Presidential Priorities

Ten years ago, we had an idea: dedicate one day of the year to an all-out blitz of giving for student organizations, academic programs, scholarships, learning experiences, student opportunities, and more. Any gift, of any amount, would make an impact, and we’d get the entire campus involved, letting students lead the ask for areas that were meaningful to them. That first year, we raised $352,992 for our students. Each year since, more and more of our supporters have joined us, raising a collective $12,718,420 for students at Bowling Green over the last decade.

One Day has become an annual day of giving that students look forward to, connecting directly with our alumni and supporters in furthering their student experiences and learning opportunities. As alumni, faculty, staff and supporters of public higher education, your generosity creates incredible momentum and impact. This year, we are highlighting three funds in support of the student experience and learning opportunities at Bowling Green State University:

Falcon Marching Band Experiential Learning Fund

On January 1, 2027, the Falcon Marching Band will march in the Rose Parade, one of the most visible and prestigious stages in the world. By 2027, the Falcon Marching Band is expected to reach 500 members, making it one of the largest university marching bands in the nation. This invitation is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our students. Your support ensures that every band member, regardless of financial circumstance, has the chance to have this student experience. The total cost of the trip is approximately $3,500 per student, and your gift directly reduces that cost for all members of the band.

Pay It Forward Scholars Fund

The Pay It Forward Scholars supports undergraduate students nearing graduation who experience an unanticipated life event which results in a significant financial need that may prevent them from completing their degree. A unique and entrepreneurial program, scholarship recipients are asked to contribute to its perpetuity by paying it forward to future students at Bowling Green. The scholarship supports recipients and fosters an appreciation and understanding of the responsibility to pay it forward.

Thompson Achiever Scholarship Match Fund

Robert ’55, ’06 (Hon.) and Ellen ’54, ’06 (Hon.) Thompson created the Thompson Working Families Scholarship program to help high-achieving students at Bowling Green overcome financial barriers to earn their college degree. Their generosity has changed countless lives, providing students with the support they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. For every dollar given by Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, Bowling Green must match it, doubling the impact of your gift. A gift today to the Thompson Achiever Scholarship Match Fund is a gift that will create generational impact.

Thank you for your support of Bowling Green, a university nationally recognized for its student experience and learning opportunities. We hope you’ll join us by giving today.

Ay Ziggy Zoomba!

Rodney K. Rogers, Ph.D.

President