SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Santa Clara University's 13th annual Day of Giving is set for Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of Bronco supporters everywhere, Santa Clara Athletics led all Santa Clara University departments with more than 1,900 gifts, contributing over $1,000,000 toward the University's Day of Giving total. Across campus, the Santa Clara community came together in extraordinary fashion, generating nearly $6 million in just 24 hours from more than 5,700 gifts spanning 46 states and 20 countries.
The funds raised supported hundreds of student-centered initiatives across the University, including Bronco Athletics programs that rely on the Day of Giving to help provide a championship-level experience for Santa Clara's student-athletes.
Building on that momentum, Santa Clara Athletics is once again rallying the Bronco community to participate in this year's Day of Giving. More than 20 challenge gifts totaling over $200,000 have already been secured—with additional challenges continuing to be added—creating opportunities for supporters to unlock additional funding through their participation.
Each Bronco program has identified fundraising priorities that directly impact the student-athlete experience, from team travel and training resources to leadership development and competitive opportunities.
"Day of Giving is one of the most powerful demonstrations of what makes Santa Clara Athletics special," said
Heather M. Owen, Director of Athletics. "When our alumni, families, and supporters come together to invest in our programs, it sends a clear message to our coaches and student-athletes that the Bronco community believes in their pursuit of excellence. That collective commitment helps fuel the exciting momentum we are building across our department and positions our programs for continued success."
Last year's Day of Giving saw strong engagement across Bronco programs. The top five programs by dollars raised were Women's Rowing ($90,733), Men's Basketball ($85,695), Men's Golf ($77,295), Beach Volleyball ($73,070), and Men's Rowing ($67,190). Leading the way in participation were Men's Water Polo (191 gifts), Women's Water Polo (181 gifts), Softball (179 gifts), Beach Volleyball (146 gifts), and Women's Soccer (122 gifts).
Supporters can help unlock the more than $200,000 in available challenge gifts and make an immediate impact on the experience of Bronco student-athletes.
For more information about how your gift can support your favorite program, follow Santa Clara Athletics and individual team social media channels in the days leading up to April 8, or visit the Santa Clara University Day of Giving website starting on April 1.