LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. — As stay-at-home orders remain in place, Lincoln University got creative for their 166th Founder’s Day celebration. Lincoln hosted a Virtual Block Party on Instagram and Facebook to engage alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends.
“Thank goodness for the Virtual Block Party. It was exactly the boost of morale that we all needed. I made multiple gifts because I am so proud of my HBCU,” said Shavon Jordan ’13.
Throughout the day Lincoln University featured alumni stories and a series of afternoon and evening themed parties hosted by alumni DJs Smoove, Skeemz, Brownsville, and Maybach. Lincoln provided an opportunity for vendors, raffles, and of course, a host of laughs and memories in the comment section.
Using the online giving portal and adding the convenience of giving with CashApp and Venmo, the goal was to raise $50,000, but instead what Lincoln experienced was an uptick in their social media engagement and a host of first-time donors. More than 3,000 people engaged Lincoln’s Instagram Live and 400 plus became new followers to LU’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
“Due to the unfortunate circumstances the world is facing, we had to think outside of the box in order to engage the people we serve,” said Rich Lancaster, III, director of annual giving. “Our students were hit hard. We thought it to be a great idea to garner the support of those who love Lincoln and raise funds for the Student Emergency Fund on Founder’s Day.”
View the Founder’s Day videos
Alumni may still submit videos for future use.
The celebration consisted of an opening dedication and a ceremonial wreath placement at the historic and beloved Alumni Memorial Arch by Rev. Dr. Frederick Faison, associate vice president for student success, health, and wellness.
Usually, during this time of year, Lincoln University would be preparing to celebrate large, in-person class reunions and Commencement but with University closed, this level of virtual engagement seems to have been a great alternative to inspire philanthropy and participation.
The opportunity to sign up for future event announcements or to donate to students affected by COVID-19 and other challenges is still available by visiting giving.lincoln.edu.
Stay in touch by following Lincoln on social media.
