Biola University is hosting its first-ever online giving challenge — #BiolaTen10. For 24 hours, starting at 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 10, Biola alumni will be encouraged to give online toward student scholarships, as well as share a photo or post that captures their love for Biola on social media. All posts will be tracked with the hashtag, #BiolaTen10. The event will be held completely online at biola.edu/Ten10 and on .

BiolaTen10 is an innovative way for the Biola community at large to make a collective impact on the financial challenges faced by students today.

Student affordability is one of the highest priorities of the university.  Each dollar given through #BiolaTen10 saves Biola students three dollars in interest and principal over the typical life of a student loan, allowing them to pursue their vocation without the heavy burden of debt.

“Alumni giving demonstrates a sustained culture of Christian stewardship and has a direct impact on Biola mission — equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ,” said Adam Morris, vice president of university advancement.

For two years in a row, Biola has experienced a record year of donations. In the 2012–13 year, $30.3 million were given to the university, funding such areas as student scholarships, faculty research, science and athletics programs, enhanced technology, the and the . The $30.3 million raised this past year represented $12.2 million in current gifts and $18.1 million in deferred gifts. There were eight gifts of more than $1 million, and the 10 largest gifts totalled $20 million.

"We are overwhelmed by God abundant provision toward the mission of Biola University this past year,” said Morris. “Thousands have made gifts year after year after year. Their ongoing support is proof of the love they have for Biola work and the fact that 91Ƭns do indeed give back.”

The 17 percent increase in gifts from last year record-setting year was aided in part by a rise in alumni giving, said Morris. Last year there were 6,469 gifts made by alumni, up from 6,242 the previous year.  

The #BiolaTen10 giving challenge aims to increase alumni giving participation.

“The uptick in donations is crucial as Biola strives to carry out its aspirations to keep Biola affordable for all students,” said Morris.

 

Written by Grace Delmar. For more information, contact Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Specialist, at 562.777.4061 or jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.