Converse Revitalizes Giving Societies to Inspire Impact

Written by Lindsay Bartholomew

Since its founding, the Converse experience has been enriched by the gifts of generous alumni, parents, faculty and staff, friends, and community partners who believe in the promise of a Converse education. With new names for our Giving Societies, we celebrate our most dedicated and generous donors, while continuing to honor our beloved traditions. 

“We’ve refreshed our giving societies to create a deeper connection and sense of belonging to the Converse community.”

Joe Satava – Director of Donor Relations

“We’ve refreshed our giving societies to create a deeper connection and sense of belonging to the Converse community,” says Director of Donor Relations Joseph Satava. “The new names foster community, build relationships, and celebrate how we are bringing our mission to life. We are excited to continue creating meaningful experiences for our donors and showcasing the impact of our programs.”

• The Dexter Edgar Converse Society, named for the visionary founder of our beloved institution, honors Converse’s history and the Founder’s ideals by recognizing donors whose cumulative giving has reached our highest threshold. Formerly known as the Lifetime Giving Society, this is Converse’s most prestigious recognition for the generosity of donors who have a vital role in providing for our future. 
• The Mary Wilson Gee Society, named for a member of Converse’s first graduating class and a prominent faculty member, includes some of Converse’s closest and most generous friends. This society honors those who wish to leave a lasting legacy on our beloved institution by including Converse in their will or by making a planned gift. 
• The 1889 Society, formerly the Leadership Society, recognizes those donors who make a meaningful investment in Converse during the fiscal year. With their generosity, these donors empower Converse students to experience and foster a culture that ignites creativity, innovation, and transformation. 

Converse’s giving societies embody a community of steadfast supporters who make a lasting impact on the future of our campus. As members of these societies, donors gain unique opportunities to connect and engage with the Converse community in meaningful ways. More importantly, they know their support propels Converse forward, empowering the next generation of transformative leaders to see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly. 

“Our giving societies recognize the importance of annual gifts as well as the cumulative power of giving.”

Emily Jones Rushing ’73

“It’s exciting to see the many ways that donors can connect to Converse,” said Emily Jones Rushing ’73. “Our giving societies recognize the importance of annual gifts as well as the cumulative power of giving and the foresight of those who leave a legacy for the future. As an alumna and longtime donor myself, I cherish these connections.”