Article by Brett Moser, Vice President of Development & Alumni Relations

Reflection, Thanksgiving and Catching the Vision!

Brett Moser x’03/’21

Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations

In the spring of 1999, two weeks after finishing my high school basketball career, Coach Brad Huse from Jamestown College sat in our living room in Churchs Ferry, ND. He proceeded to offer me the opportunity to be a Jimmie with a scholarship in athletics and academics. What I didn’t know at the time, that I know now is that this money came from somewhere. It did not grow on trees. That money did not come from the state of North Dakota. Ultimately, that money came from the faithful supporters and donors—the alumni and friends of the University of Jamestown. I am forever grateful, because it ultimately changed my life. I met my spouse, made lifelong friends, and received a great education— even making it through Dr. Steffan’s General Chemistry class and surviving Dr. Amaro’s Organic Chemistry. Now, my kids are swept up in the same excitement of what is happening here as they wear the orange and black, cheering at games and going to activities; while I support and give to that same scholarship opportunity that was offered to me in my living room 22 years ago. How special a cycle this is! I encourage you to take time to reflect on your own story and journey. In June, we completed a banner year for the fundraising efforts and support of the University. More than $9.66 million was given to UJ in the 2021 fiscal year. This amount represents the second most dollars given in school history. We exceeded our Annual Progress Fund goal of $1 million, raising $1.093 million. Further, we have a fully funded Charlotte and Gordon Hansen Stadium of $11.7 million, including giving and pledges. Additionally, the University’s endowment has grown through giving and a healthy market to $45.3 million, up from $38 million one year ago. As I have thought about how to respond to this phenomenal work, I remember a mentor of mine once stating: “It’s one thing to be grateful, but it is another thing altogether to give thanks. Gratitude is what you feel, but thanksgiving is what you do.” We feel a sense of gratitude to you as our Alumni and Friends. And what we do to show that gratitude—whenever possible—is to be with you, to shake your hands, give you hugs, and say these

“It’s one thing to be grateful, but it is another thing altogether to give thanks. Gratitude is what you feel, but thanksgiving is what you do.”

words in your presence: THANK YOU! You are the reason that our students are receiving the great education and experiences today, just as you did recently, or many years ago! Conclusively, would you continue to support the vision of this institution to become the best career-oriented liberal arts university in the Midwest? Let me assure you, this is an inspiring vision. There is nothing worse than being asked to support a terribly uninspiring organization that just pays the bills, keeps the lights on, plateaus, and believes the status quo is success. That is not our goal. We don’t desire to call you to support that. However, when we catch the vision of what is happening here, it is contagious. Bills are not only being paid, but people’s lives—students, staff, and faculty are also being changed. I am hopeful and prayerful that a snowball effect happens here at UJ, and we flourish in a unique way that parallels our Christian faith. Presbyterian minister Scott Sauls states: “Christianity always flourishes most as a life-giving minority, not as a powerful majority. It is through subversive, countercultural acts of love, justice, and service for the common good that Christianity has always gained the most ground.” In a related way, the University of Jamestown—as we further our mission—arguably is a life-giving minority amidst other socalled majority of “powerful” institutions around us in higher education. We will demonstrate a countercultural reality to love others, seek justice, serve, and give as we’ve been given much. The missions of other institutions are not built upon our three pillars: professional preparation, co-curricular experiences, all in a Christian environment. It is with this commitment—anchored to our mission—that we will gain the most ground. That we will live and work, unapologetically tethered to our values as an institution. It is inspiring work, a vision worth catching. We are overflowing with thankfulness for you … and I look forward to shaking your hands, and spending time with you in the future!