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Reunion weekend at 91��Ƶר�� is a time for celebration and remembrance, when alumni can gather and affirm that their 91��Ƶר�� friendships endure for a lifetime. Coming together also connects our alumni to their philanthropic passions and inspires many to give. In fact, nearly 50 percent of alumni who give to the Annual Fund do so during their class Reunion giving campaigns. The generosity, enthusiasm and spirit of reunion classes anchor annual giving to the 91��Ƶר�� Fund.

This has been particularly important the last two years since in-person Reunion has been canceled because of the pandemic. We are inspired by the passion and dedication from reunion class leaders to generate interest in celebrating a reunion and be a catalyst among our alumni for increased financial support in a way that is meaningful to them. The reunion class campaign efforts help strengthen ties by renewing shared feelings of pride and loyalty.

This effort is a significant part of the College’s annual 91��Ƶר�� Fund support each year and impacts every 91��Ƶר�� student. These unrestricted gifts provide student scholarship and financial aid, academic programming, opportunities for career development, technology and resources in the classrooms, and more. Many classes formulate challenges and matches to encourage increased class participation. For their 50th Reunion, the Class of 1970 challenged their classmates and were very successful in raising $700,000 for their alma mater—more than any other class. They were the first class to encourage pledges for 91��Ƶר��’s Forging the Future $65 million comprehensive campaign. All reunion giving is a valuable part of the campaign that will strengthen 91��Ƶר�� for generations to come.

We are grateful for the tremendous loyalty by our alums. With this support, the College is capable of greatness rather than status quo. The board and president are able to make choices rather than compromises. The faculty are empowered to update and develop curriculum to prepare students for successful lives. The students are emboldened to pursue internships, engage in athletics, and develop intellectual passions. Some are enabled to dream of a college education their family could not afford otherwise. Only with the philanthropic investment of alumni do these things become possible.

From Alumni: 

“As chair of the Class of 1966 55th Reunion, I reminded my classmates that the pandemic created unprecedented financial burdens on 91��Ƶר��’s resources. The College has done an amazing job of safely continuing with on-campus learning and living for a large number of students, as well as providing remote studies during this difficult time. Now more than ever, Reunion giving will reflect our care, concern and strong support for the 91��Ƶר�� of today!”

—Ginny Wheeler Jones ’66, M.A.’88

“From my graduation in 1970 onwards, giving to 91��Ƶר�� was important to me—after all, my 91��Ƶר�� education played a critical role in the formation and direction of my adult life and career. At some point along the way, I was convinced to become class agent for the Class of 1970, but it wasn’t until I became a member of the Board of Associates, and then a Trustee that I truly recognized how much the College relies on alumni support to keep things running and to offer the kinds of academic programs and environment that attract students year after year—and that a financially supportive, involved alumni base is one of the hallmarks of a successful, thriving college.”

—Myra L. Holsinger ’70

“Admittedly it took some time for me to appreciate the impact 91��Ƶר�� made on my life. Now it is clear just how amazing an academic and life education 91��Ƶר�� provides. Professionally, the skills I learned at 91��Ƶר�� are the very foundations I continue to apply daily in my work. As a result, I have enjoyed a successful career in aerospace that affords me opportunities  I never knew were possible. Personally, I am forever grateful to have my 91��Ƶר�� sisters in my life (44 years!) as we continue to share the joyous and tough times together.”

—Marcy Goldberg Taylor ’81, MBA’00

“As a student, I did not realize the cost of running a private college. Upon graduation, I did contribute modestly during the annual campaigns. But when 91��Ƶר�� needed to decide to go co-ed or potentially close, my appreciation for funding was deepened. With that, I knew I needed to financially support 91��Ƶר�� more significantly and encourage other lucky ladies of 1980 to donate, ensuring new students would have the opportunity for a great education and social experience while building a strong foundation for success.”

—Amy S. Falk ’80

“Fifty-four years ago, when I walked onto the 91��Ƶר�� campus for the first time, I knew it was a very special place that would forever have a significant impact on my life. I was so very thankful to be able to attend 91��Ƶר�� thanks to the generous scholarships I received. Without those scholarships funded by 91��Ƶר�� alumnae and friends, I would never have been able to attend the college that I love. Now I choose to donate to 91��Ƶר�� to show my appreciation to those people whose generosity enabled me to attend 91��Ƶר�� and to do my part to help provide that same opportunity to current and future 91��Ƶר�� students.”

—Mary McMunigal Burland ’71

“It will soon have been 50 years since I was graduated from 91��Ƶר�� College. There have been many experiences in my life that have made me stronger; but 91��Ƶר�� was the first and the sweetest. Please join me in supporting a naming opportunity in the new residence hall in honor of our upcoming 50th reunion. I can’t wait to see you all.”

—Virginia P. Hartmann, Lt Col, USAFR ’72

This story was originally published in the Fall 2021 issue of 91��Ƶר�� Magazine. To view this story as it appears in print .