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Roberts Wesleyan University Recognizes First Cohort of President’s Circle Donors, Totaling $9.88M in Gifts
Ceremony held to recognize generous donors who have given more than $100,000 in their lifetime to the institution
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — On Sept. 23, Roberts Wesleyan University hosted its inaugural reception of President’s Circle donors, recognizing the generous contributions of many alumni, business leaders and friends of the university, totaling $9.88 million in gifts benefiting Roberts Wesleyan students and the campus community. The President's Circle is a new level of philanthropic membership for families who have granted more than $100,000 in gifts to the institution throughout their lifetime which have directly supported student scholarships, building projects, campus resources, endowments and more.
The first cohort of President’s Circle donors represents 50 families, who will remain anonymous, including numerous alumni couples representing graduation years from the early 1950s to the late 2000s, as well as many local business leaders. The donations to Roberts Wesleyan University, a private, Christ-centered institution, help to transform concepts and ideas into tangible solutions and services that will add value to the future of the university and the Greater Rochester community.
“Ever since the early days in the 19th century, alumni and friends of the institution have faithfully supported the work of Roberts and Northeastern with regular giving that carries our mission forward. There are some extraordinary individuals and families who have gone above and beyond for our mission, just like founders Benjamin Titus and Ellen Roberts and one of the early donors in 1885, A.M. Chesbrough,” said Deana L. Porterfield, President of Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary. “This inaugural event was about community, legacy and the kindness and compassion of donors to Roberts Wesleyan University who believe in the holistic development of our students and the impact they have on the lives of people in our region and around the world.”
A celebration was held at the president’s home during homecoming weekend to recognize their faithful giving, the accomplishments achieved because of their contributions and, most importantly, their remarkable level of investment in Roberts and Northeastern. Every President's Circle member received the president’s seal pin commemorating their membership in this faithful group of donors and heard directly from President Porterfield regarding their significant contribution to the sustainability of the university.
“Through their generosity in the vision of the institution, members of the President’s Circle hold a distinct place for their financial support and commitment to Roberts,” said Alexander Jones, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “President’s Circle donors will receive regular and special communications directly from the president’s office, and the Advancement team will keep these special donors well informed about the ongoing impact of their gifts. We are extremely thankful for this legacy of giving that will make a difference today and in the future for students, faculty, staff and the community.”
To learn more about the Roberts Fund and giving opportunities at the university, click here.