“The Power and Support of Story” by Brett Moser, Vice President of Development & Alumni Relations

The Power and Support of Story

There is no denying the power of a great story. I find myself fully engaged in listening, identifying with, and even retelling the story later (hopefully with correct details). Our culture has even created a stage for us to tell our own stories, while watching others’—just post to your “story” on social media, and instantly you have an audience. Would you consider: What makes a story so powerful and engaging? Sometimes, it’s exaggeration and indulgence, often heard in a good fishing story. But I believe real engagement comes from the realization of where a story started compared to its current contrastive reality. The starting point for stories can be simple, tragic, uninspiring, the status quo, or filled with dreams and hopes. The best stories seem to be those that have crescendotype moments concluding with a goal being completed, good overcoming evil, triumphs after defeat, or healing after trauma. some projects that align with President Peterson’s strategic plan and our vision to be the best career oriented liberal arts institution in the Midwest. As we look towards 2023, please be watching for further updates and opportunities to participate with cash gifts, starting scholarships, or to consider a bequest to the University. As I was traveling this year, an alum shared, “For so long I looked forward, but now it is time to look back.” I ask you to also look back. How were you supported in college? Can your story include supporting future Jimmies, so they too can have a special story of their own to live out?

Bringing Jimmie Stories Together— Homecoming 2023

At the University of Jamestown, I have learned there is no exaggeration to what is taking place in the stories of our students. Goals are being accomplished, dreams are being realized, wins replace losses, and healing happens at the right time. Equally—as President Peterson and I have started to travel the country again visiting Alumni and Friends—your stories are inspiring, special, and provide us with energy that higher education is worth it! My point that I want to communicate to you is: These success stories do not happen without you! Your support is the lifeblood that runs through the veins of UJ, making us a place that continues to produce the best stories. An alum recently told me about relatives that went to another smaller institution, who commented on the fact that “we don’t have what you Jimmies have!” They were referring to the relational connectivity combined with the support that our Alumni base receives from one another — this isn’t normal? As an institution, this difference is the gift that keeps on giving. You’ve supported students of the past, present, and into the future. We can’t thank you enough! The 2022 fiscal year saw over $6.3 million given to the University. This included $1.07 million given to the Annual Progress Fund—Unrestricted, exceeding our goal of $1.05 million. Further, we completed a successful endowment campaign with over $1 million given. This resulted in a matching gift of $1 million received in early fiscal year 2023 from Jack Schuler. Because of this campaign, 28 new scholarships were created, with over 260 donors. What a story we have as Jimmies. We’ll be celebrating the historical reality of 140 years since UJ was founded in 1883, together at Homecoming! Mark your calendars for October 6–8, 2023. Our hope is to have a memorable time celebrating an all-school and all-class reunion, our special anniversary classes, team reunions, choir, and band reunion. More details will be forthcoming.

Our story is one worth celebrating. Decades have come and gone. Administration, staff, and faculty have come and gone—but Jimmie Pride still runs thick and deep, woven into a storyline that has shaped and formed thousands. There is power in our story, your story, and the stories of today and tomorrow. May you be blessed as you continue to support and cheer on the advancement of our story as Jimmies together.

With much gratitude for you,

Brett Moser `x03/`21

VP of Development and Alumni Relations L to R: Mark Wolf `80, Bob Piatz`80, Steve Braunberger `80, Brett Moser `x03/`21, and Perry Piatz

The Story Continued—Next Campaign

As we look to the future, the Development and Alumni Relations office is preparing for our next campaign in 2023. We will focus heavily on building the University’s endowment for future health and long-term success. We will also look to tackle