Day of Giving 2026: Rockford University Surpasses Goal for Clark Arts Center

Day of Giving 2026: Rockford University Surpasses Goal for Clark Arts Center

04/23/2026 4:17 pm

Each year, the Rockford University community comes together for Day of Giving, a special 24-hour event dedicated to raising funds for the spaces that shape life on campus.

This year's Day of Giving focused on the Clark Arts Center, home to the arts programming-a defining part of the University's academic tradition.

The Clark Arts Center serves as both an educational hub-where students expand their knowledge across visual, performing, and interdisciplinary arts-and a gathering place for our broader community.

Individuals and families from across the Rockford region come to the Clark Arts Center to attend ceremonies, performances, exhibitions, and so many other memorable experiences.

In honor of Clark Arts' role in bringing together the Rockford community, the University set an ambitious goal: to raise $40,000 in just 24 hours.

What followed was an incredible outpouring of support. From early donors and matching gifts to every individual who joined in their own way, the response was immediate and inspiring.

By midnight, $49,332 had been raised-exceeding the goal by 123%.

Gifts have continued to come in following Day of Giving, bringing the total to more than $51,000 raised for the Clark Arts Center.

A Special Thank You to Our Students

This year's Day of Giving wouldn't have been possible without the help of a few talented students who were willing to share their time and creative energy to support Rockford University.

• Anya Batbayar (Graphic Design major) was our talented graphic designer, dedicating many hours outside of her studies to create the vibrant visuals and branding for Day of Giving, as seen at the top of this post.
• Ethan Sullivan (Acting/Directing major) captured the energy of Clark Arts as our videographer, combining candid footage with inspiring storytelling. Click here to view Ethan's story.
• Richard Hart, President of the Art Club at Rockford University, also contributed in a special way. His artwork, Spillway, PA (2025) was featured on a commemorative magnet for Day of Giving. Anyone who donated had the opportunity to receive this piece of custom artwork, a reminder of the creativity and possibility that the Clark Arts Center helps foster every day.

As we reflect on this incredible show of generosity, our President, Dr. Patricia Lynott, has a message she would like to share with the community: