On April 10 more than 80 Razorbacks supported two funds from the Division of Student Affairs during the inaugural “One Day, One U of A” giving day, raising more than $10,000 for Meal Plan Scholarships and UA Cares Student Emergency Fund! This money will have a direct impact on students in need.
In just 24 hours, the U of A community came together in an extraordinary show of support, raising more than $180,000 through 823 gifts for 21 projects. Sixteen projects received full funding, and more than half of the projects exceeded their goals. The funds will support a wide variety of programs, initiatives and big ideas that will shape lives and positively influence the U of A community, the state of Arkansas and the world.
The Division of Student Affairs exceeded goals for both funds. The UA Cares Student Emergency Fund received $5,096 or 145% of the fundraising goal from 49 donors. The Student Meal Plan Scholarships fund received $5,878 or 195% of the fundraising goal from 34 donors.
“This was a great day, and we were excited to highlight two of the many efforts our division has to help relieve student’s financial stress, to be able to focus on progressing towards graduation and securing post-graduation plans,” said Jeremy Battjes, vice chancellor for Student Affairs. “We continue to refine our development strategy, visit benefactors, identify those who may have an interest, and were happy to have had a really successful One Day, One U of A giving day. Thanks to all who gave or even just visited our project pages to learn more about the UA Cares Emergency Fund and Meal Plan Scholarship.”
John Berry and his partner Richard Anderson gave the initial donation to start the Meal Plan Scholarship several years ago. They continue to support this fund and many others on our campus. Berry was excited about surpassing the goal.
“Wow,” Berry exclaimed, “almost 200 percent of the goal reached!”
Andrea Allen, director of UA Cares, is thankful and knows how much good these funds will do for students in need.
“UA Cares is grateful for all the support the UA Cares Emergency Fund received for One Day, One U of A! The support provided will help ensure that many students are able to continue their academic journey and provide almost immediate financial relief,” Allen said. “We know students may face many barriers during their student tenure and this initiative will help reduce or remove at least one of those barriers.”
Loria Oliver, director of development for Student Affairs, was very pleased by the generous support of our many donors.
“Donations to the Student Meal Scholarship and Student Emergency Fund do more than meet immediate needs,” Oliver said. “They break down the barriers that can stand between a student and their dreams. This kind of support creates a ripple effect that lasts a lifetime. Surpassing our goal is more than a milestone, it’s a powerful reminder that we are part of a community that believes in lifting others through generosity. It reaffirms my belief in the extraordinary impact we can make when we come together.”
Plans are already underway for the 2026 One Day, One U of A. Join us next year in continuing to empower our students, support innovative projects and create lasting change. If you missed One Day, One U of A, it’s never too late (or early) to make a gift to support students and their success. Explore funds and make a gift today.