Your Impact: philanthropy gets personal
SYA and Beyond
Greek playwright Aeschylus coined the term “philanthropy,” meaning “love of humanity,” in the 5th century BCE. Today, philanthropy means generosity in all its forms and is often defined as giving gifts of time, talent and treasure to help make life better for other people. Together, we amplify our impact on causes that are meaningful and fuel our passion.
Charitable nonprofits provide a way for people to work together for the common good. According to the Council of Nonprofits, the U.S. has more than one million charitable nonprofits that educate, feed, heal, shelter, inspire, enlighten and nurture people of every age, gender, race and socioeconomic status. From coast to coast and beyond, nonprofits transform shared hopes and beliefs into action.
As one of the many nonprofits that rely on the time, talent and treasure of its volunteers and donors, faculty and staff, SYA established The Stephen M. Foster ES'65 Exemplary Service Award in 2018 to recognize and celebrate those members of our community who demonstrate extraordinary service to School Year Abroad.
Whether through career or volunteering, many have a personal interest in and commitment to their organization’s cause. Mimi Crume Sterling FR’94, CEO of The Family Place, a nonprofit in Dallas, said, “There is nothing better than being able to align your skills with a cause you are passionate about. I highly encourage anyone feeling a tug in that direction to explore it further, whether professionally or voluntarily. If you’re going the professional route, a mentor can make a tremendous difference in guiding you.”
Meet some SYA alumni and staff who, like Mimi, have found a sense of personal fulfillment through making a positive difference, both locally and globally.
Tom Hassan, President
A lifelong educator, Tom provides his expertise and thought leadership beyond his role at SYA.
Mimi Crume Sterling FR'94
As CEO of The Family Place, Mimi combines her foundation work with her corporate culture, belonging and communications work in a meaningful way.
Nick Richard ES'11
Nick was one of the first Philanthropy Fellows for the Silicon Valley Community Foundation.
Allison Temple Bacon ES'81
Allison saw a need in her Chicago community and co-founded Impact Grants Chicago, a women’s collective giving group.
Megan Zuckerman FR'12
A career in PR and event planning was launched through several volunteer roles, including SYA.
Matt Hoidal ES'89
From getting a law degree to becoming the Chief Change Maker, find out what Matt is doing ... not in his "spare" time, but all the time.
Erin Ericson, Director of Advancement
Hearing countless alumni stories is just one of the perks of working at SYA. Helping to ensure its legacy is another.
Carolynn Rockafellow FR'77 FRS'09P
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Carolynn was awarded the 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award for her work with the Ritsona Refugee Camp in Greece.