The New Mexico State University Foundation launches its second-annual Founders Day, 1888 Minutes of Giving campaign at 9 a.m. April 22 and runs through 4:28 p.m. April 23. This 1,888-minute crowdfunding initiative supports 18 key funds selected by college deans and Foundation leadership to benefit students and essential NMSU programs, plus funds submitted by faculty and student organizations.
“For 31 hours and 28 minutes, NMSU alumni, parents, friends and Aggie supporters from all corners of the world will unite online to make a powerful impact,” said Sylvia Y. Acosta, CEO of the NMSU Foundation. “Every gift, no matter the size, helps fuel NMSU’s mission to empower students and create lasting change. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our supporters, whose contributions transform lives and make the world a better place.”
Launched in 2024 as part of Founders Day, honoring the establishment of Las Cruces College in 1888, now NMSU, this campaign celebrates the university’s visionaries and the people who continue to bring its land-grant mission to life. With a goal of $188,888, donors can support any fund, including featured programs such as Aggie Cupboard, Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México, Aggies Go Global and the Rodeo Team. Student and faculty organizations can also submit funds to be included in Founders Day through an online submission form at http://bit.ly/40GOZbq until March 31.
The NMSU Foundation will kick off the campaign with a parade at 10 a.m. April 22, beginning at Dove Hall and winding through campus to Corbett Center Student Union. With lively musical entertainment provided by Pete’s Outlaws, the parade will highlight the organizations supported by the campaign and honor the generosity of those who make it possible. Faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to join the festivities and celebrate the power of giving at NMSU. At Corbett Center, student organizations will host tables where attendees can connect with community members and share more about their work and mission.
Throughout the day, challenges allow donors to unlock bonus funds for their favorite programs and areas of support. Many employers offer matching programs that can double or triple a gift. Anyone can check the web portal throughout the campaign to see a running total of gifts made, donor locations, years of graduation and areas of impact.
NMSU faculty, staff and retirees can also leave a legacy by establishing a Cornerstone Endowment, an accessible way for individuals to create an endowed fund. Contributions can be made with a one-time gift, an annual donation or payroll deductions. Contact the NMSU Foundation development office at 575-201-9023 for assistance in setting up a Cornerstone Endowment.
The NMSU Foundation will wrap up the campaign with a reception from 3 to 5 p.m. April 23, where donors will count down the final hour and 28 minutes and celebrate the campaign’s success together with members of the NMSU community.
Starting today, contributors can visit https://www.givecampus.com/mymwej and begin making gifts immediately. For questions, call 575-201-9023 or email annualgiving@nmsufoundation.org.