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EduGators Stand Up and Holler

The University of Florida’s Gator Nation Giving Day 2026 inspired a wave of generosity across the UF campus. The College of Education experienced an impressive 161% increase in donor participation, highlighting the culture of collaboration at the center of the EduGator community. Philanthropic contributions from faculty, staff, students and stakeholders have always been essential in funding scholarships, faculty positions and statewide outreach initiatives that are transforming the future of education.

While there are many reasons people choose to support UF, the most common thread among College of Education alumni is a deep-rooted gratitude for the experience that set them on a meaningful and fulfilling career path and the personal connections they shared with faculty and peers. Many feel a responsibility to give back, uplifting the next generation of educators and improving their communities.

Will Holcombe (Ph.D. ‘74) spent his career in higher education, leading multiple Florida colleges and serving as Chancellor of the Florida College System from 2007 to 2011. As chancellor, he played a key role in shaping higher-education legislation in the state. He believes the knowledge and connections he gained while studying at UF were integral to his career success, which has sparked a strong desire to contribute to his alma mater.

“I think it’s important for College of Education graduates to try and give back in whatever way they can,” Holcombe explained. “Money is one way—I wanted to give back to my program because it meant so much to me. The other is time. There are a lot of ways to stay connected, so it’s about focusing on continuing to grow and learn and help others do the same, however you can.”

A smiling older man outdoors wearing a blue Florida Gators hat with sunglasses resting on the brim, and a matching blue and orange Florida Gators polo shirt.

This desire to stay connected with the UF community was so great for Adrienne Garcia (M.Ed. ‘70, Ed.S. ‘71, Ed.D. ‘78) that she went on to serve on the UF Alumni Association board nearly two decades after graduation, eventually becoming the second female president of the association in 90 years. Garcia said she had some of the best experiences of her life on campus, particularly the time she spent with her younger sister, Patty (B.S.Ed. ‘72, M.Ed. ‘73). The two sisters attended Gator football games and college events together as they acquired the skills needed to teach in the classroom.

Upon graduation, Patty began teaching math in Alachua, fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming an educator. Tragedy struck just three years later when Patty died of a sudden illness, devastating Garcia and her family. Motivated by her sister’s discipline and drive, Adrienne went on to have a robust career spent teaching, consulting and leading in education and fundraising, paving the way for her to honor Patty’s legacy by endowing a fellowship at the institution that meant so much to both of them.

“Our parents and grandparents always taught us to work hard and give back, so giving to the College of Ed was always in the back of my mind,” Garcia said. “I realized I could help these college students—who are tomorrow’s teachers. I called Dean Good, and we decided to create something to support students who were interested in studying math education in Patty’s honor.”

A smiling couple standing in the stands at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during a night football game, with a large crowd in the background and the marching band performing on the brightly lit field. The man is wearing a blue Florida Gators button-down shirt and the woman is wearing a sleeveless denim top.

Supporting students and future educators is a central theme among many donors to the college, including Larry Feldman (BA ‘72, MAE ‘73), who has spent his entire career teaching, leading and advocating for educators, students and administrators across the state of Florida. He gives back to the College of Education to say thank you for guiding him to his calling and to support the students who share his passion for uplifting communities and ensuring UF’s legacy of leadership continues.

“Giving back is all about building the relationship, not the money. My wife, Avis, and I came from parents who worked tirelessly to overcome many obstacles. We wanted to give back to students so they would not struggle with jobs instead of studying,” Feldman explained.

“Have you tried reaching down and lifting anyone else up to say, ‘Look how far you can see when you are on my shoulders?’ And if you haven’t, how can they see the many opportunities available beyond their own path?” Feldman asked. “You can say thank you to the next generation knowing your help made the positive difference in their lives.”

Albert the Alligator, the University of Florida mascot wearing an orange shirt with a blue F, posing next to a smiling man named Larry who is wearing glasses, a pink button-down shirt, and an orange and blue beaded necklace.

Learn more about giving opportunities

Giving is a meaningful way to support a brighter future. At the College of Education, every gift helps open doors, support learning, and strengthen the impact of education for generations to come.

Ways to give