Spotlight
Winter 2008 Back to Spotlight home page
A black and gold opportunity
A conversation with President Michael Lane
Q: What is the Black and Gold Society?
A: The society is a membership organization designed to engage those who care deeply about ESU. It offers a unique level of interaction with the ESU leadership as we shape major initiatives on campus and support students. Membership comes through a $1,500 annual gift designated specifically to the society.
Q: Why has it been established?
A: We launched the society this fall as a more formal way to recognize the time, talents and treasures that our friends commit to ESU. A university’s leadership generally develops an informal network of close friends from the area, region and nation who play an integral role in the university’s success, and ESU is no different. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet many of ESU’s most committed friends, and I know we’re excited about this new opportunity.
Q: You’ve seen this model at other institutions?
A: That’s right. Our foundation staff carefully studied this idea by looking at other institutions, and developed a program that matches ESU’s needs. I’ve seen it work elsewhere, and I’ve talked with colleagues across the country, where similar programs continue to grow and provide critical resources for university decision-makers.
Q: Half of the funds will benefit the Black and Gold Scholars program. What does the program offer, and why is it important?
A: The Black and Gold Scholars program is designed to have a scholarship focus that recognizes exemplary student scholars. It’s a concept similar to presidential scholars programs at other institutions. This new program provides a unique opportunity for Black and Gold members to discuss scholarship criteria with the president. It’s exciting that members can help shape this program!
Q: Half of the giving will support special projects at ESU. What are some initial ideas?
A: Before getting too specific, it’s important to realize that so much of a university’s revenue is restricted to specific purposes. The society gives us financial flexibility to respond quickly to emerging opportunities and address critical needs. This flexibility is a benchmark of a great university. I’d compare it to a corporation setting aside money for research and development. Now, as for specific projects, I will be describing the university’s needs to society members, and I expect ideas to emerge from the group that will create funding focuses that will differ year by year.
Q: What are the society’s benefits for members?
A: Being in on the ground level of important programs, innovative research and groundbreaking initiatives is definitely a benefit. Members will also have a powerful impact on the lives of students, through special projects and through the scholars program. Beyond that, members will receive exclusive updates on ESU accomplishments and initiatives, invitations and special seating for selected events, recognition in the Honor Roll of Donors, and an invitation to a Black and Gold Society annual event.
Q: What are your hopes for this society?
A: We expect the group to become a powerful network of advocates for ESU. We know there’s a lot of passion out there, and the society can be a conduit for this passion. In five or ten years, we hope for 150 members or more. Our timing is good, as ESU approaches its sesquicentennial in 2013, to begin charting the future of ESU, and the society’s members will be providing valuable advice and counsel.
To learn more about the Black and Gold Society, contact the ESU Foundation at (620) 341-6488 or sacfound@emporia.edu, or visit the society online by clicking here.
Last Updated April 17, 2008