The University of South Carolina community came together once again to prove what it means to be the University for South Carolina during this year’s Give 4 Garnet.
In just 1 day, 8 hours and 01 minute, alumni, students, faculty and supporters across the state and beyond united to make a lasting impact, resulting in a preliminary count of 1.3 million raised thanks to more than 6,250 donors. This highlights the power of Gamecocks coming together to support not only the campus, but communities across South Carolina.
This year, donors rallied behind Cocky’s Causes, supporting areas that define the Carolina experience and extend statewide reach:
- Basic Needs – ensuring students have access to essential resources to succeed
- Carolina Experiences – creating opportunities that shape student life and leadership
- SC Strong – strengthening communities across South Carolina
- Carolina’s Mission – advancing the university’s impact in education, research and service
Generosity went even further thanks to $330,000 in matches and challenge funds, amplifying gifts and fueling even greater impact.
Bonus Winners:
🔎 Student Scavenger Hunt:
1st place: $2,500 - Jacob Zahn (Pillars for Carolina Foundation Fund)
2nd place: $1,500 - Harry Weaver (Engineers Without Borders Fund)
3rd place: $1,000 - Madeline Ronningen (IHSA Equestrian Club Fund)
Early Bird Challenge:
1st place: $2,500 - Zeta Zeta Endowed Scholarship Fund
2nd place: $1,500 - USC Lancaster Soccer Fund
3rd place: $1,000 - Gamecock CommUnity Shop
Employee Early Bird Challenge:
1st place: $2,500 - Carolina Cares Fund
2nd place: $1,500 - Gamecock CommUnity Shop
3rd place: $1,000 - Koger Center Presents Events
💰 Most Raised:
1st place: $2,500 - Thomas K. F. Wong Hospitality Endowed Scholarship Fund
2nd place: $1,500 - Richard and Sara Simpson Endowed Scholarship Fund
3rd place: $1,000 - Law School Scholarship Fund
🥇 Beat Your Best Leaderboard:
The fund with the largest percentage increase of donors over last year
1st place: $5,000 - WUSC-FM Fundraiser Week
2nd place: $2,500 - Gamecock CommUnity Shop
3rd place: $1,000 - Rule of Law Collaborative
👑 Most Donors Winners:
1st place: $5,000 - Zeta Zeta Endowed Scholarship Fund
2nd place: $2,500 - USC Lancaster Soccer Fund
3rd place: $1,000 - Carolina Men’s Rugby Fund
⏰ Power Hour Winners:
Prime Time Power Hour 3/25 9-11 a.m. - Student Affairs and Academic Support-Carolina Cares Fund
In It to Win It Power Hour 3/25 5-7 p.m. - Zeta Zeta Endowed Scholarship Fund
Early Bird Power Hour 3/26 6-8 a.m. - Student Affairs and Academic Support-Carolina Cares Fund
Closing Time Power Hour 3/26 Noon-2 p.m. – WUSC-FM Radio
Social Media Allstar Ambassador Challenge:
1st place: $5,000 - Dylan Bess (Zeta Zeta Endowed Scholarship Fund)
2nd place: $2,500 - Jacqui McBurney (Gamecock CommUnity Shop)
3rd place: $1,000 - John Roberts
Gamecocks showed that when we give as one, we don’t just support a university, we strengthen the entire state. Although Give 4 Garnet 2026 is in the books, the impact continues. It's never too late to join the cause and support USC's on-campus initiatives. Keep the spirit of giving alive all year round at USC's giving website.