As an iSchool student, alumnus Don Hamerly completed the MLIS in 1998 and received his PhD 2009. Now an assistant professor and Director of the School Library Media Program at Dominican University in Chicago, Don has become a strong supporter of the iSchool since his graduation. His latest contribution to the School comes in the form of a sustaining gift, donated on a monthly basis, which he created in 2012 and continues to support.
"Knowing that I could earmark my contribution to specific areas in the iSchool was what really got my attention. Hearing that my contribution could go to the Purple Shirt and IT Lab Fund prompted my initial contribution. The sustained contribution goes to the Annual Giving Program," Don explained.
My donations are a way of acknowledging the value of the relationships I formed there and the return on my investment of time at UT, and on the investment UT made in me.
In reflecting on his time as an iSchool student and its influence on his decision to become a donor, Don remarked, "I was very fortunate to attend the iSchool and earn my Ph.D. on a fellowship from the IMLS. I did invest some of my own money in my education, and I worked as a Purple Shirt and graduate assistant. What an amazing opportunity it was to have that chance! I now have two advanced degrees from the school and university, and they have served me well professionally and personally. I am so enriched by my experiences and associations there. My donations are a way of acknowledging the value of the relationships I formed there and the return on my investment of time at UT, and on the investment UT made in me."
If he could talk to fellow alumni about the rewards of sustained giving and other iSchool donor endeavors, Don believes that the sustained monthly donation is his way of contributing regularly and building upon his initial gift, knowing that every amount adds up to greater support for the school. On the iSchool and higher education generally, Don asserts, "We who know its value should support it ourselves in ways that we can point to."