Student Philanthropist of the Year
This award recognizes a Miami University student or student group who has been highly engaged in philanthropic activities and/or has demonstrated leadership by supporting or implementing a fundraising program. The student’s or student group's fundraising activity may or may not be for the benefit of the university but must have fostered a culture of giving.
Each year, the Miami University Glee Club becomes more involved in #MoveInMiami, the university’s annual day of giving. In 2021, the Glee Club exceeded its fundraising goal of $20,000, totaling more than $27,000 in support for scholarships, endowments, club funds and more.
This is due to the diligence of the members of the Glee Club, according to alumnus Lee Fisher ’68, whose Lee and Rosemary Fisher Glee Club Scholarship benefits from #MoveInMiami support.
“It’s a highly organized effort to reach out to as many people as possible, both pre-#MoveInMiami and afterward with thank yous,” Fisher said. “They’ve got the whole process to be successful down to a science. They know what’s worked best for them in the past and they continue to plug away at that.”
The philanthropic spirit extends beyond #MoveInMiami. Embracing Miami’s Code of Love and Honor, the Glee Club established a new tradition with Love and Honor Day, held this year on Feb. 28. With mini concerts on campus and in the community, the Glee Club spread Miami’s message and raised funds for the Oxford Community Choice Pantry, now known as Talawanda Oxford Pantry and Social Services, and Vibrant Emotional Health.
“I think the students really understand the meaning of giving back,” said Jeremy Jones, conductor of the Glee Club and associate professor of music. “It really enhances their Miami Experience. It shows they are committed. They are engaged and they have a sense of leadership in the organization as a whole, with the university and in the community.”