Why I Give

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Alumnae tell why they give to MHC:

Chau Ly 1997
I give to Mount Holyoke because I loved my college experience! MHC changed my life. I developed greater self-confidence and intellectual confidence during my four years there. The friendships that I developed at MHC are stronger than any other friendships I have.
Given that sexism is still very pervasive in our society, institutions like MHC offer women an environment where we can learn, grow and be at the center. MHC inspired me to want to change the world. Mary Lyon's legacy of "purposeful engagement in the world" is somthing I value very deeply.

Judy Harris Rawson 1970
A number of us got together last fall to celebrate our 60th birthdays. After two days of rain and a LOT of great conversation, we got to talking about Mount Holyoke and what we owed her. The shared theme was that Mount Holyoke had taught us to believe in ourselves and in our capacity to meet any challenge tossed our way by life. As I listened to the very different life stories, with stunning tales of resilience, initiative, and confidence in our ability to figure things out, I felt very proud of Mount Holyoke. She gave us solid values and lofty aspirations. We are uncommon women with a lot of common sense!

Mindy McWilliams Lewis 1975
I take immense pride and commitment in giving to our alma mater annually. My four years at MHC were truly developmental as well as transformative in so many ways. Mt. Holyoke gave me the academic rigor that prepared me to think critically and thoughtfully, and inspiration to be accomplished as so many talented women and illustrious alumnae. Mt. Holyoke also provided me with a supportive space that helped sharpen my appreciation for community and identity as a woman and person of color, along with the rock-solid confidence to pursue my personal aspirations both professionally and socially. I want other women like me and my daughter (Class of 2005) to be given such a Mt. Holyoke experience.

Nina Davis 1976
I always appreciated the quality of the education that Mount Holyoke provided and enjoyed my college years immensely. Then, I arrived at medical school: the culture shock was stunning. The quality of the teaching, with rare exceptions, never came close to that offered at MHC. Once I was in practice and earning a good income, I wanted to make sure that others were exposed to the superb educators and state-of-the-art facilities that I had enjoyed during my tenure at MHC.

Patty Perreault Bennett 1972
I give to Mount Holyoke because Mount Holyoke gave to me. I grew up in South Hadley, and I was lucky enough to qualify for the full-tuition scholarship in 1968. As long as I am able, I want to support the great school that supported me many years ago. I have even included Mount Holyoke in my will!

Rebecca Gold 1995
I give because I feel it is an important act of feminism. As a working woman who feels strongly about women's education, I take great pride in putting my money where my mouth is. I can think of no better way to do this than by giving to MHC.

Judy Shepherd DeBrandt 1966
I give to Mt. Holyoke because I have been privileged to participate in a lifelong community of women who are wise, witty, true, caring, and fun. The vibrant and stimulating spirit of Mt. Holyoke women is an inspiration. I contribute to Mt. Holyoke because it reaches out to educate and support the women who are a part of this rich continuum. Mt. Holyoke is a constant and essential dimension of my life.

Krysia Lycette Villon 1996
I give to Mount Holyoke in many ways--financially, through volunteering, and by keeping connected with students and young alumnae. I also know how important the Annual Fund is to the health of the College and to keeping financial aid an option for many students. Had I not received financial aid, I would never have been able to stay in this beautiful place. Here I met one of my best friends, my mentors, my little sisters, my love of dance and music, and my dreaming spirit. I can't even imagine not giving back.

Leslie Fu Pang 1997
Without MHC I wouldn't be the person I am today. I'm forever grateful for the way it inspired me to move out of my comfort zone, empowered me to face challenges head on, to be proud of who I am and what I know. Being on the tennis team for all four years of my college career made me develop as a team player, putting the focus off of oneself for the greater good of the team. I believe this has been a definite asset in my professional career. All in all, my experiences at MHC have shaped who I am today and I know only to repay them through my donations.

Cristina Rodriguez 2004
As an international student I never thought it could have been feasible for me to study in the USA but MHC made it possible through its substantial support: a generous scholarship and an affordable loan. Since graduation I promised to myself to collaborate with the projects the school needs to accomplish, especially the annual scholarship fund in order to support the dreams of women around the world who have the potential to make a difference. I honestly hope one day to have enough resources to give back what the school has done for me.