BVU Sets a Standard on International Beaver Day
Alumni and friends join BVU community in making contributions from across the country.
Buena Vista University observed its second annual celebration of International Beaver Day with its largest one-day giving effort ever. Some 270 BVU alumni and friends joined faculty and staff in contributing more than $86,000 for the Annual Fund, BVU Athletics’ programs, and other funds.
Gifts came from BVU graduates representing seven decades. Donations came in from nearly 20 states and Canada, prompting President Brian Lenzmeier to reflect, “It truly was an International Beaver Day celebration for us!”
President Lenzmeier started the day by appearing with Sioux City’s KTIV Morning Anchor Al Joens ’85, who donned an International Beaver Day t-shirt, then threw on a BVU cycling jersey during the segment. Joens said he’s excited to represent BVU on “School Jersey Day” during the 50th observance of RAGBRAI.
The on-air fun gave way to a variety of campus activities, ranging from a wing-eating contest to a public reception at Cru5h Dining in Siebens Forum as gifts and tributes came in. “Good luck Beavers,” wrote graduates Ben ’10 and Margo (Muhlbauer) ’10 Hansen. “Make your alumni and fans proud!”
“We thank everyone for their support on this great day, knowing how blessed we are to be serving a greater community that cares so deeply for Buena Vista University.”
President Brian Lenzmeier
Students penned thank you notes and recorded videos for donors while several alumni and friends created challenge and matching gifts that unlocked additional funds. To see more, or to participate in the success of this event, check out BVU's International Beaver Day page.
“We are incredibly grateful for our friends, faculty, staff, alumni, and students who all joined us on a truly remarkable day for Buena Vista University,” said Joan Canty, Vice President for Development. “It was rewarding to see our students write messages of gratitude for their professors, staff members, and coaches, the people these gifts touch on a daily basis. International Beaver Day is a time when we can really help students see firsthand how the generosity across the BVU community impacts their lives.”
Gifts to BVU’s Annual Fund support every aspect of student life, inside and outside the classroom. From funding scholarships and student internship experiences to enhancing the quality of BVU’s state-of-the-art educational, co-curricular, and residential spaces, the Annual Fund changes students’ lives. Benefactors also help BVU attract and retain faculty mentors who are leaders in the field, the very people who lead students into careers that help shape our communities in the future.
“We are delighted with the success we enjoyed on International Beaver Day, and yet, we know our important work must continue,” Lenzmeier concluded. “We thank everyone for their support on this great day, knowing how blessed we are to be serving a greater community that cares so deeply for Buena Vista University.”