Apr 07, 2026
St. Bonaventure University will host its annual Athletics Giving Day on Thursday, April 16, a 24-hour fundraising initiative dedicated to supporting more than 400 NCAA Division I and nearly 500 club student-athletes.
Athletics Giving Day is an opportunity for alumni, parents, and fans to come together and make a direct impact on the success of St. Bonaventure athletics. Gifts made during the day will support critical needs such as nutrition, travel, training equipment, and the overall student-athlete experience, both on and off the field.
“Giving Day is about rallying all of Bona Nation to support our incredible student-athletes,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Bob Beretta. “Every gift helps provide the resources necessary to compete at the highest level, while assisting the athletic department to achieve our mission of transforming lives through a student-athlete experience rooted in excellence, leadership and service. We are grateful for every contribution to the Bona Athletic Fund, no matter the size of the gift.”
Supporters can choose to give to their favorite team or make an unrestricted gift to the Bonnies Athletic Fund, which provides flexible support across all athletic programs. Unrestricted gifts are especially impactful, allowing the department to address its most immediate needs and opportunities.
With nearly 500 students participating, SBU has 18 club sport teams, many of which have had tremendous success on the regional and national level.
“The ability to compete against other colleges is especially meaningful for so many of our students,” said Rob DeFazio, dean of Students. “The success our teams have had in recent years is not only because of the support we receive from the university, but from donors who understand how important club sports are to the Bonaventure student experience.”
Throughout the day, donors will have the chance to maximize their impact through a series of matches and challenges, helping to unlock additional funds and drive participation across the Bona community.
In addition to making a gift, supporters are encouraged to become advocates by sharing Athletics Giving Day on social media, helping to expand the reach and impact of the campaign.
“Strong participation is key,” added CJ Pierce, director of Annual Giving. “Every donor helps unlock additional support and demonstrates the strength and pride of our Bonnies community.”
Early giving is now open, and all gifts made in advance will count toward April 16 totals. Visit here to learn more or make a gift.
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About the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, St. Bonaventure is a community committed to transforming the lives of its students inside and outside the classroom, inspiring in them a commitment to academic excellence and lifelong civic engagement. Out of 167 regional universities in the North, St. Bonaventure was ranked #8 for value and #19 overall by U.S. News and World Report (2025).