Auburn Family support will keep cadets rolling along

Tiger Giving Day, Auburn’s 24-hour online fundraising event, will boast a number of firsts this year, including an inaugural project from Auburn’s Army ROTC unit. Future Army officers like Katie Hayden, a senior law and justice major, are asking the Auburn Family to help cadets purchase a rugged, off-road vehicle.

“Our cadets train in remote, rugged environments,” Hayden said. “Without an off-road vehicle, it’s difficult to transport essential gear, water and personnel safely and efficiently. Tiger Giving Day is a perfect opportunity to rally support from the Auburn Family for a mission that directly improves safety, readiness and leadership development for future Army officers.”

Cadets currently use standard vehicles not built for off-road conditions. This limits how close they can get to training sites.

“It slows down operations, creates safety risks and adds unnecessary strain to both personnel and equipment, leaving room for potential injury,” Hayden said.

Auburn’s Army ROTC program is ranked among the top programs in the Southeast and boasts a legacy of training more than 8,000 commissioned officers. With a history steeped in tradition and military pride, today’s cadets look forward to connecting with the Auburn Family through Tiger Giving Day.

“This support means everything. It reminds us that we’re not training in isolation,” Hayden said. “We’re backed by a community that believes in our mission and the future of the country. Knowing that Auburn alumni, students and supporters stand with us motivates us to train harder, lead better and serve with pride. It’s a powerful reminder that our service starts here at home.”

Tiger Giving Day focuses on changing lives on campus, in our communities and across the state. This year’s event on Sept. 10 marks the 10th anniversary of Tiger Giving Day.

“This project is about more than just a vehicle,” Hayden said. “It’s about building capability and improving the future of the program. We’re proud to represent Auburn, and we’re grateful for the chance to partner with the Auburn Family to strengthen our program.”