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Wear Black, Give Back: Empowering the Future of CPACS at UNO

durango mascot standing in front of cpacs with giving day information.

In anticipation of the upcoming "Wear Black, Give Back: Day of Giving," the College of Public Affairs and Community Service at University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is buzzing with excitement. For 24 hours beginning noon on Tuesday, October 8, UNO Mavericks are preparing for a 24-hour fundraising journey with the goal of making a significant impact on student scholarships that will help our Mavericks across the finish line with the degree completion.

Last year, Maverick supporters donated a record-setting $761,285 to support UNO and CPACS earned a well-deserved second place finish on the leaderboard raising an impressive $157,642. During the 24-hour day of giving, 4,967 gifts were made, surpassing the goal of 4,000 gifts.

This year, the campus goal is 5,000 donor gifts of $5 or more in 24 hours! CPACS has a goal of 425 donors. The 2024 "Wear Black, Give Back" campaign has ignited a collective spirit in the hearts of students, faculty, staff, and alumni. It presents an opportunity to unite and work towards a common goal, making a meaningful difference in the lives of UNO students and the causes that matter most.

"Wear Black, Give Back" is not just a call for financial contributions, it's an invitation to be part of transformative change. Generous donations during this event will directly impact scholarships, providing educational opportunities and crucial financial support to CPACS students.

Dr. Gaylene Armstrong, dean of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, is championing this initiative, underscoring the importance of this day of giving for the college and its mission. “‘Wear Black, Give Back’ is more than just a fundraising event—it's a testament to the power of our UNO community," Armstrong stated. "This day is an opportunity for us to come together and invest in the future of our students, our programs, and our mission. The support we receive during ‘Wear Black, Give Back’ directly impacts the lives of our students and strengthens the foundation of excellence that defines UNO. Every gift, no matter the size, helps to create opportunities, fuel innovation, and ensure that our Mavericks have the resources they need to succeed.”

Every gift, no matter the size, helps to create opportunities, fuel innovation, and ensure that our Mavericks have the resources they need to succeed.”

 Dr. Gaylene Armstrong, Dean, College of Public Affairs and Community Service

The ripple effects of this year's "Wear Black, Give Back" will resonate across the College of Public Affairs and Community Service at UNO. The transformative power of our collective effort and the unwavering spirit of UNO Mavericks will be on full display. With scholarships funded, research opportunities expanded, and inspirational speakers on the horizon, the future will shine even brighter for CPACS students and the communities they are committed to serving.

The excitement is palpable, and the future is promising. "Wear Black, Give Back" isn't just a day of giving; it's a movement, a collective drive toward creating a brighter future for all. UNO Mavericks are ready to wear black with pride, united by a common purpose – to make a real, lasting difference.