ON GIVING SPOTLIGHT

By Kerrie Kirkpatrick ALUMNI & DONOR EXPERIENCE OFFICER

Wellington lifer Elizabeth Kazemi ’17 recently made her first gift to the Wellington Annual Fund. Kazemi felt she was at a place where she could pay it forward. “In different stages and seasons of life, we may give in different ways – from donating funds to providing expertise – but no matter how or how much you give, know that the impact it can have on others is invaluable.”

Ready to engage in philanthropy financially, she chose Wellington. It’s important for Kazemi to help Wellington provide an environment filled with opportunities, experiences, and connections that helps all students flourish.

Kazemi is currently pursuing a graduate degree in human resource management at The Ohio State University’s Max M. Fisher College of Business. She serves on the Wellington Alumni Association Board and Fisher’s Master of Human Resource Management Advisory Board.

“Wellington was a big chapter of my journey that provided me with experiences and people that I’ll always be thankful for,” said Kazemi. “Giving back to those who have given to you is something that I strongly believe in.”

As a business owner, Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham P ’27 understands that if you want to see something grow, it deserves attention and support. That’s why the Grahams believe in not just sending their son to Wellington but committing to Wellington’s community. “The Annual Fund is an important touchstone for our school community to spark the spirit of philanthropy that each of us has,” said Hicks-Graham.

Since her son started at Wellington nine years ago, the Grahams have given most years to the Wellington Annual Fund at the Leadership Society level ($2,500 or more). In addition, Hicks-Graham is a member of the board of trustees.

Hicks-Graham continues to give because of the impact philanthropy makes on the lives of others. “It’s amazing to watch a small amount grow large and make a difference in the lives of others, particularly within a community with a common purpose and ideas. It is a foundational principle that simply feels right to my husband, Chris, and me.”

Bob Wheeler P ’20 ’22 ’25 has donated to Wellington for the past nine years, giving to the Annual Fund, the Believing Campaign, and a passion project, the Teen Defensive Driving Course. “It struck me that every young driver would benefit from learning things like skid control and crash avoidance and I decided to take an active role in making this training available to students,” said Wheeler. “It’s been very gratifying.”

As Wheeler’s children move from students to alumni, he passionately believes in staying connected and Wellington’s educational philosophy and approach. Wheeler most recently gave to the Believing Campaign, donating The Wheeler Family Classroom, a warm and inviting kindergarten classroom that includes a separate bathroom, direct access to the early childhood and lower school playscape, and a garage door that connects to the learning commons. “I have seen my children flourish in the Wellington environment. Giving to the Annual Fund and Believing Campaign helps me feel like I’m helping other current and future students have access to the same opportunities in a lasting way.”