The transformative progress of Together We Rise, launched in September 2024, demonstrates the collective dedication of the entire Merrimack community, President Christopher E. Hopey, Ph.D., said during his Evening of Gratitude remarks.
Addressing over 250 guests gathered in the Collegiate Church of Christ the Teacher on Thursday, Sept. 18, President Hopey announced Together We Rise has raised just over $71 million toward its $100 million goal. He attributed the effort in part to the renewed sense of philanthropy from first-time donors to long-time supporters.
“This is what happens when people believe not only in a college, but in a vision,” President Hopey said in his remarks. “Everyone here sees what is possible. On behalf of the entire Merrimack community, I thank you for your support, for your partnership, and for your unwavering belief in what Merrimack can achieve.”
Evening of Gratitude is an annual celebration of donors, alumni and members of the Merrimack community who go above and beyond for Merrimack. Among those honored this year were the Rev. Joseph Calderone, O.S.A., a former trustee and president of Merrimack College, as well as distinguished alumni Richard Connell ‘84, Laurence Demers ‘60, H’11 and Nancy Sullivan ‘80, H’15.
The evening featured a performance by the Merrimack College Spirit Squad and the event was kicked off by Merrimack faculty, staff and students sharing how supporters’ generosity are helping to fulfill the key focus areas of Together We Rise: innovation, growth, service and winning.
Board of Trustees Chairman Kevin Lucey ’89, P’24 encouraged guests to stay engaged with life on campus and continue to connect with Merrimack’s mission.
“Don’t do it alone,” Lucey said. “Tell two friends about this campaign. Invite them into the story. Share with them why you care, and ask them to walk alongside us. If each of us brings two more people to the table, imagine how high we can rise.”
