What would happen if our entire global community supported our cause — supported our mission to prepare women and men to lead and serve throughout the world? Would our world become a better place? Would more students have the opportunities to cultivate a bright future like yours? Would we become a leading, global institution renowned worldwide for centuries to come?
With these questions, the Valpo community arose on April 8, ready to take on a new day and a new challenge. And they did just that, as nearly 2,500 alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents, and friends participated in the University’s second annual Day of Giving, Proud to be Valpo, with countless more who showed their pride and appreciation on campus and via social media.“The Valpo communication and music departments and professors equipped me with the knowledge and ability to successfully navigate the entertainment industry,” says Andrew Forni ’02, editor and narrator for “The Taste,” ABC’s culinary show. “The Valpo experience will continue to be an invaluable asset for the rest of my life.”
Throughout the day, 2,414 donors participated, raising more than $532,000 to support student scholarships, athletics and academic programs, campus and leadership growth, and more. Thanks to the generosity of Ed ’68 and Janice ’68 Wesemann, $50,000 in matching gifts inspired the global community and myriad first-time donors to rally around Valpo’s mission and vision on a single day.
“Valpo gave us more than an education,” Ed says. “We’re proud that Valpo was the foundation on which we built our lives. Giving to Valpo allows us the opportunity to partially pay back what we gained there while helping to make that experience available to others.”
Back on campus, students, faculty, and staff showed their pride through a variety of activities and events. The Union served as the hub for the day, as members of the community took selfies in the photo booth and signed the Proud to be Valpo banner, showing their thanks and appreciation for our generous donors. Even students studying abroad showed their pride and gratitude via social media.“I’m celebrating #valpoday all the way from Windhoek, Namibia,” says Miranda Joebgen ’16. “Valpo has provided me with so many incredible opportunities that have changed my life. Thank you so much to everyone who makes Valpo the outstanding University that it is today.”
In addition, students participated in the CanStruction competition, building Valpo-themed structures with cans and non-perishable items that were collected on campus throughout the week. Hundreds of pounds of food were collected and donated to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, and President Heckler declared Christ College as the winner.
Overall, Proud to be Valpo was a tremendous display of Valpo pride and appreciation, a meaningful reminder to the community both on campus and around the world that the Valpo spirit is alive and thriving.
“There are countless reasons to be proud of this University today and every day, but I can think of one that is above all else: the members of this exceptional community. It’s because of you that I always have been and will continue to be Proud to be Valpo,” President Heckler says.