East Tennessee State University is starting a new chapter in its annual Day of Giving with the launch of Forever ETSU. Expanding from one day to a full week, this year’s initiative runs from April 21-27 and includes special events.

“Forever ETSU is more than just a fundraising event; it is a celebration of the lasting impact that ETSU has made on its students, alumni, faculty, staff and community,” said John King, interim vice president of Advancement and president/CEO of the ETSU Foundation. “The week is designed to honor the past, empower the present and build a brighter future for all those connected to ETSU.”

Throughout the week, donors are invited to support any ETSU fund(s) of their choosing, helping ensure that the university continues its mission of education, innovation and outreach. 

For the past seven years, ETSU has hosted a successful Day of Giving. This year, the university is expanding the event into a week of activities aimed at engaging a broader audience, both on campus and in the community.

“We are thrilled to expand this initiative into Forever ETSU, a week dedicated to showcasing the deep sense of pride and connection that exists between ETSU and its supporters,” said Desmond Pierce, executive director of Annual Giving. “This expanded format will allow us to involve more people and celebrate the many ways in which ETSU makes a difference.”

The week will be filled with five days of programming, each with its own unique focus:

  • Monday, April 21: Faculty and Staff Day – A day dedicated to increasing engagement and participation from ETSU faculty and staff.
  • Tuesday, April 22: Traditional Day of Giving – The hallmark of the initiative, where supporters can donate to the university’s various funds. Make your gift today.
  • Wednesday, April 23: 4-2-3 Day – A special day to express gratitude to community members, donors and local businesses. Students will be stationed across campus, writing thank-you notes in appreciation.
  • Thursday, April 24: Student Day – Highlighted by the Student Foundation Ambassadors, this day will also feature a graduation celebration for the Class of 2025.
  • Friday, April 25: Community Celebration – Topping off the week, Advancement will host a free community festival on the lawn of the Basler Center for Physical Activity from 5:30-9:30 p.m. The festival is open to the public. This event will include live music at 6 p.m. by Lucille Klement, bounce houses, yard games, an outdoor movie at 7:30 p.m. and more. There will also be food trucks and local vendors and businesses (including alumni-owned and -managed businesses) with items available for purchase.
  • Saturday-Sunday, April 26-27: Opportunities to give continue. 




For more information on how to get involved or to make a donation, visit www.etsu.edu/give.

East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.

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