By Rhiannon Burns, Staff Writer
Bellarmine’s first Donor College takes place on Feb. 16 for the university’s donors. The event is invite-only, which gives the donors an experience to see how a normal day unfolds at Bellarmine University.
Marisa Zoeller, the director of donor relations, has worked on this project since the beginning.
“As a development office, we have different giving levels that you can contribute to as a donor,” Zoeller said. “The one that we concentrate most on to get donors engaged in the university is the President Society level. Dr. (Susan) Donovan wanted to create a new level of giving, so she developed the 1950 Society, which means that you give at least $1,950 a year.”
Members of the 1950 Society can attend their choice of nine morning classes, which will be taught by Bellarmine faculty members.
Zoeller said more than 60 donors will attend. Throughout the weekend, students can get to know those who contribute to Bellarmine.
“We decided this year, that we will do it in conjunction with homecoming because we have so many alumni and donors coming to campus with the events that are happening,” Zoeller said.
Peter Kremer, the Executive Director and Alumni Associate, discussed how students can get involved during the Donor College event.
“After the basketball game (on Saturday) we have the homecoming alumni event in Frazier Hall for all donors’ alumni, but it is more family-focused with inflatables and face painting so families can bring their kids and friends,” Kremer said.
“Later that evening we host a Young Alumni Knight event where all alumni who have graduated in the past 10 years can come, along with any seniors who plan to graduate in May.”
Kremer emphasized that a relationship with Bellarmine doesn’t need to end once a student graduates.
“Once you choose to be a part of the Bellarmine’s community and family that is a lifelong decision,” Kremer said.
Students are encouraged to speak to alumni and donors to meet new people and enjoy themselves.
Michael Strawser, the luncheon keynote speaker, will address “What does Gen Z mean for me?”
“My purpose will be to share with attendees, especially donors, a little about the post-millennial generation and help them think about how the influx of Gen Z in our university and workplaces will impact our culture at large,” Strawser said. “It is important that we all understand how today’s traditional student differs from the previous millennial generation.”
Bellarmine students, alumni and donors will leave the Donor College event with a stronger bond linking the three groups.