Liz Sullinger (left) with her best friend, Michele Torr McDonell, at SCU
In philanthropy, it's okay to start small. Generations of Americans fondly remember the iconic cardboard UNICEF boxes they carried alongside sacks of Halloween candy, or the neighbor-to-neighbor network to help their local little league, yearbook drive, or scout troop. For Liz Sullinger '80, her entry into charitable giving came standing alongside her mother, Adele, as she went door-to-door collecting funds for the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and other good causes.
"Whether it was for the church, or the school—anyone who asked, my mother always gave, because to whom much is given, much is expected," Liz says.
For the retired Johnson and Johnson software engineer, the tradition continues, albeit in slightly different form. A lifelong supporter of schools and education, Liz's personal philanthropy spans from San Jose to Tanzania.
"However you define your community—it might be your neighborhood, your town, or the entire world—your influence is greater than you think," she says.
Liz (left) and Michele today
Closer to home, Liz feels strongly about supporting Santa Clara University. Why? Because it's a matter of trust. "The University has proven themselves for over a century," she explains. SCU's Jesuit tradition also resonates deeply because, beyond educating its students, it also tends to the "mind, body, and soul." She appreciates that the University keeps its donors informed as to how it uses the resources they provide. "They always say 'thank you' and then they thank you again—donors appreciate it when organizations take time to express that."
Liz recognizes that, in order for SCU to thrive, its leadership must prepare not only for today's needs but also anticipate changes to come. She wants her recent bequest intention—announced during her reunion giving campaign—to help provide the financial flexibility the University needs to respond to unforeseen challenges and opportunities.
"My Uncle Frank attended Santa Clara in the '30s, which was a very different place than when his children were there in the '60s," she says, "and it evolved again in the late '70s when I was a student there. It's shown that it can keep growing and evolving for each generation over time."
By including a bequest to SCU in your will or living trust, you are ensuring that we can continue providing educational opportunities for the next generation. To learn more contact the Office of Planned Giving at 408-554-2108 or giftplanning@scu.edu.