Columbus State University’s beloved mascot, Cody the Cougar, turns 55 this year. In honor of his milestone birthday, he’s challenging alumni and friends to “give five” through the annual CSU Gives virtual fundraising campaign that begins on Tuesday, April 8.

Gifts of $5 or more will count toward the annual campaign, which seeks support for 15 academic, athletics and student success projects ranging from scholarships and student-athlete recruiting to a student health fund and resources to help make students more competitive in the job market.

“Cody has his special birthday wish list of 15 ways you can celebrate his birthday and help Columbus State students succeed in the classroom, on our athletics courts and fields, and in their future careers,” explained Aryah Buckman, assistant director of annual giving. “Pick a favorite to support or give a little to several—the choice is yours.”

Early online giving is now open at columbusstate.edu/csugives2025, where donors can pledge their support and see real-time giving progress toward each project. The CSU Alumni Association will provide updates and announce special giving challenges throughout the day on Facebook and Instagram.

This year’s goal is 550 donors—in honor of Cody’s 55th birthday. More than 556 donors made gifts during the 2024 CSU Gives campaign, exceeding its goal of 540 donors. It also set a new one-day university giving record of $208,000, more than triple that of any previous one-day giving campaign. 

CELEBRATION ON APRIL 9

The 24-hour giving campaign ends on Wednesday, April 9, when alumni, donors and fans are invited to celebrate Cody’s birthday at Cougar Field on Columbus State’s Main Campus. The party begins at 5 p.m. between the CSU Softball’s doubleheader against Fort Valley State University.

The party will feature photos with Cody and recently crowned Miss CSU Valeria Saer, free treats, inflatables and on-site concessions—and, of course, a round of “Happy Birthday, Cody” to celebrate his turning 55.

Admission to the party and softball games, which begin at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., are free for everyone. Fans are invited to wear red to show support for the softball team.