“Thank you for everything you do.” Groups Honor Women for DeSales at Annual Impact Lunch
Members of Women for DeSales are getting a firsthand look at how their contributions are making a real difference across campus.
The philanthropic giving circle held its annual impact lunch and heard from several of the faculty, staff, and students it has helped. This year, Women for DeSales has fully or partially funded 11 programs across campus, including an etiquette dinner and summer career internship for the Career Development Center.
“The etiquette dinner truly continues to help our students with professional development and growth. It would not be possible without the funds that you provide us with.”
The group also helped to fund a mission trip to Guatemala for 12 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students and two faculty, and it offset travel and registration fees for dance majors to attend the American College Dance Association’s national conference.
“It was very beneficial to be able to watch all these other schools and to see how dance can differentiate all across the country,” Hayley Martin, a senior dance major told the women as she thanked them. “It’s the ultimate experience to have as a college dance major.”
The group also heard from Father James Greenfield, OSFS ’84, president of DeSales, who is currently traveling abroad. He taped a special message thanking the “pioneering group of women” for their generosity and continued support.
Lina Barbieri, associate vice president for annual giving, started Women for DeSales in 2016 with 13 women. The group has grown to 33, with each participant committed to giving $1,000 or more annually to the fund.
“Clearly, Women for DeSales is having an impact on this campus,” she said. “It’s inspiring.”