A student wearing a commencement cap and gown hugs a family member.

Parents and Families Giving

From move-in day to graduation...

...parents and families play an integral role in supporting and enhancing their children’s experiences. Giving to Grinnell is another way parents make a difference.

We invite you to join in the stewardship efforts that sustain a distinctive Grinnell education. We would love for you to be a part of Grinnell’s philanthropic success by making a gift to the Pioneer Fund!

We recognize and acknowledge the sacrifices you have made to invest in your student’s future at Grinnell, and we pledge to use your donation wisely.


Dr. Brent and Peggy Lew

“We give to Grinnell because our donation makes a difference and helps contribute to the countless opportunities that are given to its students.”

Dr. Brent and Peggy Lew
Parents of Bryce ‘19 and Scott ‘22


Arc of Parents and Families Giving

Optimize your philanthropy to Grinnell by structuring the size and complexity of your gifts each year. This chart outlines a giving strategy popular among Grinnell families.

An arrow arching upward to the right then starting to flatten like arc. with 5 points call out by numbers starting with 1 in the lower left..

  1. Make your first gift to the Pioneer Fund.
  2. Consider increasing your gifts to the Pioneer Fund in subsequent years.
  3. Add your support for friends, groups, and special projects, according to your student’s experiences and interests.
  4. Your Capstone Gift: As your student prepares for life postgraduation, consider the ways your family can leave a legacy, such as funding a special project, a campaign commitment, or planned giving opportunities. As appropriate, involve your student in the philanthropic process.
  5. Ongoing: Continue Pioneer Fund giving and consider gift planning opportunities.

Start your journey along the Arc of Parents Giving by supporting Grinnell with a gift today.


Parents and Families Leadership Council

Matt, Noah, Will, Emily, and Henry ’25 Coen
Matt, Noah, Will, Emily, and Henry ’25 Coen

The purpose of the Grinnell College Parents and Families Leadership Council (PFLC) is to engage with families of our students to cultivate support for the College and our commitment to providing a meaningful, individualized education in a diverse and socially aware community. Members participate in targeted development and outreach activities to raise awareness of and secure resources for the philanthropic priorities of Grinnell College. Learn more about the unique volunteering opportunity. 


Hopkins Kaneoka Family posing for a picture after Sean Hopkins ’22 commencement.

Family Capstone Giving

Consider this special way to honor your senior student and celebrate their accomplishments with a gift to support an area of Grinnell College that is meaningful to your family. Learn more about this unique giving opportunity.


Parent Giving Stories

Betty Barker and Dan Fost, with Harry Barker-Fost '23 behind. Betty Barker and Dan Fost

“We decided this would be a great way to get involved and stay connected to our son who was going to college far away.”

California couple embrace hosting Grinnell parent receptions

Grinnell College Laural Leaves logo used to break up content. A single laurel leaf sits centered on the page.

Monique Shore ’90, right; Craig Shore, center; and Moraine Shore ’23; second from left, got acquainted with Yiwei “Vivien” Yan ‘26 and Gabriela Risnawska ‘26Craig and Monique Shore ’90

“The times we are living in are problematic, but getting to know these students gives you hope for the future. They have that Grinnell spark.”

Right at home in Grinnell

Grinnell College Laural Leaves logo used to break up content. A single laurel leaf sits centered on the page.

Lynn and Gene Dixon-Anderson flank their son Ian at Ian's commencement at Grinnell College. Gene ’83 and Lynn ’84 Dixon-Anderson

“We are definitely proponents of the small school approach and the liberal arts education. And while we mainly did sports, it’s nice that Grinnell brings so much music, dance, art, and culture to campus for students to experience and participate in. In such a small place, it’s neat that they can provide that level of activity to students.”

From swimming to the sciences, the Dixon-Anderson family shares a love of Grinnell