Alumni participation celebrated during Philanthropy Week

Each November, Oglethorpe celebrates Philanthropy Week to build awareness and educate the campus community on the importance of giving and giving back. By promoting a culture of gratitude among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and donors, alike, the hope is to inspire ideas on how to make a difference.

Oglethorpe has prepared over 13,000 graduates to “Make a Life, Make a Living, and Make a Difference” in the world since its founding in 1835. Alumni continue to live by this motto by investing in the advancement of the university in various ways.

“I have remained involved with Oglethorpe by visiting and checking in on current students,” said Marc Collins ’23. “I give advice when I can and have even written recommendation letters for incoming students.”

The Oglethorpe Alumni Association promotes more formal ways to stay connected as well.

“I’ve continued to stay involved with Oglethorpe by serving two terms on the alumni board, volunteering at events such as alumni weekend, JEO and other scholarship weekends, and even sponsoring a career takeout for students,” said Emily Heed ’07. “I also attend alumni events like happy hours, game days, and the Evening of Holiday Enchantment.”

During Philanthropy Week, a series of events brought several alumni back to campus. These events included a week-long service project collecting canned food items for Petey’s Pantry and the Clarkston Community Center; a Make a Live. Make a Living. Make a Difference. Alumni Panel featuring four alumni who remain involved in the surrounding communities; and a volunteer appreciation breakfast for those who have dedicated their time to the university in some capacity over the past year.

We are grateful for the many ways alumni have shown up for current students during a fruitful fall semester. No matter the scope, your participation is integral to the institution and makes an extraordinary impact.

If you are unable to invest time, consider making a gift to support the future of Oglethorpe on GivingTuesday, November 28, 2023 and OU Giving Day on Oglethorpe Day, February 14, 2024.


View photos from the 2023 Philanthropy Week events

Philanthropy Week 2023