By: Jacob Lesley
The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s annual “Wear Black, Give Back” fundraiser is aiming to reach a new milestone as the 24-hour event enters its seventh year.
The fundraiser, which began in 2020 with a goal of collecting 1,000 gifts, is targeting 7,000 gifts this year, said Joel Gehringer, director of annual giving for the NU Foundation.
The event raises money for university programs and initiatives, including athletics, student organizations, research and scholarships.
“We started ‘Wear Black, Give Back’ seven years ago. 2020 was our first one, and our goal back then was to get 1,000 gifts. We’ve grown quite a bit since then; now, our goal is going to be 7,000 gifts this year,” Gehringer said.
A $1 million pledge from John Morgan is among the contributions supporting this year’s campaign.
UNO alumnus and donor Dave Offutt is also helping the university reach its fundraising goals. Offutt and his wife, Jane, have established nearly $100,000 in donation challenges. The challenges allow their contributions to be matched when specified donation thresholds are met.
Offutt said the university plays an important role in Omaha and deserves continued support as it grows.
“UNO has been at the heart of Omaha, very important to the city, very important to the students, and, to me, I just think it needs to keep growing,” Offutt said.
The fundraiser’s total proceeds have increased each year, reaching a record $1.4 million in 2025.
Gehringer said word of mouth helps encourage participation, with donors often contributing smaller amounts that collectively support the university.
Organizers hope the event will continue building a culture of giving among students and alumni. Offutt said supporting the university helps establish a foundation for its future and encourages graduates to give back when they are able.
“They remember that after they graduate, and then they, in turn, when they are ready and able, support the university as an alumni through ‘Wear Black, Give Back’ or elsewhere,” Gehringer said.
“You know, a lot of it is word of mouth, but I think, even in my case, I tell people about it, and they say, ‘Oh, sure, we can pitch in 50 bucks or 100 bucks,’” Offutt added.
This year’s “Wear Black, Give Back” fundraiser has officially concluded. Those interested in supporting UNO in 2027 can make donations through the university’s giving day website at givingday.unomaha.edu.
