We Stand Together—it’s a mantra we’ve heard time and again this past month as our world deals with the impact of COVID-19.

For the University of Iowa, this has always rung true. Whatever successes we celebrate or challenges we may face, Hawkeyes do it together. From the moment we shifted to virtual instruction and our health care workers were called to the front lines of this fight against the coronavirus, alumni and friends from around the world have offered help, through words of encouragement, offers of personal protective equipment, donations, and so much more.

Our mission at the UI Center for Advancement is to advance this remarkable institution through engagement and philanthropy. That means we are committed to connecting with everyone who loves the UI—alumni, fans, patients, art lovers, students, parents, and friends—through programming, events, and opportunities to give back. In the past few weeks, as our need for support has increased substantially, my colleagues and I have witnessed and facilitated inspiring acts of generosity—a wonderful bright spot in these uncertain times.

With help from campus colleagues and organizations, we were able to establish two emergency funds: the UI Student Life Emergency Fund and the UI Health Care Staff Emergency Fund. Our alumni and friends quickly answered our call, donating more than $100,000 to help members of our campus community address their most urgent needs.

Just this past week, we received word of a $2 million donation from the Richard O. Jacobson Foundation, which will support current and future expenses associated with diagnosing, preventing, and treating the COVID-19 virus.

While all of this has been incredibly moving and reassuring, it’s hardly surprising. That’s because this university—and its pioneering research, education, and patient care—has long been backed by the generosity of its alumni and friends. For generations, philanthropic Hawkeyes have shaped this university and the Iowa experience. And I know this will continue for generations to come.

Although we may be physically separated right now, our commitment to one another has never been stronger. I’m grateful to all Hawkeyes who, through their generosity, are ensuring there will be brighter days ahead.

Lynette Marshall is president and chief executive officer of the University of Iowa Center for Advancement.