WLC Member-Driven Initiatives 2023-24
This year, members of the WLC developed several important new initiatives. Each of these initiatives is designed to create more meaningful engagement within the WLC and inspire greater philanthropy across the Colgate community. Many of these efforts are still in development and will be launched in the year ahead. Exciting initiatives include a virtual WLC hub, enhanced member directory, and engagement with students and recent alumni.
- Welcoming WLC members to campus during large-scale weekends. We created two distinct events for WLC members and friends of the WLC during Arts, Creativity, and Innovation weekend (a brunch and a more casual dinner), and we created a member directory for the weekend to ensure that all felt welcomed and better connected. This new format will provide a new framework for welcoming WLC members back for large-scale on-campus weekends moving forward.
- Onboarding new members.We are developing a Link program, designed to connect existing members with new members in order to provide a more seamless and welcoming experience.
- Virtual WLC hub. We are developing a virtual WLC website that will serve as a one-stop shop for all of your WLC needs, including event updates, directory information, hotel housing request forms, Colgate updates, and more.
- Enhanced member directory. We have mocked up a new member directory that will be more visually appealing and include more information about members (such as professional and personal interests) and will be more user friendly.
- Planning more events for WLC members. We began to develop a schedule of events for the year ahead that will include a mix of regional, on-campus, and virtual events. We will create opportunities in the year ahead for members to curate their own events!
- Engaging students and recent alumni. Recognizing the importance of building a pipeline of future support, members of the WLC met with students this past year to begin to gather their feedback and insights on philanthropy. In the coming year, we will provide opportunities for WLC members to connect with Colgate students and recent alumni both on campus and regionally to continue these important conversations.
- Inspiring more 50th Reunion alumnae to join. This past year, Colgate celebrated the 50th Reunion of the first fully co-educational class (1974). As more women approach their 50th reunions, we have an opportunity to engage their philanthropic interests in more significant and strategic ways.
Thank you to the following WLC members for their leadership and participation on these important initiatives.
- Madeline Bayliss ’76
- Brooke Beck ’94
- Carrie Clifford ’93
- Julia Gilbert ’94
- Melissa Graham ’91
- Mari Jones ’09
- Sue Kilbride ’94
- Liz Lasdon ’76
- Lee Anne Luing ’88
- Betsy McDermott ’98
- Kelly Mulderry ’93
- Patricia Nozell ’81
- Jane Porter ’74
- Vanessa Puzio-Billotti ’98
- Katie Roberts ’01
- Joanne Spigner ’76
- Stephanie Young ’94