University Celebrates Loyal Donors
By Nanette L. Cormier
They gathered with enthusiasm to see what all the fuss was about. And when they heard the Chancellor speak, they knew. "As chancellor, I get to talk to a lot of audiences about UMass Boston, but this is the first time – the very first time – that I have spoken to a group that has a record like yours." For twenty years – and in some cases, even longer– members of the assembled group have made an annual charitable gift to UMass Boston. "You are indeed exceptional," he added.
The honored 109 donors have been a vital part of the university community for nearly half of the forty-four years that have passed since its founding in 1965. And over the course of those years their collective charitable donations have totaled more than $5.8 million.
Those numbers tell only part of the story. Philanthropic gifts have ultimately benefited a multitude of entities and individuals across our campus. They have provided a steady source of financial support to our schools and colleges, individual academic departments, research institutes and centers, public service initiatives, faculty, and undergraduate and graduate students. Over the years, these annual gifts have made possible scholarships, fellowships, books, technology, equipment, conferences, and academic awards.
Alumni Association President William Walczak, CEO of the Codman Square Health Center, shared the Alumni Assocation's thanks to those present. He was joined at the podium by Jim and Marie O’Sullivan, members of the Class of 1980 and a university "love story." Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, Ellen O'Connor presented on the university's master plan and shared recent sketches for its new Integrated Science Center.
Rebecca Dorson '85, in her 90's, cherished the chance to touch base with the UMass Boston of today. Not unlike many non-traditional students, she graduated from the College of Public and Community Service when she was 73 years old. That moment in her life launched a second career in gerontology. Carol Rainwater felt similar gratitude; UMass Boston opened a landscape of opportunities after "life" interrupted her college pursuits years ago. She believes the university's mission is so vital that she would support it even if she were not a graduate.
"As I look around the room, I see the faces of proud graduates of UMass Boston, Teachers College of the City of Boston, and Boston State College, and members of our dedicated staff, faculty, and retired faculty. I know some of you as colleagues with whom I have consulted and collaborated on so many projects. Others have earned reputations on our campus as esteemed researchers and educators who bring out the best in our students. Some are active alumni volunteers, while others are graduates that I look forward to meeting for the first time this evening," the Chancellor said.
"Tonight, we celebrate each of you for setting a high standard for continued charitable support. For all that you have done, and continue to do, you have the immense respect, admiration, and gratitude of the University of Massachusetts Boston."
To learn about the UMass Boston Fund and its Chancellor's Council contact:
Kelly Westerhouse
Director, UMass Boston Fund
617-297-5342
Make a gift
Meet Kelly