From its beginning, Gonzaga has been a place motivated by an unwavering sense of purpose: to educate individuals of faith, courage and compassion, who lead in thought, word and deed. What this institution has achieved, and will continue to accomplish, is a reality because of the incredible dedication and sacrifice of so many people — including many of you, our faithful friends.
In October, we kicked off our second all-Zag, all-class reunion — Zagapalooza — with the public launch of “Gonzaga Will: The Campaign for Our Future.” Our talented performing arts students and faculty wowed the gathering of alumni, benefactors and community members with an impressive display at The Davenport Grand Hotel, where we set a course for tomorrow’s exemplary Jesuit education. Throughout the weekend, Zags continued to gather for memory-making as they helped to dedicate the John J. Hemmingson Center, participated in an Ignatian retreat, shared stories inside The Bulldog (now at The Hemmingson), made s’mores at the fire pit and continued to catch up with one another at locations across Spokane. The sense of community was palpable, and moving to witness. I want to thank all who were a part of these events, and to those who couldn’t make it, our doors are always open.
Gonzaga Will is a huge undertaking, a commitment to raise $250 million. The largest fundraising endeavor in our history, this campaign will build up our endowment to support scholarships for students who otherwise cannot attend. We will continue to expand international engagement opportunities, so we can broaden our perspectives. We will dedicate ourselves to academic innovation to solve the world’s toughest challenges. We will bolster our eff orts to build sustainable communities, so we can off er service in God’s name. We will improve our learning environments, so they can stay relevant for today’s students.
When we say Gonzaga Will, we make a promise. We will continue to care for our students. We will extend our hearts and hands to the world community. We will protect the future of this school. We will serve God in all things.
Gonzaga Will is also a challenge and a question. Will you believe in our vision? Will you join us for the work ahead? Will you help create an even stronger Gonzaga?
One of those who answered these questions with a resounding affirmative is Miss Myrtle Woldson, a guardian angel who loved the arts, her Catholic heritage and Gonzaga University. When Miss Woldson passed away in 2014, Gonzaga received the single largest legacy gift in its history: an estate valued at $55 million. Miss Woldson believed that this university’s primary work was to open doors: doors to the future, to transformation, and to bright women and men who could make positive and lasting change in the world. In addition to funding a new
performing arts center, her gift will create the largest single endowment fund for scholarships in our history.
Thanks to Miss Woldson and generous gifts from many other supporters, we have already raised $183 million toward our $250 million goal. That leaves $67 million yet to secure.
Whether you’re an alum, fan, friend, parent, neighbor or student, we’re asking you to show us that you believe in this University. The time has come for bold action. To move forward with purpose and passion. Because Gonzaga’s future starts right now.
Please join us.
With gratitude,
Thayne M. McCulloh, D.Phil.
President
gonzagawill.com