Celebrate Giving Tuesday with the New England Gator Club®
As we reflect on all that we’ve accomplished this year, it’s clear that the Gator spirit is alive and thriving in New England. Today, on Giving Tuesday, I’m excited to share how you can continue making a difference through the New England Gator Club®.
One of the accomplishments we’re most proud of this year is the revival of our scholarship program. After five years without awarding scholarships, we’re thrilled to have supported three incredible students with $1,000 scholarships each. These awards are helping to make the dream of attending the University of Florida a reality for students like Lynn McCoy, one of this year’s recipients.
Lynn’s story is one of passion, service, and resilience. From captaining her high school cross-country and track teams to organizing community service projects for Cradles to Crayons and local veterans, Lynn embodies what it means to be a Gator: hardworking, driven, and committed to making a difference.
Beyond her athletic achievements and leadership roles, Lynn’s dedication to addressing healthcare disparities stands out. She’s already set her sights on pursuing a Health Science major at UF, with plans to dive into healthcare equity through coursework, study abroad opportunities, and service projects.
Lynn shared how her journey to UF began:
“When I was in sixth grade, I toured the University of Florida with my older sister. Although UF wasn’t the right fit for her, I fell in love. From the collegiate Gothic architecture to the successful sports teams, everything about UF struck me. I knew from that moment I was going to be a Gator with everything in me.”
Helping students like Lynn achieve their dreams is why we do what we do. But we can’t do it alone.
How You Can Support Our Efforts
This Giving Tuesday, we’re asking for your support to continue expanding our impact. Donations to the New England Gator Club® directly support:
Our Scholarship Endowment Fund, which ensures we can provide ongoing financial assistance to deserving students like Lynn.
Our Operations Fund, which helps us host events, foster community connections, and give back through service projects.
Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference. With your help, we can strengthen our Gator community and keep building something truly special.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Not ready to donate? That’s okay! There are so many ways to stay connected and support our club:
Attend an Upcoming Event: Join us for the Fireside Chat in December, featuring the Interim Dean of the College of Engineering, Forrest Masters, and Chair of Biomedical Engineering, Cherie Stabler.
Volunteer: We’re always looking for new board members and volunteers to help us expand our reach.
Spread the Word: Share this post with other Gators and Gator fans in New England to grow our network!
Let’s Make This Giving Tuesday Count
Together, we’ve already raised over $2,539 this year, and every additional dollar brings us closer to helping even more students and communities. Let’s keep this momentum going—because when Gators give, Gators grow.
Thank you for being part of our New England Gator family and for considering making a contribution today. Whether it’s through your time, resources, or enthusiasm, your support means the world.
Go Gators!
Tyrel Clayton
President, New England Gator Club®
