A message from the Advancement Officer
By Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ’25MLD
There is something special about the start of a new academic year, especially at The Woods. The sight of students pulling through the front gates, the excitement of new classes, seeing friends reunite and even the familiar nervousness of wondering what the year will bring can bring us right back to our own school days.
For many of us, this time of year might be a reminder of the people, places and experiences that shaped who we are today. Perhaps you remember a professor who encouraged you to dream big, a friend who became family, a campus tradition you still cherish or when you experienced your own Avenue Moment(s).
As an advancement officer at SMWC, the start of a new academic year also reminds me why philanthropy matters so much. Behind every gift is a mission. Your generosity is not simply a dollar amount. It represents a student who has an opportunity to pursue an education, a scholarship that makes college more accessible, a program that inspires learning or an experience that helps a student discover their purpose. Together, we are driving the mission of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
When you make a gift, I encourage you to remember why you made your gift. Think about the people who invested in you and helped you become the person you are today. Think about the experiences you had because someone believed in you and wanted you to pursue your dreams. Your gift allows you to pay that belief forward.
As a new generation of students begins their journey, your generosity helps ensure they have the same opportunity to learn, grow and make memories.
The school year starts with a student stepping onto campus, but the impact of philanthropy begins with someone choosing to believe in a student’s future.
To all of our donors, thank you for remembering the mission behind your gift. Thank you for helping make a difference in the lives of Woods students, today.
There are multiple ways to make a gift to the Woods Fund:
- Make a one-time gift by visiting giving.smwc.edu
- Fulfill your pledge by visiting giving.smwc.edu or call 888-769-0013