Estera Boca ‘24 was on the fast-track to earning her political science degree. Though she only spent two years as a student at UC Riverside, Boca felt a deep connection to the campus and wanted to give something back, so she made a donation to the Student Basic Needs Fund as part of the class gift campaign and received a blue-and-gold philanthropy cord to wear at commencement.

“UCR was only my home for a short time, but it was the home that saw me change drastically and find my future purpose, and I owe so much to the campus for helping me along the way,” Boca said. “UCR shaped me into who I am today, and the memories, conversations, and friendships that resulted made it clear that UCR is certainly worth supporting in any way I know how.”

Graduating students have had the opportunity to receive philanthropy cords for making donations to campus funds since 2023. Highlanders from the classes of ’23 and ’24 donated $30,000 to support funds spanning scholarships, student support services, academic programs, and athletics.

“It’s important for students to give back at any level as it helps them understand the importance of philanthropy and foster a culture of giving back by supporting their alma mater and future students, just as others did for them,” said Brandon Medeiros, associate director for Annual Giving, the department that operates the class gift program. “Our hope is for students to gain a better understanding of philanthropy and learn about the various causes and programs they can support on campus, recognizing that every gift, regardless of the size, makes an impact.”

Members of the class of ’25 who would like to participate in the class gift are making $25 donations to the campus fund of their choice. The first 500 graduating students who donated had their gifts matched dollar-for-dollar by a challenge fund established by members of the U.C. Riverside Foundation Board of Trustees.

“The board is committed to developing and supporting a culture of philanthropy at UC Riverside, and part of our responsibility here is engaging the next generation of donors,” said Trustee Jim Merino, M.B.A. ’98. “We think the match is a direct and concrete way to show new graduates that their donations are important and highly valued, and that the trustees stand alongside them as part of the UCR community.”

Students are inspired to give by a sense of connection to past and future Highlanders.

“UCR and its community made me feel safe, welcomed, loved, supported and cared for,” said Pahola Hernandez ’24, who gave to the Health, Well-being & Safety Fund. “Because of them, I was able to graduate in four years with fond memories and skill sets that I wouldn’t have had anywhere else. I’d love to pass on that torch and allow someone else to feel as supported as I was at UCR.”

By making a donation to the class gift program, graduates are hopeful that they’ll encourage more giving to UCR.

“The Philanthropy Cord program is a wonderful way to encourage a culture of giving among students and alumni,” said Miriam Fadel ’24, who gave to the Student Basic Needs Fund. “It serves as a reminder that even as we pursue our own goals, we can make a difference in the lives of others. I’m proud to be a part of this initiative and hope it inspires others to contribute to UCR’s mission.”