ADVANCING GW

As an entrepreneur I’m always fascinated by the concept of asset valuations. What really constitutes an asset? How do you calculate the value of an asset? How can you materially impact the value of the asset? Particularly when that asset is intangible – like our GW degrees – how can we impact value? As alumni, we can work to enhance the value of our degrees through contributions of our time and our funds.

The GWAA is working hard to impact the value of our degrees. This year, the association will:

Ensure the continued solvency of the association. As treasurer, this is my top priority. We’ve taken steps this year to ensure that future generations of alumni will be able to rely on the association as a community. Alumni continue to enjoy the benefits of the alumni credit card and insurance programs, the revenues from which support our programming and events. We’ve also begun working on a new student loan consolidation program – stay tuned for more details!

Achieve 100 percent board giving. Association President Kristen Betts has challenged each and every one of the board members to participate in GW’s annual fund. We’re in the midst of this campaign and all signs look good! The board is leading by example in our efforts to contribute to the University – which, through the U.S. News & World Report rankings, have a direct impact on the value of our degrees.

You can help too! Here are some ways that alumni can make a difference:

Volunteer your time. Time truly is our most valuable asset, and whenever alumni contribute their time, by attending an event, staffing an event, planning a program, or attending a meeting, it provides a tremendous boost to the entire alumni community. To find out more about how to volunteer your time to the GW Alumni Association and the University, please contact alumni@gwu.edu.

Make a gift to GW. I know that your GW degree was expensive, and costs continue to rise. But I also know how much my degree has returned to me – financially, socially, and emotionally. Additionally, I know that the contributions I make to the University continue to sustain its growth, thereby enhancing the value of my degree. If you would like to make a gift to the University, visit www.gwu.edu/give2gw or call 202-994-9144.

Remember, it’s not the size of the contribution or the amount of time that matters, it’s participation that makes a difference. As an association and as individuals we can work to advance the University and all alumni.