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WIU will host its 10th annual Western Challenge Day of Giving on Thursday, April 24.
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Tenth Western Challenge Asks Alumni to "Give Purple. Give Gold. Give Back."

April 17, 2025

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University is excited to announce its 10th annual Western Challenge Day of Giving, scheduled for Thursday, April 24. This year's theme is "Give Purple. Give Gold. Give Back."

Tim Hallinan, director of Annual Giving for WIU's Division of Advancement and Alumni Relations, said the theme highlights the generosity of Leatherneck Nation during each Western Challenge and the commitment the University has to student success.

"The Western Challenge is a powerful reminder of what our friends and alumni can accomplish together in support of our students," Hallinan said. "Every gift makes a difference and moves WIU forward."

Since 2016, WIU has held an annual day of giving, garnering tremendous support from donors worldwide. Last year, 1,165 donors raised $432,198 for WIU's students, scholarships and University initiatives.

During the 24-hour giving event, alumni and friends are encouraged to direct their contributions to any area of WIU that resonates with their passions and philanthropic priorities while taking advantage of more than $150,000 in match and challenge funds contributed by WIU alumni, friends, faculty and staff.

The popular "Map Challenge" returns this year, thanks to a generous pair of alumni donors. If WIU receives at least one gift from all 50 states during the 24-hour event, $10,000 will be unlocked for scholarships.

An interactive map on the campaign page will track progress in real time with each state turning purple when a gift is made, visually showcasing the strength and unity of Leatherneck Nation from coast to coast in support of student success.

Gifts can be easily made online at wiu.edu/westernchallenge. Most major credit cards, bank transfers and mobile wallets, such as PayPal and Venmo, are accepted and this year, donors can seamlessly give through their donor-advised funds as well.

Those who prefer to contribute via phone can call 309-298-1861 now through 9 p.m. CST on Thursday, April 24.

To stay updated on the Western Challenge's progress, donors can follow the event on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter/X for real-time updates, donor tallies and exclusive content throughout the day.

To learn more about the Western Challenge Day of Giving, please visit wiu.edu/westernchallenge or contact the Western Challenge team at 309-298-1874 or email at westernchallenge@wiu.edu.

Posted By: Aaron Viner (AP-Viner@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing