuses with snacks, activities and additional information.�� Share the word about Raise Some L by using #RaiseSomeL.

For information on other UofL Homecoming Week events, please visit the .

Lewis answered questions about the incident for about 10 minutes after a staff senator at the meeting in Chao Auditorium texted him that senators were expressing their concerns about public safety on campus.

The chief said the message appeared on all university telephones in the late afternoon because of an IT error and had not originated with ULPD. ULPD was quickly alerted to the problem and, after confirming no threat existed, sent a text message via the RAVE warning system that the telephone message was sent in error.

Lewis said the evacuation message appeared to have originated from a campus telephone and IT was investigating the incident.

He added that ULPD was planning to hold a tabletop exercise with senior leadership to address public safety in an emergency. ������

Staff senators were also given an update on the state of the UofL Foundation’s investments by Keith Sherman, the foundation’s executive director and COO. Sherman used a PowerPoint, “Reforms Pave Way for a Sustainable Future,” to show how changes made since 2017 are helping to restore the university’s endowment after years of poor management.

He said the university’s endowment as of Dec. 31, 2019, totaled $637 million. Stricter spending rules have been imposed that will gradually replenish the endowment, he said.

“We don’t overspend,” Sherman said.

Sherman pointed out that the foundation is not responsible for fundraising – that falls to University Advancement – but noted that donors who had stopped honoring pledges are once again making payments. “Donors are getting more comfortable and realizing it really is a new day,” he said.

Staff Senate President John Smith said during his report that the Board of Trustees had approved new bylaws giving the university president veto power over the UofL Athletic Association board. The move will “give us a lot more institutional control,” Smith said.

The Bylaw Revision Committee presented its first reading and received comments.

Christopher Tillquist, anthropology associate professor, reported that Faculty Senate is looking into the issue of free speech on campus. He encouraged staff senators to read the university’s policy on speech and literature distribution, last revised in 2011.

More committee reports are . The next Staff Senate meeting is March 9 on the HSC campus.��

Established in 2013 by Alex and Tommy Gift in honor of their late mother, who passed away from breast cancer in 2010, the Gift Fund helps patients and their families enjoy life while facing a cancer diagnosis. For the past several years, the fund has provided Thanksgiving turkeys for patients at the UofL Brown Cancer Center.

To continue the tradition, the Gifts and former volleyball player Paige Sutton are sponsoring the tournament. Coed Quad Open Division play starts at 9 a.m. (check in at 8:15 a.m.). The Coed Sixes Division will start at about 2 p.m. (check in at 1:30 p.m.).��

Team registration fees of $300 go directly to the fund. A cash prize of $3,000 to be divided among winning and runner up teams has been donated by The Power Agency. To register a team or make a donation, go to the event’s .

Ward 426 on Baxter Ave., directly across the street from Baxter Jack’s, has once again agreed to donate a portion of all food and beverage sales throughout the day to the Gift Fund.

“Mary Jane taught us countless lessons throughout the course of her life. Stay Positive. Be thankful. Step away from it all,” Alex Gift said. “The fund can help do this by providing simple gifts to patients that could help improve their quality of life, even if it’s for a short period of time.”

The event has brought in more than $45,000 throughout six years.