Alumni and friends from the New York area took part in a lively celebration Wednesday at the Metropolitan Pavilion that introduced The Campaign for Grinnell College.
Hosted by David Maxwell ’66, chair of the Board of Trustees, the event demonstrated how Grinnellians come together to serve the College and the greater good.
Among the speakers during the program was Campaign Committee Co-Chair and Trustee Michael Kahn ’74, who talked about Grinnell’s deep commitment to diversity and access.
“I’m proud of the fact that the College provides all kinds of resources to help students succeed and thrive after being admitted,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of how many Grinnellians spend a lifetime dedicated to the greater good, caring about and helping lift up others. Grinnellians don’t just have good values and good hearts; they act on the things they believe in.”
During a highly engaging presentation, Kesho Scott, associate professor of American studies and sociology, said she had the honor of teaching some of the smartest people in the world under the College’s mission of social justice and higher education for humanity.
“This opportunity to teach has enriched my life professionally and personally,” she said. “Student tell me and so many of my colleague that we professors made a difference in their lives as mentors. Is that right? Then keep that in mind and remember the preciousness of that learning moment when you participate in the campaign, so that the next generations of alums can go out and enrich our world and planet.”
The comprehensive campaign encompasses all gifts made to the College from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2021. There are six philanthropic campaign priorities: Scholarships and Financial Aid; Individually Advised Teaching and Learning; the Center for Careers, Life, and Service (CLS); the Institute for Global Engagement (IGE); World-Class Facilities; and the Pioneer Fund.
Event attendees also had a chance to directly interact with College leaders at several engagement zones. Joe Bagnoli, vice president for enrollment and dean of admission and financial aid, chatted about scholarships and financial aid, while Mark Peltz, Finkelman Dean of Careers, Life, and Service, discussed how CLS staff members work with students to design a life that encompasses their personal, professional, and civic ambitions. Scott explained how the College has created an academic model for sustained discovery and meaningful contributions. President Raynard S. Kington talked with guests about the campaign and the opportunity to get involved.
Thank you for being with us. With your partnership, we are ensuring current and future Grinnellians have the kind of life-changing opportunities and experiences that will enable them to pursue their purposes, passions, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
We truly believe that together, we are greater.