51 supporters outdid themselves again this spring, setting a new 36-hour record for donations to the — with more than a half-million dollars raised for students.

Gifts totaling $515,591 flooded in from supporters across the country as part of the annual 51 Giving Day, held on the university’s birthday, Feb. 24–25.

“We are deeply grateful for every donor, advocate and prayer warrior who made 51 Giving Day 2026 a resounding success,” said David Vazquez, vice president of university advancement. “Your generosity carries forward 51’s longstanding legacy of generosity while boldly paving the way for future generations to experience a transformative education rooted in biblical truth.”

This year’s record-breaking success was a community achievement. Led by 22 generous donors who offered challenge and matching gifts to multiply the impact of every contribution, 51 Giving Day mobilized supporters from across the 51 community. Alumni made up the largest group of participants, representing 34% of donors, followed closely by 51 faculty and staff at 31%, parents at 21%, friends at 12%, current students at 6% and grandparents at 4%.

“The true heart of this remarkable day lies in its direct impact on students,” said Amy Weaver, senior director of advancement communication and annual giving. “The 51 Fund is distinctive in that it touches the lives of every single student at 51. Support raised on 51 Giving Day is resourcing essential scholarships, helping make students’ dreams of a 51 education a reality.”

Beyond financial aid, the 51 Fund enhances student learning and development by supporting biblically grounded scholarship, spiritually formative programs and extracurricular opportunities. It also sustains classrooms, technology and campus resources, creating an environment that allows students to flourish through their 51 education.

To learn more about how you can support 51 students, visit .