BELMONT, N.C. -- Belmont Abbey's Giving Tuesday fundraising efforts surpassed a new benchmark, raising over $370,000 for the athletic department, Vice President and Director of Athletics Stephen Miss announced today. In addition, the department had a record number of donors, topping 2600.

"Once again, our alumni, donors, students, parents, coaches, staff, and friends stepped up and blew us away with their generosity and passion. To date, Crusader Nation has contributed the equivalent of more than $1,000 a day for the entire coming year to enhance our students' experience. When also taking into account additional pledges— expected in January due to tax considerations — and matching gifts, achieving our overall goal of $400,000 is clearly within reach." Miss said.

Starting in November and culminating on National Giving Day, December 2, the ninth annual day of philanthropy saw everyone involved in Athletics come together to inspire the Crusader Community in supporting the endeavors towards Educating Champions: Body, Mind, Soul.
 
Through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social networks, each program was able to directly connect with family, friends, and alumni. Additionally, email power hours and letters were sent to express interests and motivations for the upcoming year. Funds raised went completely toward each program's needs and goals for the upcoming year. The tennis, bowling, men's lacrosse, men's soccer and women's soccer programs had exceptional results in raising funds.

To kick off the campaign on December 1, the athletic department, students, coaches and the entire athletic Administrative Team joined together to participate in a day of  "Giving BAC". The morning started with the Coach Bill Hodge Remembrance Run, honoring the former Cross Country and Track and Field Head Coach, who passed away in 2010. 

Organized and coordinated by the current teams, the run covered a loop around the beautiful campus and included a time of reflection and prayer. While athletes, coaches, and admin raced or walked the route, doughnuts, coffee, and hot chocolate were being set-up to welcome everyone back into the warmth of the Student Commons.
 
Later, care packages including a note of positivity or holiday cheer, were assembled, providing an assortment of items for those less fortunate. At the end of the morning, over 400 packages were delivered to those in need.

In what has become an annual tradition, Head Women's Lacrosse Coach Molly Kopp and the Women's Lacrosse program spearheaded the efforts of the #HashtagLunchBag participation.