TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Sycamore Athletics raised $419,594 during Indiana State University's seventh annual Give to Blue Day on Wednesday, April 9. The department led all entities on campus in fundraising over the annual event and helped Indiana State raise a record $1,506,090 over the 24-hour giving period.
 
Sycamore Athletics continued its success on the fundraising front with a record 685 total donors contributing to various athletic department and team funds throughout the day.
 
"As my first Give to Blue Day ends, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who made this day unforgettable. Whether you participated in events on campus, shopped with our community partners, or donated from around the world, your support was deeply appreciated. The energy on campus and across the Wabash Valley was vibrant, and your generosity will help create transformative opportunities for our Sycamores by enhancing an already strong educational experience," said President Mike Godard. "Together, we've shown the power of the Sycamore spirit, and together, we'll continue to shape the future of Indiana State University." 
 
Highlighting the day's contributions included a $50,000 challenge from John and Marilyn Thyen and Mel Burks' $40,000 challenge in support of the Sycamore football program, while Mike and Amy Blackwell contributed to various athletic funds throughout the day. The Sycamores also put a focus fundraising for the John McNichols Memorial Track Project with key supporters contributing funds throughout the day.
 
"The generosity and passion of our Sycamore Athletics community continue to inspire," Director of Athletics Nathan Christensen said. "To see the University also shatter Give to Blue Day records in the process is a testament to the commitment of our alumni, parents, student-athletes, coaches, and supporters. The need for private financial contributions to Sycamore Athletics has never been greater, and it was incredible to see our community of supporters answer the call on Give to Blue Day. I'm grateful to each individual donor for their generosity and continued belief in what we are building as a program."
 
Various community partners throughout the Wabash Valley, many of which are alumni-owned businesses, participated in Give to Blue Day festivities by hosting special promotions, encouraging donations, and contributing a portion of sales to Indiana State Athletics. Businesses included Culver's, Jersey Mike's Subs, Joe's Pizza, McDonald's, Show-Me's Sports Bar & Grill, and Terre Haute Brewing Company.
 
"What a great day for Indiana State Athletics," Associate Athletic Director for Development Tyson Baldwin said. "It was wonderful to connect with so many alumni and fans, and to hear their personal stories about what Indiana State has meant to them and their families. We want to thank our coaches and student-athletes for their efforts in promoting Give to Blue Day—and once again, thank you to all 685 supporters who helped make this year a record-breaking success!"
 
Overall 1,937 donors contributed to Give to Blue Day, surpassing the original goal of 1,865, with contributions from all 50 states and five countries.
 
Next year's Give to Blue Day is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
 
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