Passionate People

Penn faculty, students, and alumni are distinguished not only by uncommon vision, but also by a relentless drive to follow through on the things they care about. By force of mind and body, Penn’s men and women are fueling a rich world of possibilities on campus and beyond. Because our passionate people are our lifeblood, Making History sets its sights on the following goals:

• Opening Doors to the Best and the Brightest > undergraduate scholarships, graduate and professional student aid
• Cultivating Eminent Scholars for Today and Tomorrow > professorships and faculty support
• Harnessing the Power of Alumni > non-financial and engagement goals

Opening Doors to the Best and the Brightest

Recognizing the links among a socioeconomically diverse student body, equity, and academic excellence, the University has made ensuring access to a Penn education its highest priority. By opening its doors to students of talent and high potential regardless of their financial circumstances, Penn not only helps these men and women achieve their promise as individuals, but also creates an academic community that expands the perspectives of all who are a part of it. Making History will fulfill what President Amy Gutmann has called “our sacred trust” by significantly building Penn’s undergraduate, graduate, and professional student aid resources.

Cultivating Eminent Scholars for Today and Tomorrow

On this campus of engaged and active learners, Penn’s faculty is a defining force. Their enthusiasm for and commitment to scholarship and teaching have made Penn one of the most intellectually vibrant universities today. Through their teaching and research, outstanding faculty advance knowledge, contribute to social progress, and deepen our understanding of every dimension of the human experience. They are also essential to creating the next generation of scholars, drawing talented men and women to Penn and nurturing their academic development once here. Making History will substantially strengthen Penn’s ability to attract and retain world-class faculty by building endowment to support professorships as well as directorships and visiting scholar programs.

Harnessing the Power of Alumni

“Our signature in the world.” That’s how President Amy Gutmann describes Penn’s global alumni community, now 290,000 strong. Their intellectual energy and entrepreneurial spirit are needed in today’s world and empower Penn to pursue its ambitious vision with confidence. When drawn together in common cause, Penn alumni are a formidable force for good, using their talents and connections to strengthen the University, support each other, and better the world. Making History will broaden and deepen Penn’s most important relationships by expanding opportunities for engagement in all aspects of University life and by growing the number of alumni who participate in annual and planned giving.

Continue to Practical Pursuits>
Return to The Vision >