Founders Week Celebration
Let's Raise the Roar!
February 16 - 20, 2026

Founders Week is one of McKendree’s most meaningful traditions—an annual celebration of history, community, and philanthropy that brings Bearcats together to honor the University’s enduring legacy. 

Founders Week will be recognized February 16–20, 2026, where McKendree University will celebrate its 198th anniversary, recognizing nearly two centuries of impact made possible through generosity and Bearcat pride.

Throughout the week, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends will take part in fun and meaningful activities that highlight the power of giving, including philanthropy education moments across campus. See the schedule of activities below.

At the heart of Founders Week is the 4th annual One McKendree Giving Day, a 1,828-minute giving campaign held from 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18 to 6:28 p.m. Thursday, February 19, honoring McKendree’s founding year of 1828. Together, Founders Week celebrates McKendree’s past, energizes the present, and builds momentum for the future.

Join the McKendree Movement

One McKendree Giving Day is more than a giving day—it’s a celebration of the connections that shape our community. Reflect on your journey, revisit the moments that inspired your path, and help carry McKendree’s mission forward.

📌 Make your early gift today!
(Be sure to check the box "I'm making my One McKendree Giving Day gift early.")

 

 

Founders Week Schedule of Events

Monday, February 16^th
Together, We Learn
Philanthropy Education Day with campus signage and classroom moments highlighting how donor generosity shapes the McKendree experience.

Tuesday, February 17^th
Together, We Sweeten the Future
Dollars for Donuts — a fun, engaging giving opportunity for students, faculty, and staff.

Wednesday, February 18^th – Thursday, February 19^th
Together, We Raise the Roar
From noon on February 18 to 6:28 p.m. on February 19, join us for 1,828 minutes to Raise the Roar and support the areas of McKendree that matter most.

Friday, February 20^th
Together, We Are McKendree
A campus-wide day of gratitude featuring our annual McKendree birthday celebration in Ames Dining Hall, gratitude stations, and the grand re-opening of Voigt Science Hall — made possible through donor support.

 

 

 

Questions?

For additional information, please contact the Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations at annual_fund@mckendree.edu or (618) 537-6443.