HWS News
24 February 2023 • Alums • Athletics Athletics Day of Donors is a Record-Breaking Success
Parents, alums and fans offer more than $1 million in support in a single day.
The 2023 Hobart and William Smith Athletics Day of Donors was a record-breaking success. The 24-hour event shattered the record for the most dollars raised in a single day as alums, parents and fans gave just over $1 million in support of the Statesmen and Herons.
"On behalf of everyone in Hobart and William Smith Athletics, thank you for the incredible generosity on Athletics Day of Donors," says Brian Miller, associate vice president and director of athletics and recreation. "The loyal support of the HWS community for our Herons and Statesmen will allow us to make meaningful enhancements to the student-athlete experience."
The fundraising total includes a challenge gift of $25,000 from Cynthia L. Caird L.H.D.'12, which provided bonus money to the top three Hobart and top three William Smith teams for the percentage over dollar goal met. The William Smith soccer team and the Hobart rowing team were the top finishers. On the William Smith side, volleyball and ice hockey finished second and third. Finishing second to Hobart rowing was golf, while strength and conditioning came in third.
The Caird donation also supported prizes to the top three teams by College with the most creative fundraising videos. Hobart football came in first, followed by hockey for second and soccer for third. William Smith soccer came in first, followed by volleyball for second and field hockey for third.
Additionally, the Caird Challenge awarded the top team by College for the most increased donor participation. William Smith swimming and diving and sports medicine won in this category.
"After a day like yesterday, it's hard to say who is more competitive, the current Statesmen and Herons or our passionate fan base that once again demonstrated its dedication to the Colleges," says Vice President for Advancement Bob O'Connor P'22, P'23. "The day also reconnects alumni and alumnae with memories of competition and lifelong friendships. We are deeply grateful to Cindy Caird, our coaching staffs, Brian and our SAA and Heron Society boards for their steadfast support."
