October 27–31, 2025

Penn It Forward

Celebrate student giving. Experience the impact.

You are invited to our annual Penn It Forward Student Philanthropy Week, October 2731!

Penn It Forward celebrates the generosity of undergraduate alumni donors and showcases how their support directly impacts the student experience. Throughout the week, be on the lookout around campus for signs that highlight the impact of alumni philanthropy.

Check out our events below!

Graphic featuring Philadelphia icons, Ben Franklin, and Penn pride imagery.

Events

Penn It Forward Class Competition

All week long—all over campus

Navy blue triangular pennant featuring the phrase “Cheers to the Royal RED & BLUE” in bold red, white, and blue text with decorative script fonts.

In partnership with Class Board, we will host a friendly competition for students. Team members from The Penn Fund and student volunteers will be around campus throughout the week. Stop by and cast your vote for the philanthropic priority that inspires you most. The fund with the most votes from each class will receive a matching gift from a generous young alum!


Penn It Forward Kickoff

Monday, October 27, 12:00–2:00 p.m.—outside Sweeten Alumni House

Bring a friend, grab some snacks, learn about upcoming opportunities to network with alumni, hear about all the week’s events, and play some fun games!

Class of 2026—you can also make your senior class gift to support the students following in your footsteps!


Thank Penn Alumni Day

Tuesday, October 28, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.—Locust Walk

There are many things to be thankful for at the University, including the donors who support the undergraduate student experience. Join us on Locust Walk to write a thank you note and grab some snacks and exclusive Penn It Forward swag.


Desserts with Donors

Wednesday, October 29, 5:30–7:30 p.m.—Admissions Visitor Center

Learn about philanthropy at the University and hear how undergraduate alumni give back, all while enjoying a sweet treat! Make a case for the cause that is most meaningful to you. If yours is selected, $500 will be directed to the priority of your choice by a generous Penn Fund Executive Board member. RSVP here.


Seniors for The Penn Fund Campaign Kickoff

Thursday, October 30, 5:00–7:00 p.m.—Houston Hall

Get ready for an exciting year ahead! Learn about the important areas you can support through your senior campaign gift, and mingle with classmates over Halloween treats and mocktails.


Houston Hall Spooky Karaoke Night

Thursday, October 30, 7:00–9:00 p.m.—Houston Hall

In partnership with University Life, we are hosting a Halloween-themed games and karaoke night. Sing your heart out, and learn about new ways to engage with alumni! RSVP here.


Philanthropy in Action Day with the Netter Center

Friday, October 31, 4:00–5:30 p.m.—Comegys Elementary School

The logo for the Netter Center for Community Partnerships at the University of Pennsylvania.Join The Penn Fund and the Netter Center for a Safe Trick-or-Treat at Comegys Elementary School. This is a favorite event and such a fun way to spend an afternoon in our community! RSVP here.


Throughout Penn It Forward, we will celebrate all of our outstanding student volunteers. We look forward to seeing you throughout the week!

If you want to help plan events like these and learn more about philanthropy, consider joining the Philanthropy Ambassadors! Reach out to Claire Bergsten at bergsten@upenn.edu for more information.

Penn It Forward—Previous Events

Two students smiling and holding gray event T-shirts at a Penn campus giveaway table.

Penn It Forward 2024

Student writing a thank-you card at a Penn event table with pens and materials laid out.

Penn It Forward 2024

Penn It Forward sign on Locust Walk highlights the Class of 1995 gift to create the Penn Women’s Center Garden.

Penn It Forward 2024

Two Penn Fund staff members smile and give thumbs up while supporting a campus event.

Penn It Forward 2024

Students smiling and writing handwritten thank-you notes to alumni donors during a campus activity.

Penn It Forward 2024

Sign on campus recognizing the Class of 1994’s gift to name the studio lounge in the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.

Penn It Forward 2024

Smiling student holds up a “Thank You” card during a donor appreciation activity on Penn’s campus.

Penn It Forward 2024

Three people smiling together at an outdoor Penn event with T-shirts on a table nearby.

Penn It Forward 2024

A group of students celebrates Commencement, symbolizing the transformational opportunities donor support helps make possible.

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