Elizabeth City, N.C.— Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is rallying Vikings near and far to support its ninth Annual Day of Giving Thursday, April 24. Early giving is already underway, offering alums and supporters an early opportunity to make a meaningful impact.   

The Day of Giving is a 24-hour fundraising event designed to fuel scholarships, enhance student programs and support the next generation of leaders. This annual tradition is hosted through vikingsgive.ecsu.edu and unites the Viking family under a shared mission: building a stronger ECSU.     

"At ECSU, we are proud of the tremendous growth and achievements that our institution has experienced, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of our alumni, donors, legislators, community and friends," said Interim Chancellor Catherine Edmonds.    

Why Give?     

ECSU is rising. The university continues to earn national recognition as one of the top historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and a leader in aviation, education, business, STEM fields and the arts. ECSU is the only four-year aviation science program in North Carolina and recently announced plans to expand its drone training and air traffic control programs. Its signature academic offerings continue to attract high-achieving students from across the country.     

In Just the Past Year:     

  • ECSU students competed in national competitions like "Moguls in the Making" and earned internships with major organizations including NASA, Ally Financial and the Charlotte FC.    
  • The university was selected as a new cohort in the Denyce Graves Foundation's HBCU Shared Voice Program, spotlighting the talent of ECSU's performing arts students on a national stage.    
  • ECSU graduates have pursued graduate degrees at institutions like NC A&T and secured careers in renewable energy, professional sports management and more.  
  • ECSU was ranked as one of U.S. News & World Report's Top 10 Public HBCUs in the nation, affirming its commitment to academic excellence, affordability and student success.    

"This is more than just a fundraiser—it's a celebration of Viking pride and the power of collective giving," said Kevin J. Wade, vice chancellor for student affairs and interim vice chancellor for university advancement. "When you give, you're sowing into good ground—investing in a university that is growing, thriving and transforming lives."     

These milestones and many more, are made possible through the support of donors who believe in ECSU's mission and momentum.    

Edmonds added, "The ECSU Annual Day of Giving is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when the Viking family comes together to support the future of our students. This year, as we celebrate our ninth Day of Giving, let's continue to build upon our rich legacy of Viking excellence and further empower the next generation of leaders."    

How to Get Involved     

Supporters are encouraged to make a gift of any size at vikingsgive.ecsu.edu, share their support using the hashtag #VikingsGive, and encourage others to join in. Each contribution goes directly toward programs that prepare ECSU students to lead, serve and succeed.   

To learn more or ask questions, call 252-335-3225.     

This April, show the world what Viking generosity looks like—and help ECSU continue to soar.    

Contact:   

Office of University Advancement   

Elizabeth City State University   

Phone: 252-335-3225   

Website: vikingsgive.ecsu.edu     

About Elizabeth City State University    

Elizabeth City State University provides students with a high-quality, affordable education. A constituent member of the University of North Carolina System, ECSU develops courageous, resilient, and empowered leaders through excellent student-centered, experiential learning. ECSU offers baccalaureate, professional, and master's degrees across a wide variety of disciplines. Come to Discover. Leave to Conquer. Visit www.ecsu.edu