Big Checks, Bigger Dreams: Bengals Raise Funds and Grant Wishes Through Community Outreach

Throughout the year, College of Business students, faculty and staff go above and beyond to make an impact in the community. Sometimes this impact takes the form of cheering at the finish line of Walk to End Alzheimer’s, other times it’s a monetary donation so a child can attend a highly ranked preschool program. It can even be dancing in a Santa suit to help make a sick child’s Make-a-Wish dream come true. Regardless of where, when, or how, members of the College of Business strive to share knowledge, spread Bengal pride, and truly make a difference everywhere they go.

“All of us in the ISU College of Business are blessed to live in this amazing community,” said College of Business Dean and Michael C. Ruettgers Professor of Marketing Dr. Shane Hunt. “We are committed through our partnerships, volunteer support and putting on events like Festival of Trees to helping make the future be the brightest it can be.”

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1. The Make-a-Wish recipient for this year’s Festival of Trees was nine-year-old Crew, who is battling leukemia. Using funds raised during the Festival, Crew’s wish to run out of the tunnel with the Dallas Cowboys will be granted.

2. The College of Business launched the Festival of Trees this year with a social media dance collaboration. Benny the Bengal and Santa (who may be the College of Business Dean in his spare time) showed off their dance moves among the 70+ beautiful trees in the Stephens Performing Arts Center, encouraging community members to stop by.

3. In recognition of funds given to the Alzheimer’s Association during the 2023 Festival of Trees, the College of Business was the Local Presenting Sponsor for the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The College of Business was proud to walk with and cheer on community members walking to raise awareness and offer support to those affected by the disease.

4. The College of Business was proud to donate $1,100 to the 2024 United Way Campaign. This money paid for a child in American Falls to be part of an amazing preschool program who would not have been able to attend otherwise.

5. The College of Business was proud to support Women United and during their annual Murder Mystery Dinner, both as audience members and actors.

6. College of Business students and Associate Professor of Management Dr. Jeff Street helped President and Tracy Wagner show their house during the annual Historic Home Tour.