Student Philanthropy Month, now in its fifth consecutive year, gives students opportunities throughout March to better understand philanthropy and its impact on the university, the community and beyond.
UC Merced Alumni Relations, in partnership with the UC Merced Student Alumni Association, is spearheading the campuswide initiative. The monthlong program introduces students to ways philanthropy extends beyond financial giving by highlighting leadership, service, gratitude and engagement. Each week centers on one of those themes through events and opportunities intended to encourage participation and connection across campus.
“Student Philanthropy Month is about redefining what philanthropy means for our students,” said Gabrielle Orduna (’17), alumni relations and events specialist and Student Alumni Association adviser. “It’s not just about financial contributions but about showing up for your community in meaningful ways. We want students to understand that philanthropy can take many forms, such as leading with purpose, serving others, sharing their talents and expressing gratitude.”
The month kicked off with Dinner for Champvocates, an evening of dialogue, networking and a Q&A with alumni who work in the nonprofit sector. Students gained insights into how philanthropy can align with their personal and professional goals.
Mileidi Castillo, who graduated from UC Merced in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a minor in Spanish, was one of the panelists. She now works as a case manager and outreach coordinator for Project Sentinel, an organization focused on housing education and homelessness prevention. She said returning to campus to speak with students is important because it allows her to share her perspective and help others navigate life after graduation.
“Once I started college and I got more involved with internships and extracurricular activities, I learned that it was a passion I had to help others,” Castillo said. “It feels very rewarding to be able to help people in need and to have the answers for somebody seeking solutions to their problems.”
Organizers said the evening was intended to help students recognize how alumni support, volunteerism and campus involvement contribute to sustaining programs and opportunities at UC Merced.
“When students connect with alumni who were once in their shoes, they begin to see the ripple effect of involvement,” Orduna said. “They learn how organizations sustain meaningful work, and they discover how their own skills and passions can create impact.”
There are several other opportunities to participate in Student Philanthropy Month:
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Bobcats Give Back: Day of Service
March 14 | Lake Yosemite | 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Check-in begins at 9 a.m.
Students, alumni, faculty and staff are invited to volunteer their time to clean and maintain Lake Yosemite, a place often enjoyed by the campus community.
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Game Night
March 19 | California Room | 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Student organizations will compete for the chance to earn bonus support for their projects during Game Night. Teams will face off in a series of challenges designed to test a range of skills, all for the opportunity to secure additional funding and claim the top prize for their organization.
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Student-led Fundraising
March 1-31| Giving Campaign
All featured student organization projects highlighted during Student Philanthropy Month will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $500 each, through support from the UC Merced Alumni Association Journey Fund.
Third-year biological sciences major Carylli Agrabio said Student Philanthropy Month reflects the role student organizations play in shaping campus life.
“Clubs and organizations make up the strong sense of community that we have here on campus,” Agrabio said. “Student Philanthropy Month promotes a culture of inclusivity to get involved and continue building a sense of belonging.”
Agrabio said she values events that help students connect with one another and strengthen campus relationships.
“I love to see organizations on campus put on events that bring students in who may not have otherwise felt a connection to their peers on campus,” she said. “It’s a cycle of support.”
To participate in the Day of Service, visit the event registration page.
To support featured student projects, visit the Student Philanthropy Month giving page.
