Give back: why it's personal
I’ve long believed that education is the foundation of our society’s future. Concordia’s teaching and research contributes to our city, country, world by adding knowledge, making us safer and healthier, improving our quality of life.
That’s why I gladly donated to my alma maters even before I arrived at Concordia in 1996. Since then, I’ve contributed a modest portion of my salary to the university through payroll deduction.
I come from a tradition with the expectation that everyone give back to the community. The assumption is that we’re all in it together — a large family. And of course I’m going to lend support to my extended family. I feel the same about Concordia and our team.
That doesn’t make me special in these parts — Advancement and Alumni Relations (AAR) — because literally everyone here gives to the Community Campaign.
I believe the AAR folks willingly contribute because they see a direct line between their donations and quality university education. We witness how and where the funds are used and understand the value of the act of giving to Concordia.
When I was a student — many years ago! — a scholarship allowed me to buy my first, much-needed personal computer. In my decade and a half here, I’ve met countless students who’ve expressed, often emotionally, their sincere gratitude for receiving similar awards that helped them succeed at university.
Whether backing students in financial need, encouraging outstanding scholarship, attracting top professors, financing vital research, contributing to the libraries or athletics, among other essential areas, each of our contributions has an impact.
I’m proud to work at Concordia for those same reasons. I’m able to support its scholarly, research and community missions through my day job. Yet that alone is not enough.
That’s why I agreed to appear on posters you may have seen around campus and in the new video to help promote the 2013 Community Campaign. That’s why I participate in the Concordia Mentor Program. That’s why I choose to donate.
The question isn’t, why give?
It’s, why not give? For me, the answer is simple: There is no reason not to give. It’s our community and our choice.
Howard Bokser, MBA 85, is managing editor of Concordia University Magazine.