In just 24 hours, more than 6,000 donors gave over $3 million to support students and strengthen programs. Hundreds of generous alumni fueled the day’s success—making gifts, offering matches and challenges, spreading the word and encouraging others to participate. 

Pacific Gives showcases the power of community and the many ways alumni respond to the university’s lasting impact. Below are just a few examples highlighting how alums made a tangible difference this year. 
 
The Triple Crown | Kuy Ky ’92 

Ky was Pacific’s #1 ambassador for three straight years. Since 2024 he has recruited nearly 900 gifts to the Community Involvement Program, supporting first generation students like himself. 

Now the father of three Pacific students, he jumps at any opportunity to share the university’s impact on his family. His Pacific Gives outreach included hundreds of calls and texts providing “a nice snapshot of how important Pacific is to me, to the next generation of students, and to the whole community.” 

As an ambassador, Ky leveraged his personal values—presence, authenticity, gratitude—along with his unending enthusiasm and supportive social network. 

“I rave and cheer about Pacific wherever I go,” he said. “My friends and colleagues were excited to hear me talk about what the university stands for, and the result was truly a group effort.” 
 
The Greek Leader | Jason Carnes ’15 

When Carnes and his Sigma Chi brothers learned their chapter needed help, they quickly responded. Working together, they raised $11,000 supporting chapter operations. 

“This was a group effort by some very passionate alumni,” Carnes said, recalling a slew of phone calls and a massive email chain. “We got started and it spread like wildfire. We all share a deep fondness for Pacific, and this challenge motivated us be better alumni, especially now that we’re in positions where we can start to give back.” 

Pacific Gives gifts will help current students cover housing costs and, for those facing financial hardship, will provide short-term assistance with chapter dues.  

“We have a huge network of alumni who collectively haven’t been very active with the university, but Pacific Gives was a huge step in the right direction. It smacked the hornet’s nest—in a good way—and has reignited a passion for Pacific and Sigma Chi and a very positive conversation about how we can do more.” 
 
The Bridge Builder | Tricia Christensen ’98, ’99 

Christensen matched dozens of gifts to the Young Alumni Access Initiative, aimed at engaging recent graduates through affordable events, networking and professional development. 

“I was proud to support this effort—every gift helps build momentum, and these gifts are a clear sign that people care about helping recent graduates stay connected to Pacific,” she said. 

Gifts will provide discounted access to Homecoming, regional gatherings and other events. The university also is developing a young alumni council to collaborate on programming specifically for recent graduates.  

“Our young alumni are future mentors, volunteers, leaders and donors. Supporting them now is one of the smartest long-term investments Pacific can make,” Christensen said. “When we come together to invest in young alums, it strengthens the entire Pacific community for years to come.” 
 
The Loyal Investor | Tom McGinley ’58 

Nearly 70 years after graduating from Pacific, McGinley continues giving back. His $5,000 challenge gift to the Eberhardt School of Business will help student investors visit major financial markets, meet top firms and network with alumni.  

“One good way to get through life is to invest, and it’s important for young people to realize that and get an early start. It’s a great thing for Pacific students to do—I only wish I had started sooner,” McGinley said.  

He challenged 50 donors to join him in supporting the Eberhardt Student Managed Class Fund—a goal that was quickly surpassed, with 72 donors giving more than $22,000. Business students visit New York annually, and the challenge’s success will allow them to attend conferences and firm visits in additional cities.  

It’s the latest installment in decades of support from this loyal Pacifican, who turns 90 later this year. 

“I’ve always felt very loyal to Pacific, so I make sure to contribute any time I can, just to show that my interest is still there,” McGinley said. “During Pacific Gives I had the opportunity to give and I could do it, so I said yes. I’m happy to have been able to help.” 
 

The Future Alumna | Mōhailani Peloso ’28 

A top student ambassador, Peloso recruited 24 gifts for the women’s track and field team. She calls the experience a worthwhile step out of her comfort zone. 

“I have a hard time asking people to donate, but I texted family, past coaches and teammates, and lots of people were kind enough to give,” she said. “All I asked for was $1, but many were generous enough to give more.” 

Peloso and her team completed a 4-hour “sprint-a-thon,” sending rapid-fire texts to as many supporters as possible. They raised $8,500 from nearly 300 donors.  

“We’re fortunate to know so many great people who support our cause and want us to do well,” she said. “It means a lot that my support system is there, that those relationships I made in the past can help me now and will be with me for a long time.” 

And on asking, even when you’re uncomfortable, she advises: “Ask wholeheartedly and be kind. You’ll be surprised by the kindness people give back to you.” 

Pacific Gives returns April 20-21, 2027.