After a decade of successful GivingSPOONday campaigns, the Spoon River College Foundation is introducing a new tradition designed to celebrate the College’s history while investing in its future.
On Thursday, Oct. 15, the Foundation will host its first-ever Founders’ Day, a community-wide day of giving and celebration commemorating the legacy of Spoon River College. The date was chosen to coincide with the College’s Founding, as Spoon River College was established on Oct. 17, 1959.
For the past 10 years, GivingSPOONday has united alumni, employees, donors, and community members in support of Spoon River College students. The annual campaign has generated thousands of dollars to provide scholarships, emergency assistance, innovation grants, and other programs that help students overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational goals.
While the name is changing, the mission remains the same.
“GivingSPOONday has become one of our most successful fundraising events over the last decade,” said Michelle Howe, Interim Director of the Spoon River College Foundation. “As we looked ahead to the future, we wanted to create an event that not only inspires giving but also celebrates the history and impact of Spoon River College. Founders’ Day is an opportunity for everyone who has been part of the College’s story to come together and support today’s students.”
The Foundation expects Founders’ Day to become an annual tradition that brings together alumni, current and retired faculty and staff, students, local businesses, and community members to recognize the College’s more than 65 years of service to west-central Illinois.
Throughout the day, supporters will have opportunities to participate in giving challenges, hear stories from students and alumni, reconnect with the College, and make gifts that directly impact student success. Funds raised during Founders’ Day will support scholarships, emergency student assistance, academic programs, and the Foundation’s greatest areas of need.
Since opening its doors in 1959, Spoon River College has transformed the lives of thousands of students by providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. The Foundation hopes Founders’ Day will not only honor that legacy but also inspire continued investment in the College’s future.
“Every student has a story, and every donor has the opportunity to be part of that story,” Howe said. “Whether someone graduated from Spoon River College decades ago, works at the College today, or simply believes in the value of education, Founders’ Day is a chance to celebrate what Spoon River College has meant to our communities while helping ensure it continues to change lives for generations to come.”
The Spoon River College Foundation invites everyone with a connection to the College to participate in Founders’ Day on Oct. 15. Additional details about the celebration, giving opportunities, and special events planned throughout the day will be announced in the coming weeks.