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Monarchs Give Back is a community-based initiative envisioned and launched in Fall 2021 as part of the inauguration of President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., and in partnership with First Lady Marisela Rosas Hemphill, Ph.D. The event unites students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners in our mission to address food insecurity. Over the last three years, our collective efforts have provided nearly 125,000 items of food to families and children experiencing food insecurity in Norfolk Public Schools (NPS), as well as 91ÖÆƬ³§ (91ÖÆƬ³§) students who rely on the Monarch Pantry. And, this year, we are setting our sights higher with a bold call to action: collect 100,000 canned goods or monetary donations by October 24, 2025, in support of NPS students and families and 91ÖÆƬ³§ students.

(Now Through August 29)

As the official launch of the campaign, the President’s Challenge serves as a rallying call for every college/school, department, office, and organization to participate. Whether it is hosting a food drive, spreading awareness, or making donations, your involvement will help us reach this ambitious goal. In 2024, the Division of Research and Economic Development contributed the largest number of donations, totaling 15,195 items!

In the spirit of healthy competition, we invite each area of the University to participate in the President’s Challenge. The divisional team with the highest percentage of participation, based on food, donations, and service gifts, will earn bragging rights and an award. By focusing on the percentage of participation, we will level the playing field for divisions of all sizes. Most importantly, every contribution counts towards our collective impact on the lives of our students and those who attend NPS.

Donation reporting: Divisions and departments can now self-report their Monarchs Give Back donations using our . Please submit your totals here. Your report helps us track our collective impact and recognize contributions across the university. Thank you for helping us reach our goal to Feed the Lion!