Big Blue Nation is invited to support their favorite colleges, programs and causes during the university’s annual giving day, One Day for UK (OD4UK) on April 18. 

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment invites the community to unite in supporting the college’s Student Enhancement Discretionary Gift Fund, designed in advancing student success initiatives outside of the classroom. 

Gifts to this fund on O24UK will help Martin-Gatton CAFE students explore valuable experiential learning opportunities, including hands-on learning in research labs, leadership development at conferences, internships, professional development and more. 

“We are excited to improve our students’ access to enriching activities, enhancing their education and promoting their personal growth,” said Nancy Cox, vice president for Land-grant Engagement and dean of the college. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to David Jacobs and Carmen and John Agouridis for their extraordinary matching gifts. Together, we are empowering the next generation of leaders committed to enhancing lives in Kentucky and beyond." 

Matching Gifts 

Thanks to the generosity of two donors, donations will be matched for the first $10,000 in gifts towards the Student Enhancement Discretionary Gift Fund on O24UK. 

David Jacobs, owner of Jacobs Farm LLC in Stamping Ground, Kentucky, has provided a $5,000 matching gift. Jacobs says he wants his gift to help students experiencing financial barriers pursue these valuable learning opportunities outside of the classroom. 

“Students have the chance to attend and participate in many professional opportunities outside the classroom. These often come with a financial commitment,” Jacobs said. “I hope my gift will ensure financial barriers don’t prevent students from furthering their education and pursuing their passions.” 

Carmen and John Agouridis have also provided a $5,000 matching gift. Carmen, who serves the college as the senior associate dean, knows from personal experience how many doors can be opened for students outside the classroom. 

“When I was a student, I had an experience outside the classroom that changed the trajectory of my life. I hope this gift will do the same for our students and help them make an impact in Kentucky and beyond.” 

All UK and Martin-Gatton CAFE alumni, community partners and supporters, faculty, friends, staff and students are invited to participate in O24UK. 

To give to the Martin-Gatton CAFE Student Enhancement Discretionary Gift Fund, visit https://onedayforuk.com/campaigns/martin-gatton-college-of-ag-food-and-environment.

# # #

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.