1846 Giving Circle Awards $350,000 in Grants

A diverse group of alumni, parents of Taylor students, past parents, grandparents, and friends of the University recently gathered to award $350,000 in grants to projects that will significantly impact the campus community and the mission of the University for years to come.

The 1846 Giving Circle is a newly created experience designed to create innovative ways to inspire and equip women for greater involvement in Kingdom efforts at Taylor University. Their gifts are combined to create a large fund to be given away as voted on by the attendees.

Last spring, faculty and staff were invited to submit a proposal for a project that would propel and advance Taylor’s strategic plan goals. Out of the 19 projects initially submitted, five received financial backing from the 1846 Giving Circle.

Revitalizing Knowledge Hubs: A Modernization Initiative for Zondervan Library received $125,000 to create relevant, restorative spaces within the Library to encourage academic success of all Taylor students. The grant will fund new furniture for the main floor, furniture and technology for a new Scholars Lab, classroom seating, and other tools to support students’ unique study needs.

The other projects that received funding include:

• Equipping our Faculty—iChair 2.0 (course scheduling system) received $75,000
• Launching a Master’s Degree in Special Education received $50,000
• Good Work (professional development as part of student employment) was awarded $50,000
• Taylor Recording Studio was awarded $50,000

“The 1846 Giving Circle is a unique opportunity for women to unite and use their collective philanthropy and voice to make a significant impact at Taylor University for the glory of God,” said Mike Falder, Vice President of Advancement. “Each proposal was well-prepared and compelling, and the Advancement Office is continuing to work to find further funding for these projects and others that were submitted.”

The 1846 Giving Circle was the vision of Kathy Stevens, a member of the Taylor Board of Trustees, parent, and alumna. Along with Rebecca Lindsay, Ambassador for the University, she helped lead this new initiative for giving and engagement.