The University of Oklahoma broke its fundraising record for the fiscal year ending June 30, celebrating $352 million in gifts. The Sooner family also set a record for fundraising in a single day, raising more than $30 million during April’s Giving Day 2025. 

Giving Day supporters from 50 states and 21 countries helped to fund scholarships, clubs, programs, faculty and departments across the university. Nearly 700 of those were first-time donors and we asked a few why they chose to participate in Giving Day 2025. A clear theme emerged: When Sooners witness all of the good happening at OU, they are proud to support it.

Laura Moon, assistant director of the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

Supported: Department of Cell Biology General Support Fund and Sam Noble Museum Native American Language Youth Fair Support & Operations Fund 

“Working at the Sam Noble Museum, I see firsthand the transformative impact our exhibits have on visitors of all ages. That’s why I support it personally, because I believe in the museum’s mission and the difference it makes every single day.

“Giving Day is such a great opportunity to see the collective power of our community in action. I was inspired by how many people from all areas of OU come together to support programs that matter to them. It felt energizing and affirming to be a part of that movement.”

David Allen, director of International Student Services in the OU Office of Global Engagement 

Supported: Office of Global Engagement Development Fund and Student Affairs Development Fund

“In my capacity as director of International Student Services, I know first-hand just how much good work the Office of Global Engagement is doing for the OU international community here on campus.

“Every day, I see brilliant young men and women coming from all corners of the globe studying hard here at OU and making this campus a better place.”

Ava Jackson, OU sophomore criminology major

Supported: President's Community Scholars Fund 

“As a member of PCS and a first-time donor during OU Giving Day, I was proud to give back to a community that has given so much to its students and alumni. Contributing felt meaningful, knowing that even a small gift could support scholarships, programs, faculty and departments.”

Keisha McNeill, Edmond, Okla.

Supported: Pride of Oklahoma Fund 

“It has been our daughter’s longtime dream to be able to march with The Pride of Oklahoma, and this fall, that dream will be a reality. Our donation was just a small token of the appreciation we have for the family-like atmosphere we have experienced through the whole process of auditions, celebrations like Admitted Student Day, and orientations. We are so thrilled to be part of the OU family!”