On Friday, April 24, 2026, Spring Arbor University (SAU) celebrated its fourth Spring Arbor Give Day, culminating in another one-day giving record of over $194,000 given by 283 donors. These donations will go toward the Arbor Fund, the university’s annual scholarship fund.

The Arbor Fund enhances the SAU student experience and provides crucial financial assistance to current students through scholarships, as well as providing funding for cross cultural studies experiences, spiritual life programming and resources, leadership development through the Core program, extracurricular student experiences, technology and facility updates, and more.

This year, donors had the opportunity to “adopt a squirrel” through the Squirrel Initiative by contributing $18.73 to the Arbor Fund. Growing in popularity over the last two Give Days, the initiative highlights one of campus’ most familiar sights, with squirrels symbolizing the spirit of generosity and new beginnings.

While videos and other media engaged alumni and community members on social media, the university plaza transformed into a vibrant community gathering space, with students enjoying the beautiful spring weather, learning about the philanthropic efforts at SAU, and enjoying yard games. Coffee, donuts, and bagels, courtesy of local establishments and the Student Government Association, were offered alongside Chick-Fil-A sandwiches with visits from the Chick-Fil-A cow and SAU’s mascot, Blue the Cougar. Milo’s Tea and a midday snack featuring President and Mrs. Ellis’ chex mix recipe added to the festive atmosphere.

Andrew Phelps, Associate Director of Annual Giving at SAU, emphasized the significance of the day: “Spring Arbor Give Day is more than just a day of fundraising, it is an opportunity to recognize the significance Spring Arbor University holds for our community and offers a way to give back, ensuring the transformative SAU experience remains accessible to future generations. It also allows us to share how this Christ-centered institution has impacted, and continues to impact, so many throughout its 150+ year history.”

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success on Spring Arbor Give Day. The university remains deeply appreciative of the ongoing support for the Arbor Fund, which plays a vital role in making a Christ-centered liberal arts education accessible to all students. For more information about Give Day, visit springarbor.edu/giveday.