The Nature of a
D
Challenge
uring your most recent job interview, whether it was last week or 20 years ago, you were probably asked to address a challenge that you have faced and the eventual outcome. I think that question is borne out of human nature because
we often view the word “challenge” as being negative. It is associated with words like obstacle, difficulty, objection or fight. If you have watched the news lately, negativity sells. I just wish that one time, that interviewer would ask about an opportunity that was presented to you and what you did capitalize on it. Avila has just been presented with that opportunity. We received word in January from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation that we have been approved for a $900,000 “challenge” grant. The nature of a challenge grant from the Mabee Foundation requires the successful applicant to raise about four times the size of the grant in private funds before the money will be released. When we applied, we were slightly over halfway to our goal of $3,653,000 and hopeful that we could close the remaining gap in less than the 12 months allowed. Needless to say, it was but a brief celebration for the advancement team because we know there is much still to be done. When, not if, we are successful, this will be the second largest check the school will have received in its 93-year history. It also will help fund four key projects (highlighted later in this issue) that will greatly improve our facilities and how we educate and serve our students. We have been successful with challenge grants from the Mabee Foundation in the past.
We have been presented with an opportunity at a time when many only see challenges – and with your assistance, we will capitalize on it!
In fact, the largest check Avila ever received was $1,000,000 from the Foundation in 2006. The key to such successes always has been the investments our alumni and friends have been willing to make in Avila and the students it serves. Your commitment to helping us close that gap will truly make a difference in our students’ experiences for generations to come. We have been presented with an opportunity at a time when many only see challenges – and with your assistance, we will capitalize on it! Carpe diem!
Greg Reichert Vice President for Advancement
For more information on the 2010 Mabee Foundation Challenge, please visit the Web site at www.avila.edu/mabeechallenge