For first time ever, Glow Big Red donors raise over $1 million

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln felt the love as Husker Nation came together in a record-setting way during the 2025 Glow Big Red — 24 Hours of Husker Giving.

Over 24 hours, 7,241 gifts were made, raising $1,022,896 to support priorities and causes across the university. It is the first time that the fundraising campaign has eclipsed $1 million. Both the number of gifts made and the amount donated set records for the seventh annual event. Supporters representing every state made a gift during Glow Big Red.

“Thank you, Huskers. Your generosity during Glow Big Red has filled our hearts and made a tremendous impact,” said Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett. “Because of you, we can continue to provide an exceptional education and opportunities for our students. Your contributions help ensure that a University of Nebraska–Lincoln education is affordable and achievable to every student.” 

Glow Big Red began at noon Feb. 12 and concluded at noon Feb. 13. The giving day raises funds for such things as scholarships, student organizations and Greek chapters, Nebraska Athletics and the university’s academic colleges. Alumni and donors committed more than $850,000 in challenge and matching funds to encourage others to give during Glow Big Red. Those funds were unlocked when certain giving goals were achieved.

The Black Masque Chapter of Mortar Board was one of the 142 student organizations to receive philanthropic support through Glow Big Red. Donor support unlocked a $1,000 challenge gift from an anonymous benefactor. Mortar Board, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary, is a national honor society that recognizes seniors for their academic achievements and service to the university community while providing opportunities for students’ continued leadership development.

Senior Naomi Delkamiller, the group’s social media chair, said the funds raised during Glow Big Red will support events put on by Mortar Board, including Ivy Day, Professor of the Month and the People Who Inspire Banquet. She expressed gratitude for donors’ support. 

“I would just say thank you, because this helps us continue what was started 120 years ago,” Delkamiller said. “These traditions that promote scholarship, leadership and service on campus are seen by people beyond our group. Even if they’re not involved, they know of Mortar Board and what we stand for.”

The College of Journalism and Mass Communications posted a video on Instagram featuring interviews with student journalists Ruth Bailey and Livia Ziskey, co-leads of the Nebraska News Service — part of the college’s Experience Lab.

The two students encouraged donors to support scholarships to prepare the next generation of storytellers, journalists and communicators.

“Scholarship support relieves some of the stress and burden about how I’m going to pay for my education or how I am going to balance school, work and life,” said Bailey, a journalism and political science major. “The scholarship has allowed me to focus on my education and getting real-world journalism experience.” 

Junior Brett Johnson of Portage, Wisconsin, is president of the Nebraska Curling Club. The club, which practices at the John Breslow Ice Hockey Center, seeks to promote a love of curling across Nebraska. The club participated in Glow Big Red to raise funds to travel to bonspiels at other Midwest universities. He said he enjoys competing with and getting to know other Husker students who share his passion for the sport.

“Curling is really big in Wisconsin,” he said. “I couldn’t imagine not doing it.”

Johnson, a software engineering major, said curling also provides a much-needed break from his studies. 

“For me, it’s certainly a great distraction,” he said. “It’s great to go hang out with people who have the same interests and not be overstressed about schoolwork.” 

In 2024, the Husker community raised $823,041 to expand opportunities for students. The giving day started in 2019 in recognition of the university’s 150th anniversary.