The Importance of Philanthropy

BY LILY DAVIDSON ’24

receiving feedback on that impact is crucial to us,” says McIntyre. “We’re delighted to be able to help translate the work being done at Bryant University into real results.

I came away very impressed after my most recent in-person visit.”

In support of Bryant, the Fred M. Roddy Foundation established an endowed scholarship to benefit students with financial need from the City of Attleboro; provided a grant to support the construction and equipment needs of the Physician Assistant Training Center; and, most recently, funded the laboratory equipment needs for the Center for Health and Behavioral Science.

Lily Davidson 24 delivered remarks at the 2022 Champions for Philanthropy event on behalf of all students who benefit from scholarships provided by philanthropic giving.

My name is Lily Davidson, and I am a junior majoring in Supply Chain Management. I am involved with the Student Alumni Association as the vice president of philanthropy along with the Supply Chain Leadership Association where I am on the E-board for Marketing. In my role as the vice president of Philanthropy, I am focused on giving back to the Student Alumni Association, Bryant, and Rhode Island. We do this by participating in Bryant Giving Day, and donating to the Amos House, which focuses on helping the homeless by giving meals, job training and employment to the homeless in Rhode Island. And, to celebrate Tupper’s birthday, we are committed to working with the Hotel for Homeless Dogs in Cumberland, RI.

Philanthropy means that we promote the giving of our time, resources, and donations. We are all giving in ways that are important to us, and I join you in making philanthropy a priority.

I was fortunate enough to receive the William E. Truehart scholarship, which is the reason I can attend Bryant. The Trueheart Scholarship is granted to high-achieving students of diversity. Honoring the sixth president of Bryant, Dr. Trueheart was the first African American president of Bryant. Having received this scholarship and knowing that Bryant believed in my involvement and leadership, I am motivated to participate in clubs and challenge myself to achieve more responsibilities and leadership roles.

I also work at the Bryant Telefund, where we call and ask alumni and parents to support the Bryant Fund. So, you might have received a call from me. This work has really changed my perspective on what it means to give and what it means to be able to give. Not

Chuck has always focused on leading by example and helping and coaching where he can. “I want to see all people succeed, and I am fortunate enough to be able to help at this point in my life. And, certainly, there’s an element of my desire to ‘pay it forward,’ as I have been the beneficiary of financial support, mentoring, and wisdom and understand how valuable all of that can be throughout life,” he continues.

Now Chief Executive Officer/Owner of TE Ventures (Tommy’s Express Car Wash franchisee), Chuck currently owns and operates 11 franchises and has more than 30 other sites in development or construction slated for opening in the next 18 months. “I want our employees driving to work with a smile on their faces. That’s what keeps me going.”

Always an annual donor, Chuck has established a multi-year annual giving pledge to the College of Business Dean’s Fund to advance innovation in the College of Business.

He’s also created the Charles L. Caranci, Jr. ’88 Entrepreneurship Endowed Fund to help recent graduates launch their new ventures. He finds the donation special and uniquely meaningful, and because it’s endowed, the Fund will help Bryant advance entrepreneurship in perpetuity. In addition to this endowment, Chuck has named Bryant’s College of Business in his will. “It’s comforting to know I will continue to make a difference at the University after I’m gone.” everyone is fortunate enough to be able to give money, but we all can give our time. Giving does not just involve money (although money is always nice), being present and active within the community means that you are donating and giving.

We have been fortunate to be here on Bryant’s beautiful campus, to have been taught by amazing professors, to be welcomed and supported by exceptional staff members, and to have received an irreplaceable education. With the support of donors like you, you have made the difference in our experience at Bryant. You have changed our lives and have given opportunities to so many students like me. This campus allows friendship and inclusion for everyone. Students involved in Greek life, athletes, and members of clubs and organizations, feel welcomed wherever they go and know they belong. Through your philanthropy, Bryant has been able to build new facilities, equip high tech classrooms, and offer an education that excels.

After college, you never realize just how much you miss it. I utilize this mindset as I take on new experiences and opportunities. Our future as students and soon to be graduates of Bryant University is bright because of your philanthropic efforts. On behalf of myself and all the students at Bryant University, we appreciate your confidence and trust in us that we will take the lessons and experience we have had at Bryant, into our futures. You have shown us to value of the connections we’ve made at Bryant and commit ourselves to giving back to our school in the ways we are able. Thank you!