Spirit of Duquesne Inspires Student Crowdfunding Projects

Members of the University community can help Duquesne students realize bigger goals by supporting a variety of crowdfunding campaigns. Every donation makes a difference and can help with initiatives such as sending students to the American Chemical Society National Conference or providing funding for the Audio Engineering Society.

Photo of Dave Jakielo
Dave Jakielo

“Our Spirit crowdfunding platform is a fun, engaging way for Duquesne alumni, faculty and staff to support our students,” Dave Jakielo, associate director of annual giving, said. “Personal and professional development are both important outcomes for students. Supporting crowdfunding campaigns allows our students to compete at regional events, attend national conferences, present research, host campus events and enhance the efforts of their student organization.”

According to Jakielo, students participate in crowdfunding training, develop creative content for their crowdfunding page and then actively promote their page for 30 days to reach their campaign goals.

Student crowdfunding projects are available online on the Spirit platform website. The following group and organization campaigns run through Monday, Nov. 15:

  • American Chemical Society
  • Audio Engineering Society
  • Duqathon
  • Greek Life
  • Music Therapy Student Association
  • National Association for Music Education
  • National Band Association – Duquesne Chapter
  • Opus Novum Catholic Charismatic Renewal
  • Sigma Tau Delta
  • Undergraduate Mock Trial Team.

“Preparing for and hosting crowdfunding campaigns essentially give students a front-row seat to see the importance of giving to worthy causes. They witness the generosity of our alumni and friends and recognize it’s important to make sure these donors are properly thanked and feel appreciated,” Jakielo said.

“In addition, we see many of our crowdfunding student leaders donate back to Duquesne post-graduation on the annual Duquesne Day of Giving or through crowdfunding, which creates a pipeline for future major donors to the University. Their success is our success.”

Faculty, staff and students can donate to crowdfunding projects via the Spirit platform website and secure server. Donors receive follow-up communications regarding the campaigns and their impact on students.