Last November, the University of Arizona launched the 360 Initiative, a fundraising campaign intended to meet students' holistic financial, wellness and academic needs.

Supporters have given $38.4 million toward the $50 million goal for scholarships, mental health services, tutoring, retention initiatives and related student needs.

"The 360 Initiative made student support a top university priority, and it's become even more crucial in the past year. That's why we're making Giving Day part of Homecoming for the first time in University of Arizona history," said John-Paul Roczniak, president and CEO of the UArizona Foundation.

Students now confront a challenging financial and logistical environment that makes persisting to graduation more difficult, Roczniak said, and Giving Day will continue the progress toward removing obstacles to success. Giving Day will kick off on Nov. 12 at noon and run for 24 hours. It is part of virtual Homecoming, Nov. 12-14.

"We understand not everyone can make a large gift," Roczniak said. "Giving Day is an opportunity to pool many gifts and make an impact together. Every dollar given directly benefits students. It's the perfect way to extend our generous Wildcat spirit during Homecoming."

The Homecoming lineup includes a Fuel Wonder event on Nov. 13 at 11:30 a.m. to conclude Giving Day. The event will showcase ways in which gifts are fueling students' wonder so they can meet their potential and share it with the world. Giving Day results also will be announced.

A panel of university leaders will share perspectives on the university's vision to combine institutional and private resources to provide 360 degrees of student support. Tara Singleton, president of the Associated Students of the University of Arizona, will moderate. The following panelists will discuss the significance of gifts for students in the current environment, as well as the future of philanthropy at UArizona.

• Robert C. Robbins, University of Arizona president
• John-Paul Roczniak, University of Arizona Foundation president and CEO
• Kasey Urquidez, University of Arizona vice president for enrollment management and dean of undergraduate admissions
• Kendal Washington White, University of Arizona vice provost for campus life and dean of students

Donors, alumni, students and community members are invited to register for Fuel Wonder and all Homecoming events at arizonaalumni.com/homecoming.