Campaign raises funds to help students, student-athletes finish strong

July 17, 2020

On May 18, Georgia Southern University launched the “Ensure Our Eagles Finish Strong” campaign with a goal of raising funds for students facing financial hardships during these unprecedented times.

The campaign raised more than $290,000 in funds for students on a needs-based priority and for assisting up to 14 returning spring sport seniors who saw their 2019-2020 collegiate seasons cut short. For traditional students, the money raised will keep them from dropping out due to a lack of funding. For student-athletes, the campaign will ensure they can finish their seasons and reach their athletics goals. 

“I am so proud of our Eagle Nation family for rallying around our students and student-athletes during these challenging times,” said Georgia Southern University President Kyle Marrero. “These funds will mean all the difference for a student who is struggling financially, and for our student-athletes, who were unable to properly finish the journey they started. Thank you to all of our alumni, friends and community supporters who made this possible.”

Alumni advocates like Curtis J. Williams (‘10) created videos and social media posts to get the word out about the campaign, and generated excitement among his fellow alumni. Each one solicited donations and together raised thousands for Ensuring Our Eagles Finish Strong.

One of the most notable contributions to the campaign came from alumni R.T. (‘12) and Brianna (‘12) Evans, together with Richard T. (Tim) and E.J. Evans, who made a $125,000 commitment to the campaign, its single largest gift. Tim and R.T. are executive team members of Evans General Contractors, a leading design/build, general contracting and construction management firm headquartered in Atlanta with an office in Savannah.

“Helping students achieve their goals is our top priority. Helping to provide for their needs is essential to ensure they are able to rise above the uncertainty they are facing at this time,” said Tim Evans, president and CEO of Evans General Contractors. “At Evans General Contractors it is our philosophy and mission to give back to the communities that helped build the company we are today.”