In a video message she filmed following Giving Day 2021 (seen by clicking the arrow on the image to the left), Chico State Director of Athletics Anita Barker said this: "We are so lucky to have all of our friends, alumni and family step up every time we ask."
It's a striking statement. "EVERY TIME we ask." And, it is true. And, we are grateful. We do not take it for granted.
This week left us all dumbstruck. First, our Giving Day record was smashed. Then, our goal was eclipsed. Finally, our goal was more than doubled! Going in, our hope was that your generosity would provide a great boost of encouragement to the student-athletes who have inspired us during this difficult year through their academic excellence, thoughtfulness, and a steadfast commitment to Chico State. They've shown great character.
You've encouraged them and you've encouraged all of us.
"I am overwhelmed by the record-breaking response to Giving Day this year," said Barker. "Just when we all needed a boost in morale, the Wildcat Family stepped up in a big way and we are so grateful. The efforts of our student-athletes, coaches and alumni to get the message out, and the response of over 900 donors, is just another shining example of the strength of the Wildcat Family bond. On behalf of all of the current staff and student-athletes, a heartfelt thank you for your generosity and support."
As of 11:30 a.m. Friday, nearly 1,000 members of our Wildcat Family have donated an astounding $178,479.31 across 14 different programs. The department's previous Giving Day donations record was $78,036. The record number of donors was 561. This year's total as of Friday morning was 950.
The link remains active through tonight for those who have not yet been able to give.
"This week is a great illustration of the impact Chico State and this athletic department has had on so many, and in return, the impact our Wildcat Family continues to have on our current student-athletes," said Athletics Director of Development Rob Talley. "The strength of the Wildcat Family was displayed in record numbers and we appreciate the support of so many. The most impressive number is the 950 donors supporting our 14 programs. Thank you for your engagement, your energy and your continued passion for Chico State Athletics."
All 13 athletics programs exceeded their goal. Only the strength and conditioning needs more help to get over the hump.
Donate to the team of your choice via the links below. (Donation totals as of 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 5.)
- Baseball (Goal: $10,00 / Donations: $22,875)
- Softball (Goal: $5,000 / Donations: $9,600)
- Men's Basketball (Goal: $7,500 / Donations $11,495)
- Women's Basketball (Goal: $7,500 / Donations $8,975)
- Men's Cross Country (Goal: $7,500 / Donations $11,775.57)
- Women's Cross Country (Goal: $7,500 / Donations $8,987.50)
- Men's Golf (Goal: $5,000 / Donations $12,395.12)
- Women's Golf (Goal: $3,000 / Donations $4,050.12)
- Men's Soccer (Goal: $10,000 / Donations $21,945)
- Women's Soccer (Goal: $7,500 / Donations $12,311)
- Men's Track and Field (Goal: $5,000 / Donations $8,390)
- Women's Track and Field (Goal: $5,000 / Donations $8,915)
- Volleyball (Goal: $2,500 / Donations $7,230)
- Strength & Conditioning (Goal: $2,000 / Donations $1,363)
We've found inspiration in our student-athletes' resolve, leadership, and record-breaking academic successes during this shutdown of collegiate competition. Driven to succeed despite the disappointment, our Wildcats proved themselves champions where they could—through academic excellence, inspirational statements, and a steadfast commitment to Chico State.
Predictably, these student-athletes are eager to get back to dominating in their sport in 2021–22. Your big-heartedness allows us provide them with the resources they need to achieve their bold athletic goals and academic objectives. Delivering an unrivaled student-athlete experience is our priority, and your generosity makes it possible.
Thank you, once again, for your faithful support, Wildcat Family!
