More than $2 million raised for immediate needs
MADISON, WI (April 15, 2026) — During the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association’s seventh Day of the Badger event, April 14-15, more than $2 million was raised to help UW-Madison remain a world-class educational institution. Gifts of every size added up, with donors supporting more than 100 causes across campus — from scholarships and student emergency funds to research and the arts.
“Day of the Badger is a celebration of everything that makes the Badger community so special,” said Betsy Popelka Massnick, director of annual giving at the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association. “Seeing alumni and friends come together — many giving for the very first time — to invest in students, research, and the causes they love most is incredibly moving. These gifts will make a real difference at UW-Madison for years to come.”
This year’s total includes more than $950,000 in matching gifts, challenges, and bonus bucks unlocked by generous donors, amplifying the impact of every contribution made during the event.
2026 totals (preliminary final as of 5pm):
· Amount raised: $2,163,759
· Gifts: 7,180
· Donors: 4,539
For more information, visit dayofthebadger.org.
