What: UNT's first Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day hosted by the Student Alumni Association and NT40. CASE Affiliated Student Advancement Programs is organizing the global event, which involves nearly 70 institutions around the world.

When/Where: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Feb. 28 (Thursday) in the University Union Atrium

Cost: Free

Contact: Michelle Bradley, Student Alumni Association advisor, by e-mail at Michelle.Bradley@unt.edu or by phone at 940-565-3355.

DENTON (UNT), Texas -- The University of North Texas will join nearly 70 educational institutions worldwide to participate in the first-ever Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day. The initiative, organized by CASE Affiliated Student Advancement Programs, is designed to increase student understanding of philanthropy and grow engagement on campuses.

UNT's Student Alumni Association and NT40, an organization comprised of the top student leaders on campus, will host "I Heart UNT Day" from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Feb. 28 (Thursday) in the University Union Atrium. The UNT community is invited to show why they love UNT and how they give back to the university. Participants will be entered to win an "I Heart UNT" shirt. The shirt is also available online, and at least $1 per shirt will be donated to the Student Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. More information can be found at online.

Institutions from the United States, England, Canada, Australia and other countries will participate in the event through various activities, including "thank-a-thons," day-long social media campaigns and student video interviews on what giving means to them.

"UNT would not be what it is today without the generosity of current students, staff, faculty, alumni and friends who give back," said Michelle Bradley, Student Alumni Association staff advisor. "Giving back can take many shapes. Some donate monetarily, or volunteer as a tutor or mentor."

The event aims to grow student understanding of philanthropy and to show students how giving impacts UNT. It also is meant to increase student engagement in giving now and as future alumni.

"It's important that students start taking steps to become the next group of philanthropic leaders," said Rob Henry, CASE's executive director of emerging constituencies. "On February 28, we celebrate the value students bring to their institutions with their time, talent and treasure."

Henry is available for news media interviews on student giving and the overall initiative. To schedule an interview, contact Pam Russell at 202-478-5680 or at Russell@email.com.

About UNT Student Alumni Association

UNT Student Alumni Association (SAA) members are future alumni working today to ensure future student success. As a branch of NT40, an organization comprised of the top student leaders on campus, SAA works closely with student leaders to promote the pride, spirit and positive image of UNT.

About CASE and CASE ASAP

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in London, Singapore and Mexico City, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education is the professional organization for advancement professionals at all levels who work in alumni relations, communications, fundraising, marketing and other areas.

CASE ASAP comprises student alumni associations, student philanthropy groups and similar organizations at more than 375 CASE member institutions. Its goal is to foster and enhance student involvement in all areas of advancement while providing unique opportunities for students to explore careers in higher educational advancement.