Alumni and friends from the Des Moines area took part in a lively celebration Thursday at The Temple for Performing Arts that introduced The Campaign for Grinnell College.
Hosted by Trustee Connie Wimer and her husband, Frank Fogarty, the event demonstrated how Grinnellians come together to serve the College and the greater good.
“Colleges have a great responsibility when it comes to our education, because education both informs and empowers,” President Raynard S. Kington told the audience of about 125 Grinnell alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the College. “At Grinnell, we are especially committed to providing an education that empowers. We believe an education should challenge our assumptions about the world and about ourselves”
That was certainly true for Angela Frimpong ’20, who eloquently spoke about her journey from Ghana to Grinnell.
“When I got to Grinnell, I found a place where you could come as you are,” she said. “People don’t judge you here, and everyone is here to learn and support one another. It is my hope that you realize your support is helping to write stories like mine. Your support helped secure my financial aid package, helped me advance and grow academically, and put me on a pathway where I can focus on opportunities and grow professionally.”
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. Sarah Fischer, director of admission, chatted about Office of Admission initiatives, while Political Science Professor Barbara Trish brought attendees up to speed on the Rosenfield Program. French Professor David Harrison explained how Grinnell’s Global Learning Programs has led to increased cultural awareness and wider world views. Jaci Thiede, vice president for development and alumni relations, 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.