‘One Day for UK’ is today!
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 24, 2025) — The University of Kentucky’s seventh annual “One Day for UK” has officially begun. This 24-hour giving celebration invites alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends from around the world to support the college, program or cause at UK that means the most to them. “One Day for UK” launched at midnight and runs through 11:59 p.m. tonight, April 24.
“One Day for UK is all about Wildcats coming together — cheering each other on, having a little fun and making a big impact,” said Jake Lemon, UK vice president for philanthropy and alumni engagement. “Every gift, no matter the size, is a show of support for the university we love. When we give, we’re not just donating — we’re proving that the Wildcat spirit runs deep and strong.”
This year’s theme, “Ev’ry Wildcat Star Will Shine,” is inspired by UK’s fight song and reflects the powerful, collective strength of the Wildcat community.
“When Wildcats come together to show their pride and commitment to the university, every student, faculty member and alum has the opportunity to shine brighter,” Lemon said.
Since its inception in 2019, “One Day for UK” has raised more than $12.5 million to support initiatives across campus from student success and groundbreaking research to health care advancements, alumni outreach and athletic programs. Each year, the campaign grows in reach, engaging more donors and expanding its impact.
Visit onedayforuk.com for a full list of participating colleges, programs and causes, and to track the campaign’s progress throughout the day.
On-campus events
The UK Office of Philanthropy is hosting events across campus today. Students, faculty, staff and the campus community can learn more about “One Day for UK” and collect exclusive commemorative items:
- Gatton Student Center, Second Floor | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Alumni Commons | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
UK Dining gives back
UK Dining is giving students the opportunity to donate flex dollars for meal swipes by simply swiping their UK ID to support fellow students in need.
- Champions Kitchen | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Fresh Food Company at The 90 | 5-8 p.m.
For every $5 donated in flex dollars, UK Dining will match the gift to cover the cost of one meal swipe ($12.98).
Get involved
To make a gift, see real-time results or share your support, visit the “One Day for UK” website at onedayforuk.com and follow #OneDayforUK on social media.
About One Day for UK
“One Day for UK” is the University of Kentucky’s 24-hour online giving day. On April 24, Big Blue Nation will come together to support the colleges, programs and causes they love at UK. Join a tradition of generosity that brightens the path for Wildcats of all generations, ensuring that “Ev’ry Wildcat Star Will Shine.”
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.