Opening Doors for the Next Generation of Bearcats 

A UC education extends far beyond the classroom. It's shaped by the relationships, discoveries and defining moments that stay with us long after graduation. For generations, alumni and friends have played an important role in enriching the lives of students, so that future Bearcats can benefit from the same life-changing experiences that shaped our own journeys.

This fall, UC introduced the UC Promise scholarship match, a new initiative that builds on this tradition of generosity. Through the program, the university will match annual awards from qualifying new endowed scholarships for Ohio undergraduate students with financial need, effectively doubling the scholarship support available to recipients. It's another meaningful way UC is expanding access to education and helping students pursue their goals.

As we look ahead to Giving Tuesday on Dec. 1, we have another opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and the university community we share. Whether supporting scholarships, academic programs, athletics, health and well-being or any of the many UC causes that matter most to us, every gift strengthens our university and the people who make it extraordinary.

Our connection to UC doesn't end at graduation. It continues through the ways we give back, lift others up and open doors for future generations. Together, we can ensure that the same philanthropic spirit that has shaped UC continues to inspire and transform lives for years to come. That's what it means to be Bearcats for Life.

More than 32,800 donors gave a record $311.9 million to UC and UC Health in fiscal year 2026. The Foundation’s annual report highlights support for scholarships, research, student programs, and other university priorities. 

Leaders from UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub shared insights on entrepreneurship and innovation at StartupCincy Week 2026. UC students also contributed perspectives on emerging technology and the region’s startup community. 

Help spread the word about Giving Tuesday on Dec. 1 by becoming a UC ambassador. Share your Bearcat pride with friends, family and fellow alumni using ready-to-share resources and a personalized referral link, with opportunities to win prizes along the way.

Communication design student Layne Wagner, DAAP ’29, completed a co-op with Populous, contributing to design projects that included work for the Baltimore Orioles’ ballpark. The global firm is led by UC alumnus Bruce Miller, DAAP ’88.

Through the UC Alumni Association's C-Paw License Plate Program, Ohio alumni and friends can display their Bearcat pride and help fund student scholarships in the process.

A gift from the Charles L. Shor Foundation will support UC Health’s Epilepsy Center and Osher Center for Integrative Health. The funding advances neurological care and integrative health services.

Elementary education major Kendyll Roberts-Rosser, CECH ’28, discovered a passion for teaching while working with horses and young riders. She now brings that experience to her studies and serves as president of UC’s equestrian club.

The UC men’s basketball team will take on Clemson in the Cincinnati Clash on Dec. 19 at Heritage Bank Center. Alumni can purchase discounted tickets while supplies last using promo code ALUMNI.

UC Blue Ash College recognized faculty, staff, and alumni at its 2026 Distinguished Awards ceremony. Honorees included Mark Brueggeman, UCBA ’79, Bus ’81, recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award.

UC’s new Center for Environmental Engagement connects communities facing disproportionate environmental risks with faculty expertise and resources. The interdisciplinary initiative brings research and community partnerships together to address local needs.

An emergency medicine physician received a five-year, $2.5 million NIH grant to lead a multisite trial of a wellness program for family caregivers for people with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury.

As demolition continues on UC’s iconic Crosley Tower, alumni, students and faculty are sharing memories of the campus landmark. Built in 1969, the tower will make way for a new STEM Academic Facility, expected to open in 2029.