The College of Engineering has been building momentum over the past month for the launch of its Giving Days, a two-day campaign Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 17-18, to raise scholarship funds for aspiring engineers.

The campaign's theme, "Brewing Innovation: It Doesn't Cost a Lot, Just a Latte," invites engineering alumni to give up their morning latte for a couple of days — with a suggested donation of at least $10 — to support scholarships for students in their department of study. The college's advancement team set a bold goal of achieving a record-breaking 1,500 gifts over 48 hours of the campaign, which begins at midnight.

"I'm thrilled with the enthusiasm our alumni have shown already, both those who graduated in the past few years and those whose engineering careers began decades ago," said Dean Kim Needy. "We love to be engaged with our alumni, who keep us connected to our communities and industries, ensuring we are providing essential, relevant education to the engineers who will build our future."

Needy — always game to support the college and its students in any way her team requests — took a star turn in a video announcing the campaign.

The team secured matching gifts for departments, and Needy issued a challenge to the departments by promising $5,000 in scholarship funds to:

1. The department that attracts participation from the greatest percentage of alumni, and
2. The department with the greatest percentage of first-time donors.

Alumnus Brad Gentry, who gave a $5,000 matching gift for the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, said it's an honor to support the college and its current students.

"I'm grateful for the incredible education I received at the University of Arkansas, which gave me a competitive foundation and set me on a path to success," he said. "I believe our shared commitment to excellence will propel the next generation of engineers to reach new heights and tackle the world's engineering challenges for the good of everyone."

Although targeted to alumni, the Giving Days campaign is open to anyone who would like to give in support of engineering, and faculty and staff have already made significant contributions.