Make A Difference

In my experience, people lend financial support to an institution ultimately for the same reason. They want to make a difference.

They want to make a difference in the life of the institution, because they believe that institution will, in turn, make a difference in the world. That’s the real pay-off.

It’s no surprise that the 85-year history of the Maxwell School has been impacted by remarkable acts of philanthropy. In fact, the School was launched by an initial “Big Bang” of philanthropy. In 1924, patriotic businessman George Maxwell made a major gift to create a school devoted to the study and teaching of citizenship, and housing a professional program for public officials and leaders. Since then, we have expanded to incorporate international programs, undergraduate instruction, graduate education, and research opportunities in an array of social sciences (e.g., economics, political science, history, geography).

At each step of the way, we have benefited from the support of individuals, foundations, and government agencies who believe what we do is important. In just the past few years, for example, a major government grant endowed our global-studies center, a Syracuse-area foundation underwrote financial aid for community-minded students, and major individual gifts created professorships in citizenship and in strategic leadership. Steady annual support from our alumni and other friends has helped keep student and faculty support growing.

Why do these people make these gifts? Because they believe Maxwell makes a difference, and they’re only too happy to help. We owe them and you our undying thanks. Together we can all make a difference.

--- Mitchel Wallerstein, Dean of the Maxwell School