March 27, 2024

A record number of donors support STEPP during Pirate Nation Gives

East Carolina University’s eighth annual day of giving, Pirate Nation Gives, exceeded expectations and set new records for the STEPP Program. 

The program saw its most successful day of giving, raising $54,595 – a 4,384% increase from 2023. More than 30 donors contributed to STEPP, the highest in program history. STEPP will also receive a $30,000 matching gift from the Russo Family. 

Contributions are crucial to maintaining essential resources for student academic success at ECU. STEPP provides mentoring, tutoring, co-advising and curriculum for students with learning disabilities. It is one of the few academic support programs nationwide that provides these services at no additional cost to students beyond tuition.  

STEPP students participated in a variety of on-campus initiatives. Sophomore Christina Dowd found a PeeDee squishmallow in a Main Campus Student Center meeting room. Finding the squishmallow earned STEPP $500 in bonus money. Students also visited the Pirate Nation Gives table at the student center to share their giving spirit on social media, purchase a philanthropy cord, and thank donors. 

STEPP Director Adam Denney thanked donors during Pirate Nation Gives for sustaining the program. 

“We promise to use your gift wisely and ensure that the spirit of your generosity is preserved through responsible stewardship,” Denney said. 

He also thanked STEPP students and staff for their behind-the-scenes work leading up to Pirate Nation Gives. “We appreciate the efforts of every student and staff member, especially our social media marketing intern, Sam Huffman. Your hard work does not go unnoticed!” Denney said. 

For more information about the ways to give to STEPP, visit https://stepp.ecu.edu/give/.

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East Carolina University Walter & Marie Williams STEPP Program
Joyner Library
1000 East Fifth Street
Mail Stop 516
Greenville, NC 27858-4353
stepp@ecu.edu
Phone: 252-737-2661
www.stepp.ecu.edu