BGSU recognizes donors at celebratory weekend events

More than 300 members of the Falcon Family recognized for philanthropic support

More than 300 members of the Falcon Family joined BGSU on Sept. 8 and 9 to be recognized for their philanthropic support of the University.

On Friday evening, President Mary Ellen Mazey hosted a reception for members of the BGSU’s Donor Recognition Societies: The Presidents Club, which recognizes donors with lifetime giving of $15,000 or more; Leadership Circle, people who made gifts of $1,000 or more last fiscal year; Carillon Society, people who made gifts for three years or more; and the 1910 Society, donors who support BGSU with planned gifts.

On Saturday, donors were recognized at a luncheon and program where the BGSU community said “thank you.” R. Max Williamson ’59, chair of the BGSU Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors, spoke to the audience about his own BGSU experience as one of 11 siblings who all attended the University and connected that bond to his own Falcon philanthropy and service.  

Junior Hannah Finnerty talked about the many ways scholarship support has helped her reach her full academic and leadership potential and thanked the audience for helping her make her dream of a BGSU education come true.

Members of the Falcon Family provided more than $23.1 million in support to the University in fiscal year 2017 (July 1, 2016 on June 30, 2017.) A total of 13,808 individuals (including alumni, friends and students) and 498 corporations and foundations strengthened BGSU with their philanthropic support.

From student scholarships and professorships, to building enhancements and Athletics support, every part of the BGSU community benefited last year from the generosity of alumni and friends. BGSU advocates such as Leadership Council members, alumni network leaders, Board of Trustees members and Campus Campaign leaders embraced and advanced a culture of philanthropy as the University prepares for success in the Changing Lives for the World comprehensive campaign.

Another important component of the 2017 fundraising success was the number of University events that provided venues for philanthropy. The annual Bravo! BG event showcased the robust University Arts community while raising more than $60,000 for student scholarships. Alumni who graduated 50 years ago or more were welcomed to the Golden Falcons Reunion where many of the alumni made gifts to help today’s students. Graduating seniors earned the title of "Forever Falcon" for choosing to make their first gift the BGSU while still students.

“We are fortunate that so many members of the Falcon Family support the University’s continued emphasis on academic excellence,” said President Mary Ellen Mazey. “As we move forward with our Changing Lives for the World comprehensive campaign, it is my hope that every member of the Falcon Family will support this campus with their time, treasure or talent.”