As UC Riverside reaches out to donors for its second annual UCR Give Day on April 3 and 4, it is highlighting the stories of students like Alexis Carmona.

A first-generation student and cancer survivor whose family immigrated from Mexico, Carmona knows first-hand the need for more physicians to serve her community.

She’s been able to pursue her goal of becoming a doctor at the School of Medicine thanks to a Mark and Pam Rubin Mission Scholarship.

“Having been awarded this scholarship, I am blessed beyond measure to focus solely on my academics,” she said. “The financial burden of medical school inhibits many from pursuing this career. Still, donors (to Give Day) help individuals like me have their voices heard and influence our community for the better.”

The first stand-alone UCR Give Day was launched last year as a way for donors to support students, research, and campus programs while focusing solely on UCR. Last year’s campaign raised $512,670 with 1,713 gifts from 1,255 donors.

Eighty-one campus programs have signed up for this year’s Give Day, seeking support for a variety of programs and scholarships.

For Britney Mayowa’ 24, a student majoring in education, society, and human development, a scholarship from the Black Alumni Chapter affirmed her goals and showed she was on the right path. 

“Sometimes I doubt myself and think that I cannot achieve the goals I set out for myself, but it is amazing to know that I am supported and there are people who believe in me and my aspirations,” she said. “I am even more encouraged to continue on my path of making education more equitable for low-income students.”

Stories like hers show the difference that alumni, family, faculty, staff, students, and community members can make in the lives of students through Give Day, said Marianne Paek, director of Annual Giving.

This year’s effort includes the participation of campaign champions making personalized appeals to friends and family through their networks and social media.

Donors will also have opportunities to unlock additional funds through several challenges. Those include a $10,000 donation from SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union if 385 faculty and staff members donate $10 or more. In another challenge, an anonymous donor will give $25,000 to the UCR Fund if 500 or more alumni make a gift for UCR Give Day.

Give Day will be held between noon April 3 and noon April 4 but Annual Giving has opened up early giving for those who want to donate earlier.

Learn more at the UCR Give Day website.