Founders Day generates more than $1.28 million for Wichita State students and programs
Shocker Nation showed up in a big way for Founders Day 2026.
During Wichita State University’s annual 24-hour day of giving, 1,463+ donors contributed $1,286,000+ to support 240+ funds across campus. Because of the record number of gifts received, final totals remain subject to change as mail-in gifts continue to be processed.
“This year’s Founders Day was extraordinary,” says Telly McGaha, WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement president and CEO. “The generosity of Shocker Nation continues to inspire us. Every gift reflects a commitment to our students’ success and our belief in Wichita State’s future. We are grateful to everyone who came together to make this day such a remarkable success.”
Throughout the day, donors supported scholarships, student organizations, academic colleges, emergency assistance programs, study abroad opportunities and other initiatives that enrich the student experience.
One of the day’s most spirited competitions came through the annual Student Challenge, generously supported by Dr. Jamarco Clark. Student organizations rallied supporters to earn bonus funding through donor participation.
Preliminary results show Shocker Rowing leading with 139 donors, followed by The Sunflower with 117 and Shocker Racing Formula SAE with 104.
Support for Wichita State’s academic colleges was also strong. Based on current totals, the W. Frank Barton School of Business led all colleges with $80,771 raised, followed by Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with $70,361 and the College of Engineering with $56,475. Donors also contributed more than $35,700 to the College of Fine Arts, more than $22,500 to the College of Education and nearly $9,700 to the College of Health Professions.
Dozens of matching gifts and challenges from Wichita State alumni and friends helped donor support go even further.
“Founders Day is always special because it brings the entire Shocker community together in support of our students,” says Sam Anderson, WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement director of annual giving. “Seeing that generosity on display throughout the day was truly inspiring. Every gift helped create opportunities that will have a lasting impact on Wichita State students, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
The 2026 event surpassed the previous Founders Day record of $547,736 raised from 1,244 donors in 2025, making it the most successful Founders Day in Wichita State history.
