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STAGiving Day 2026 Raises Record $4.1 Million

A statue of a rearing stag with antlers on Fairfield University campus, a sign at its base reads, "This area is brought to you by the generosity of others," with a red ribbon.
By John Mendez

The Fairfield University community came together on March 25 for its annual day of giving, inspiring more than 4,300 donors and supporting 140+ funds across campus.

A Celebration of Generosity

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the Fairfield University community once again came together for STAGiving Day—a 24-hour celebration of generosity that unites Stags around the world in support of today’s students and tomorrow’s opportunities.

Now in its 12th year, STAGiving Day has become one of Fairfield’s most anticipated traditions, bringing together alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, students, and friends to support the programs and experiences that make a Fairfield education transformative.

Across campus, the day was filled with energy and Stag spirit: students searched for mystery scavenger hunt boxes and took rides to class in Fairfield-themed trivia golf carts, volunteers distributed coffee and treats, and faculty and staff gathered for lunch the Oak Room. These moments of community helped highlight the spirit behind the day—that when Stags come together, the impact is extraordinary.

Beyond campus, thousands of Fairfield community members participated online and from afar, supporting the causes that matter most to them.

 

By the Numbers

4.1

Million Dollars Raised

4,385

Inspired Donors

140

Funds Supported Across Campus

Additionaly, during STAGiving Day 2026, the community unlocked more than $2 million from 43 challenge and matching funds across the University making it the most successful STAGiving day to date.

Community-Driven Impact

“STAGiving Day is a powerful reflection of what makes Fairfield so special—our community,” said Geri Derbyshire, vice president for University Advancement. “When alumni, parents, students, and friends come together in this way, the impact is immediate and meaningful, fueling scholarships, strengthening programs, and creating opportunities for our students to thrive. It’s a remarkable demonstration of the momentum we can build together as One Fairfield.”

STAGiving Day is powered not only by donors, but also by a passionate network of volunteers and advocates who help spread the word and inspire participation. Their enthusiasm helped amplify the reach of STAGiving Day and build momentum throughout the day.

An Alumnus Perspective on Giving Back

“I met some of my closest friends in the dorms and classrooms, people who challenged me, supported me through tough times, and celebrated every success with me,” said Joseph DeMarzo ’05. “Whether it was participating in club events, grabbing a meal in the student center, or simply walking the paths together, those experiences taught me the value of community, resilience, and living with purpose—values rooted in Fairfield’s Jesuit tradition.”

Giving back has been incredibly meaningful because I want today’s students to have the same opportunities for transformative friendships and personal growth that I had.”

- Joseph DeMarzo ’05

“Giving back has been incredibly meaningful because I want today’s students to have the same opportunities for transformative friendships and personal growth that I had,” he continued. “Every gift helps keep that magic alive through scholarships, programs, and campus life that bring people together.”

So many of us carry stories of how experiences at Fairfield shaped our futures—and those stories reflect the heart of STAGiving Day. As the Fairfield community continues to grow and thrive, STAGiving Day remains a powerful reminder of what’s possible when Stags come together in support of the University’s mission.

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