The Art of Giving

BY TONY BURKE ‘87

Philanthropy - the Art of Giving - is truly an art. For most, it does not come naturally, the gift of designating earnings or good fortune for individuals or institutions who can use financial support. Much like the giving of one’s time and talents, of being a man and woman for and with others, the art of giving financially not only comes from a personal desire to do so, but it is often something that is learned. How do I give? Where do I give? How much? Young and new philanthropists many times struggle with these questions and more. However, Walsh Jesuit and the WJ Chairman of the Board of Directors, Tom Haag ’81, is here to help answer those questions.

On Senior Day, Mr. Haag spoke briefly to the Class of 2022 about staying connected to their alma mater as they move on from the halls of WJ. Coming home for a reunion, a sporting event, a play, Mass in the Chapel of the Nort American Martyrs, or the Warrior Gala. Their presence will be as valued and welcomed returning home to Walsh Jesuit as their four years as members of the WJ student body. Mr. Haag spoke about the tradition of alumni giving and how alums help keep tuition affordable and enhance the overall WJ experience for future Warriors.

Mr. Haag then gave a short lesson on philanthropy. “In four short years, you will be gainfully employed and prepared to further set the world on fire. You might even consider supporting a cause – a charity whose mission aligns with your ideals; you might give back to your college, your parish and hopefully, you’ll consider giving back to WJ, remembering the priceless memories and opportunities your high school experience provided you.”

He then alerted the Class of 2022 that each one had an envelope with five - $1 bills inside it, thanks to a generous donor. He said to think of it as “a future paycheck.” The money was to be used however they deemed appropriate. Do they want to give back to Walsh Jesuit, maybe to areas that were important to them while they were students at WJ, maybe to an area of need that provides financial support, campus support, or even pocket the money and buy a burger or coffee with it? The students then placed their dollar bills in buckets assigned to the area or areas where they wanted their newfound money to benefit WJ.

St. Ignatius has encouraged us “to give and not count the cost.” The Class of 2022, thanks to a simple lesson by Mr. Haag, learned at a young age how to do that. Our hope is this will set our amazing graduates on a path to live out St. Ignatius’ words. To recall their 4 years at Walsh Jesuit of making lifelong friends, of their exponential growth socially, spiritually, and academically, and instill the desire of ensuring the same experiences for future generations of Walsh Jesuit students through their own philanthropic efforts.

Profiles Of Gratitude

Every gift to Walsh Jesuit supports a transformational educational experience for every student and supports faculty and staff.

“I AM GRATEFUL…

for the kind students, faculty, and staff that help provide memorable experiences each day. The caring environment Walsh Jesuit provides inspires each student to strive for greatness. Whether it is in the classroom, at school spirit events, through retreats, or service, I am grateful that every student has an opportunity to express their true self. With the loving teachers and administrators at our side, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been educated through such compassion and for the opportunity to have made friendships that will last a lifetime. I am grateful to have been a part of the loving community at Walsh Jesuit.”

“I AM GRATEFUL…

for the service opportunities Walsh has afforded me. As such, I have become an active member of both my school and the greater Akron community. Most markedly, however, I have been able to unearth the stories of those around me throughout my high school experience. On Labre, I’ve heard the triumphs of previously incarcerated men and those who struggle with food insecurity. As I’ve served as a tutor, I’ve had the privilege to see young students foster their passions and interests. At Walsh, I am continuously inspired by the cohort of individuals who commit themselves to serving others. And for this, I am more than grateful.”

DENNIS BUTTS ‘23

“I AM GRATEFUL…

for the loving community that is Walsh Jesuit. From its students to its teachers, everyone cares for one another, and everyone strives for each member of the community to succeed. The support I have received has helped me get out of my comfort zone and get involved in my community in many ways. I am so grateful to have the experiences and exposure to the many resources Walsh Jesuit provides its students. I have been able to grow not only academically but socially and emotionally as well. WJ has cultivated skills in me that I could never have imagined and skills that I will continue to develop in my next chapter. I know that I will take all that I have learned and be forever grateful for my time at Walsh.”

“I AM GRATEFUL…

to Walsh Jesuit for giving me the opportunity to positively impact the lives of our students each day. The joy and enthusiasm they bring to my classroom continue to enrich my life. I am also honored and humbled to have worked alongside so many talented, committed, caring individuals for the last 23 years. WJ has taught me what it means to truly be an Ignatian educator, and I am proud to serve this community.

CHRISTY ZIEMIANSKI Foreign Language Teacher since 1999

“I AM GRATEFUL…

for the caring faculty at Walsh Jesuit who have impacted both my educational journey and my growth as a person. I am thankful for the wonderful friends I have made within the Walsh Jesuit community who I could not have met anywhere else, and I am extremely lucky to see these amazing people every day. I am grateful for the copious amount of extracurricular opportunities for athletics and leadership that have shaped and defined my high school experience and will benefit me throughout the rest of my life.”

LILY FRATANTONIO ‘23

“I AM GRATEFUL…

for the opportunities that Walsh Jesuit provides me daily. Over the last four years, I have had the opportunity to strengthen my faith and become more connected to God in my life through theology and service projects. As a Labre Project leader, I have enjoyed building relationships with those who live on the margins and learned to see God in all things. Walsh Jesuit has taught me what it means to be a woman for and with others, and I am blessed to be a part of this community.”

BRYNNA REYNOLDS ‘23