More than $40,000 was raised for University of Oregon academic and Alumni Association programs in just 97 hours as UO donors stepped up in the Ducks vs. Bucks Giving Challenge.

“I am humbled by the generosity, and am excited to watch as these gifts are put to use all across campus,” said Rick Ericson, director of UO Annual Philanthropy. “It’s wonderful to see so many people rallying behind this great university and supporting its academic mission.

The UO received 577 gifts during the challenge, which started Friday and went through Tuesday morning, losing to Ohio State. Each donor selected from a variety of areas, ranging from specific schools to scholarships to student clubs. UOAA memberships counted towards the goal.

The amount raised in just over four days was more than UO Annual Giving received in the entire month of January 2013.