Let’s start with something important. If you’ve gotten an email from Goshen College asking you — as a current student — for a donation, that wasn’t supposed to happen. Oops. As Tyson Miller pointed out in his Jan. 16 editorial, some students have received fundraising messages intended for alumni and friends. We know you’re already investing plenty in this place just by being here. Our apologies for the mix-up!

This raises a fair question: Isn’t tuition enough to keep the college running? Short answer: not quite.

Last year, tuition, room and board covered 58% of Goshen College’s expenses. That means tuition alone doesn’t fully fund your scholarships, academic programs, music ensembles, athletic teams, study abroad experiences, student activities or campus resources. So who fills that gap? Generous alumni, parents, friends, grandparents — people who care deeply about this community and students like you. Their gifts make Goshen more affordable and help sustain the vibrant, opportunity-rich environment that defines this place.

So, while you are welcome to become involved by making a gift, we’re not asking you to donate right now (except towards your senior class gift). But we are inviting you to be part of something much bigger — something that doesn’t cost a thing but can make a huge impact.

That something is Connect Goshen Day, happening Wednesday, April 2. It’s one day each year when the entire GC community — alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents and friends — comes together to celebrate what connects us and to invest in the college’s future.

But here’s the key: participation isn’t just about giving money. You, as a student, have the unique power to shape this day’s success without spending a dime.

Why? Because, according to a statistic provided by GiveCampus, people are 44% more likely to give when asked by someone they know. When alumni and donors see current students sharing their real stories — why you chose Goshen, what you’re passionate about, how you’ve grown — they’re reminded exactly why they support this place. And when they hear a personal word of gratitude, it deepens that connection and encourages them to keep giving.

Here’s how you can get involved on April 2:

Stop by Gunden Commons in Westlawn anytime that day or evening. You’ll find great snacks (Rise’n Roll donuts, Shirley’s popcorn, JoJo’s pretzels — you get the idea), free GC swag, fun activities and friendly folks ready to help. 

While you are there, become an online advocate. We’ll show you how to share your story and invite your family, friends and network to contribute if they’re able. The best part? Our online system makes it super easy. And you’ll be able to track how many people engage because of your outreach — watching your direct impact in real-time. The more impact you make, the more great swag you’ll get as thanks!

Or you’ll be able to record a thank-you video or write a quick note to a donor — you’d be amazed how meaningful a simple “thank you” can be.

Someday soon, when you’re an alum out in the world, you’ll be in a position to give back financially if you choose. And trust me, you don’t have to be super wealthy to get started. Most of Goshen’s donors are people like you, who once sat where you are now, whose lives were shaped here and who want future students to have those same opportunities. They give because they care and are grateful. And when the time comes, we hope you will too.

But that starts with connection — not money. When you show up, share your story and spread your pride in Goshen College, you’re already contributing in powerful ways. You’re part of the cycle of generosity, even before you give a dollar.

So, as Connect Goshen Day approaches, remember: Your voice, your enthusiasm, your story and your gratitude matter.

And this year, all we’re asking is that you show up and share them.