From the Nominator

At John Jay College of Criminal Justice, nearly 75% of our students are from minority backgrounds, 47% are first-generation, and more than half are from households earning less than $30,000 a year. Our students pursue a justice-based education, many in public service careers, so they can be agents of change in an increasingly diverse America. Two years ago, the college revamped its Annual Day of Giving to focus exclusively on raising student emergency funds to keep students on track to stay in college despite hardships. To build awareness of need, the 2019 campaign was launched on World Hunger Day and ended December 31. The day itself was promoted in “Hounds Square,” a student gathering spot, with free food from neighborhood vendors, a $45,000 in-kind gift of food vouchers, and inspiring entertainment by students and faculty. By Dec. 31, more than 100 volunteers and 444 donors raised nearly $160,000, an annual increase of 18%, 26%, and 53% respectively. Social media views on four platforms increased by 178%. The Annual Day of Giving at John Jay is more than a fundraising campaign. It is a celebration of the diversity and values of our community. It is justice-based philanthropy, where helping one another with respect and compassion puts food, housing, and college completion within reach.

From the Judges

Outstanding video and social media content. Concise and compelling. Utilized a cross functional team to devise and execute campaign and gained the support of the president and board. Nice infographic demonstrating need. Impressive social media engagement results—clicks and views increased 178%!