By Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ’25MLD
What a year it has been! From welcoming new students and their families at the beginning of the academic year to celebrating accomplishments, including Ring Day and Commencement, the 2024-25 fiscal year has been one to remember at The Woods. As I continue to learn more in my role as Advancement Officer, I’ve been witness to the great strides the institution has made this year.

We called, and you answered – literally! The 10th annual Woods Giving Day, or WGD-X, was a success as students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends rallied together to exceed the goals of reaching 1,200 donors and raising $1 million towards the day.
With a record-breaking fundraising year in our grasp, we are on track to reach the $3 million goal for the Woods Fund, which was announced last year. You can still be a part of the efforts for this year! If you still need to make your gift or fulfill a pledge, you have plenty of time.
- To make your gift, visit giving.smwc.edu
- To fulfill your pledge, visit giving.smwc.edu or call 888-769-0013
Ultimately, a successful fundraising year isn’t a box that has been checked. It is proof that the culture of philanthropy is thriving at SMWC. It is a result of the Woods family uniting, and for that, I say thank you. Thank you for your continued support of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and its mission as we continue to fulfill the promises and miles we have to go.