FAYETTE, IOWA (March 3, 2026) — Upper Iowa University will celebrate its tenth annual Giving Days on Wednesday, March 25, and Thursday, March 26, 2026. This milestone event invites alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends of Upper Iowa University to come together in support of current and future Peacock students.
Adding to the excitement, National Peacock Day falls on March 25, making Giving Days the perfect opportunity to show UIU pride while investing in the University's mission and student success.
Since its inception, Giving Days has raised more than $1 million to support scholarships, campus improvements, academic programs, and emerging needs across the University. The collective generosity of the Peacock community continues to create meaningful opportunities for students at every stage of their educational journey. For its tenth anniversary, Upper Iowa University has set an ambitious goal of raising $175,000 during the 48-hour Giving Days.
This year, supporters are encouraged to make an impact by contributing to areas that matter most to them, including:
- UIU Excellence Fund
- Garbee Hall's Peacock Lounge
- Des Moines Center Scholarship Fund
- UIU Scholarship Fund
- Athletic Training
- Military Family Fund
- High School Campus Visit Fund
- ExcEL Scholars
- Study Abroad
Donors may direct their gift to any UIU designation or choose to divide their support among multiple areas.
Every gift - whether $5 or $5,000 — strengthens the University and demonstrates the power of the Peacock family working together.
Giving Day Challenges Multiply the Impact
To build excitement and maximize generosity, several special challenges will amplify donor support during the two-day event:
Trustees for Tomorrow — Board of Trustees Challenge | $15,500 Match
Once the UIU community raises $15,500 for the UIU Excellence Fund, the Board of Trustees will match those gifts dollar-for-dollar-unlocking an additional $15,500 to directly support student success.
The UIU Excellence Drive — President's Council Challenge | $5,200
Unlock When 100 donors make a gift during Giving Days, $5,200 in President's Council leadership support will be unlocked to benefit key university initiatives, including the Des Moines Center Scholarship Fund and the UIU Excellence Fund.
Peacocks Powering Excellence — Allan ('92) and Kristin Bevans Challenge | $2,500
Unlock When 150 gifts are made during Giving Days, a $2,500 contribution from the Bevans will be unlocked to further advance Upper Iowa University's mission and student-centered priorities.
The ExcEL Momentum Challenge — $4,000 Impact for Future Leaders | Tanner Thompson ('18)
When fifteen gifts are made to the ExcEL Scholar Fund, a $4,000 contribution from Tanner Thompson ('18) will be unlocked to support the next generation of ExcEL Scholars and future leaders.
In addition to making a gift, supporters can participate in Giving Days by:
- Following the UIU Alumni & Friends Facebook page and other official UIU social-media channels for challenge updates and progress reports;
- Sharing favorite UIU memories and photos on social media; and
- Encouraging classmates, colleagues, and friends to join in supporting the University.
Giving Days highlights the lasting impact of philanthropy at UIU and the shared commitment to empowering future generations of students.
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to offering undergraduate- and graduate-degree programs to approximately 5,700 students, both nationally and internationally. Located in Fayette, Iowa, the university extends its reach beyond its main campus to educational centers across the US, demonstrating its role as a recognized innovator in providing accredited, affordable, and quality academic programs. Upper Iowa University prides itself on its flexible, multiple-delivery systems, which include online and self-paced degree options, catering to the varied needs of its student body.
With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, Upper Iowa University is committed to empowering students by providing an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Here, diverse perspectives are valued, and academic excellence is not just a goal but a standard. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and professions.
