Elizabeth City, N.C. – Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) recently received the Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL) 2024 Giving Day Award in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) category for innovative use of the ScaleFunder online giving platform, making it the university's most successful Giving Day in six years.
Through eye-catching graphics and engaging language, ECSU attracted over 400 donors, raising $167,000 and surpassing the institution's $150,000 goal.
RNL, a leading partner in institutional fundraising, designed the ScaleFunder platform to assist institutions in their crowdfunding efforts. ECSU made creative use of this collaboration and customized its online giving campaign through direct mail and email solicitations from this established fundraising outlet. This strategy enabled ECSU to effectively engage alumni and other key constituents to make gifts in support of the university.
The award was presented to Johnyelle Lee, senior director of advancement services, during the RNL National Conference held July 23 in Dallas, Texas.
"I was excited that I had the opportunity to attend the conference to represent the outstanding work of our small but mighty team in University Advancement,” Lee said.
The announcement was made during the Givey Awards session in the HBCU category, celebrating an HBCU that exemplified innovative design and overall success. Reflecting on the achievement, Lee expressed her team's delight in receiving the award. “Winning this award is reflective of our team's collaboration, diligence, and zeal in ensuring that we remain committed to the advancement and future sustainability of our beloved institution," she said.
ECSU's success in the HBCU category underscores the university's commitment to innovative fundraising practices and dedication to supporting the institution's future. The recognition from RNL celebrates ECSU's achievements and sets a benchmark for other institutions striving to enhance their fundraising efforts.
Donors wishing to contribute to ECSU can visit Vikings Forward to donate, with additional giving options detailed here.