A class is being taught outside in the learning grove outside the HSSC. Text: Thank you Grinnellians!

Students reflect on how giving enhanced their Grinnell experiences

Thanks to the generosity of alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of Grinnell College, more than $24 million in gifts and commitments was raised in fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024). How does all this support effect the student experience? Four students explain what it means to them.

Zachary Spindler-Krage ’25 sings during a voice lesson.

“Many of the opportunities have only existed because of donations. I think that the impact of donations is difficult to quantify since the lasting impacts are often indirect. Donors create ripples – your donations change people, who subsequently go on to change other people. Grinnellians seem to do a great job recognizing the potential they have to create positive change, as long as they are afforded the chance to try.”

– Zachary Spindler-Krage ’25

Destant Best ’25 smiles while holding a green snake.

“The internship provided me with countless opportunities to contribute to projects that had a real impact on the environment and the world around us. It opened my eyes to new opportunities in fields I didn’t know existed. I really made the most of the internship because I was open to new opportunities, and I’ll continue to live with that concept in mind. It was a life-changing experience.”

– Destany Best ’25 whose internship studying biodiversity and conservation in Southeast Asia was funded by the Professor Andrew Hsieh Career Exploration Fund

Emily Brewer ’24 rises for a set during a Pioneer Women's basketball game.

“The athletics department at Grinnell makes me proud by taking charge of the heart of the College’s mission. I have always felt heard and free to express my opinions, which allows everyone to facilitate an open exchange of ideas. Additionally, coaches and student-athletes often lead the charge in social change on campus and are highly involved in things outside of athletics, which makes for a more cohesive and interactive student body and has personally brought me many great relationships in various groups on campus.”

– Emily Brewer ’24, Grinnell College volleyball player 

Jasiah Villalta ’26 speaks during an interview in the library.

“Grinnell has given me the space to grow and flourish in a way I would never have back home. I feel like I’ve been able to experience a great leadership role with SGA. I’ve been in so many different spaces and have been talking to so many different people who have given me all the support that I need. I think that statement ‘I stand on the shoulders of giants’ is so real here, and I’m so grateful for that.”

– Jasiah Villalta ’26 who was featured in a video with Isabelle Kolleth ’24.