UW’s Day of the Badger raises over $2 million

Annual giving celebration draws donations from around the world
UW’s Day of the Badger raises over $2 million
Published: Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:41 PM CDT

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - Day of the Badger, the University of Wisconsin’s annual giving celebration, took over campus Wednesday.

Alumni, students and friends were asked to pay it forward by donating to a UW program or department of their choice. Donors can choose from more than 150 areas across the university.

UW says the total has topped $2 million, with the money going to programs that support students.

“Day of the Badger really showed us how much people care about the UW, which is so inspiring,” said Nicole Weir, associate director of annual giving. “We see gifts coming from every corner of the world. From on campus, everyone gets involved, and I love seeing the thousands and thousands of gifts that pour in.”

Organizers say every dollar amount, big or small, keeps UW programs going for both current and future Badgers.

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