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In 2008 – 2009, Boston College undergraduate alumni were challenged by anonymous benefactors interested in significantly increasing the number of alumni who give annually to BC. The terms of the challenge, which took place in two phases, and ultimate incentives were clear: 25,000 total undergraduate alumni donors by May 31 would ensure a total of $1 million in financial aid support from the benefactors. In a tribute to one of BC’s most respected and well-known Jesuits—William B. Neenan, S.J.—the endeavor was named the Neenan Challenge. The results were impressive: 26,346 donors responded to ensure success and make a statement: supporting Boston College is a worthy effort requiring collective commitment.
That’s why we are pleased to introduce the William B. Neenan, S.J., Society, which recognizes alumni who make annual gifts of any amount in consecutive years. This new giving society was personally endorsed by Father Neenan as both his exhortation to alumni and one of his aspirations for Boston College—raising the alumni giving participation rate to a level that matches or exceeds that of our peer institutions and reflects the alumni passion for BC that he has personally witnessed for over 30 years.
The society’s founding members are those undergraduate alumni who made a gift at any time last year (before May 31) to Boston College, and who are willing to renew their support at any level again this year. Your loyalty and support ensures an immediate and lasting impact on BC’s daily educational mission.
ABOUT FATHER NEENAN
A proud native of Iowa, Fr. Neenan came to Boston College in 1979 as the first Thomas I. Gasson Professor. He served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 1980 to 1987 before assuming the role of academic vice president and dean of faculties. During his tenure, the University established itself among the nation’s top institutions of higher education. Since 1998, he has been vice president and special assistant to the president.
A master of the art of conversation, Fr. Neenan is renowned for his incomparable ability to engage and inspire others. He is the founder of the popular luncheon club that support undergraduates far from their homes, and he has produced “The Dean’s List” for 25 years to share his passion for good books. For all of these reasons and more, it is no wonder that William B. Neenan, S.J., is often described by those who know him as “the soul of the University.”