This story appeared in the 2021 President’s Report of Onyx Anneau.
By Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98, Associate Vice President for Advancement
Committed alumni and donors have contributed more than $1.1 million to the Woods Fund annually since 2016. The Woods Fund Circle illustrates the trend of donor groups and fundraising efforts contributing to the sustained success.
The size of a sphere inside the circle to the right illustrates its significance in relation to overall fundraising results.*
There is overlap and intersection of both donor groups and efforts, as very few initiatives are supported solely by alumni. Many donors respond to multiple opportunities, such as a class agent’s appeal and the Onyx Anneau. And some donor groups consist of both alumni and non-alumni, such as the Trustees and SMWC employees.
Giving is a uniquely personal experience. What motivates and inspires one person may have no effect on another. Knowing this, SMWC reaches out in a variety of ways throughout the year inviting alumni and friends to join us in supporting today’s students with a gift to the Woods Fund.
The Woods Fund Circle tells a story. It identifies who is supporting the Woods Fund and what has inspired giving. With many opportunities to get involved, the Circle features those solicitations and events that continue to garner the most support.
It is no surprise that alumni gifts account for approximately 70% of the more than $1.1 million that has been donated annually since 2016. Likewise, two of our most successful events, #WoodsGivingDay and 50th Reunion gifts, represent 30% of the total raised each year.
Timing plays a key role in one’s ability and inclination to make a gift. Late November and December are consistently the most successful months in fundraising as donors finalize their personal philanthropy during this season of giving. Traditionally, our fiscal year ended with a surge of gifts given at Reunion. This trend is shifting with substantial gifts arriving earlier in the year thanks to February’s #WoodsGivingDay.
Gifts immediately make a difference. The outside of the Woods Fund Circle highlights their effect, ultimately creating an annual cycle of giving. As we strive to build a culture of philanthropy among our students and alumni, continued success will not only support today’s students, but increase our potential in the future.
When you consider supporting the Woods Fund, know that every ask is an opportunity to connect, every gift makes a difference and every student is supported.