The Valparaiso University Guild commits to enhancing the student experience while exemplifying the University’s ideals of scholarship, freedom, and faith.
Guild members are alumni, parents, employees, and friends of the University. The Guild has 1100 members nationwide that are dedicated to serving Valpo students. Members work independently or in groups to serve, fundraise and promote Valparaiso University.
In 1931, women associated with VU met on campus and decided to create a national organization called the National Women’s Committee of the Lutheran University Association, which was the precursor to the Valparaiso University Guild. The Guild was formed as an independent group organized to serve the University. This service included recruiting students, hosting parties and benefits in various parts of the country and hosting choir tours. The first three chapters were formed in Ft. Wayne, IN; Appleton, WI; and Detroit, MI.
Since 1931 the Guild has served Valparaiso University. Guild women have organized hundreds of fundraisers, hosted thousands of events and funded several significant campus spaces. Students have appreciated the tokens of tender loving care the Guild has given them through cakes, care packages, cards or a meal off campus.
In May 2006, members met on campus to celebrate the organization’s 75th anniversary and approve a new structure for the organization. The new structure is designed to better meet the needs of Valpo students and modern volunteers.
It is because of the students, the Guild exists. Members are motivated by the scholarships, grants and service that can be done to enhance the student experience.