A message from the Advancement Officer
By Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ’25MLD
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” Dr. King also said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” I’m a firm believer in the idea that as humans, we are called to serve others and be the best that we can be – regardless of the individual meaning to each of us.
When I come to work every day, I am reminded that my colleagues and I serve at a place that not only focuses on building servant leaders but also invests in them as people too. Speaking from my own experience, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the leaders and mentors I gained through Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. Furthermore, I wouldn’t be in the position I am in without the empowerment that was instilled in me. That is why I continue to invest in the lives of future Woods students.
As we come off a VERY successful Woods Giving Day, with more than 1,500 donors and $1.9 million raised, we’re reminded that the mission of SMWC wouldn’t be possible without the support of our donors. From all of us at The Woods, THANK YOU to all who supported WGD ’26. The generosity displayed throughout the early giving period and on Woods Giving Day shows that we [The Woods family] strive forward together as we journey through the promises and miles we have to go.
Did you miss out on the excitement of Woods Giving Day? You can still impact SMWC students and help us reach our $3 million Woods Fund goal by June 30, 2026.
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