On a beautiful Spring day full of hope, more than 140 alumni, friends, faculty and staff gathered at the School of Human Ecology to celebrate the power of philanthropy to transform the lives of students, today and tomorrow.
The inaugural cohort of Ember Hall honorees reflects the breadth and diversity of visionary thinkers who are shaping the future of the school for generations to come.
“Ember Hall honorees, by virtue of your generosity, you have made a covenant with Human Ecology’s students, faculty, and alumni for a future based on the shared belief that anything is possible!” Dean Soyeon ShimEach donor name adorns a diamond-shaped plaque that when removed from the wall, reveals soft undulating light reminiscent of the Northern Lights, ever changing and awe-inspiring.“Your generosity provides a wonderful example of what can be achieved when there is a shared belief in the future.”Senior Director of Development Claire Mezick is joined by Mike Knetter, Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association CEO.The inaugural cohort of Ember Hall honorees reflects a diverse community of 60 generous individuals, families, foundations, and corporations.Each pinewood facet on the wall is individually crafted in Milwaukee and installed by hand.The idea “what might be possible for the future if we come together?” is at the heart of Ember Hall. Jerry O’Brien, Executive director of the Kohl’s Center for Retailing (R) joins visionary philanthropist Jeff Levy (L) at the dedication celebration.Ember Hall honoree Margaret Shields shares a moment with Associate Professor Brian McInnes who holds the Leola R. Culver Professorship in Nonprofits and Philanthropy. Picture center, Associate Professor Larissa Duncan, Elizabeth C. Davies Chair in Child and Family Well-Being.
