In his other life, Frank Demes, CCAS MFA ’94, is a painter. He started working with GW’s University Police Department as a graduate art student, and stayed on after earning a degree. Demes is one of the more than 2,600 faculty and staff who also are GW alumni. “The University needs everyone’s support to establish a foundation that serves the future of GW, just as your retirement fund serves your future endeavors,” said Demes. “GW has been contributing to my retirement fund for many years, now its time to reciprocate.”
Leslie Jacobson is a professor, mentor, award-winning playwright, and parent of a GW student. She is the founding artistic director of the 30-year-old Horizons Theatre, the “longest running” women’s theatre in the United States. Jacobson inaugurated a program on women and international culture at GW’s Mount Vernon Campus, and helped to forge the University’s partnership with the Shakespeare Theatre Company. “Working with students, we touch the future as well as the present,” explained Jacobson. “A directed gift to my department and its programs can help ensure that future for students and faculty.”
Fred Siegel wears many hats at GW. He is an advisor, disciplinarian, and friend to freshman. He champions the many virtues of the Mount Vernon Campus. And he is a generous donor to the University where he works. “Giving to GW has strengthened my connection to the University and its mission,” said Siegel. “Making a financial contribution, in addition to my daily ‘contributions,’ helps me to know that I’m doing all I can to make GW the strongest university in the District.”
The students that know Mike Tapscott best speak glowingly about “Mr. Tapscott’s” efforts to engage diverse groups of students through the Multicultural Student Services Center. Three decades of experience in higher education have taught this D.C. native the value of the university experience and the significant role administrators can play in the lives of students. “Working in a university setting has provided me with a number of opportunities to try to be a man of value in the lives of young people,” said Tapscott. “Giving is a joyful responsibility.”