10 Years of 1869

This year, Trinity University proudly celebrates the 10th anniversary of the 1869 Challenge, a remarkable milestone that marks a decade of philanthropy and support from our dedicated community. Every Fall, this challenge rallies students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends together to enhance the university experience for all Tigers. And though we enjoy watching those gifts and dollars come in during those 1869 minutes, what’s most important is the time outside of those minutes—when we witness our Tigers using those gifts to get the most out of their Trinity experience.

“By giving to Trinity, donors ensure that future generations of Tigers receive a top-tier education, preparing them to be leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” says Jenny Childers ’06, an alumna who has given to every 1869 Challenge since its inception. “For me, supporting student success means ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background. It’s about creating an environment where they can explore their passions, overcome challenges, and prepare themselves for meaningful careers and lives.”

"I am proud to support Trinity every year to give back to a place that has been such a meaningful part of my life, a place where I made lifelong friends and found my career path," says Leslie South '04, another alumna who has given to every 1869 Challenge. "Supporting student success means making sure that students have the resources they need to take full advantage of the opportunities that Trinity provides, both inside and outside of the classroom."

Over the past 10 years, the collective impact of thousands of gifts, no matter how big or small, has been transformative, providing vital resources that enrich every aspect of student life. We’ve raised over $5 million, an amount that has translated into life-changing opportunities for our Tigers across multiple academic departments, student orgs, and athletic teams.

And this September 25-26, we want YOU to accept the 1869 Challenge. During the Challenge, beginning Wednesday, September 25 at 4:50 p.m. Central Time and running through Thursday, September 26 at 11:59 p.m.

As a donor, when you give to a scholarship, student org, academic department, fraternity or sorority, or athletic team, you make it possible for current and future Tigers to pursue their passions. 

"I support Trinity to help Trinity support students. Trinity's generous approach to merit scholarships helped me, and I want to help the next generation of Tigers as well," says T. W. Brown '09, an alumnus who has given back to his alma mater in every 1869 Challenge. "Every little bit helps. Don't worry about the amount, but make a regular practice of giving here and there. It all adds up!"

Join us as part of ONE Trinity. Help us break more records, help us meet our challenge goals, but most importantly, help us change the lives of our Tigers!

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