The power of
community The power of
community The power of community

Over the past 10 years, the world has been turned upside down several times. But one thing is certain: The bond between the University of Washington and our community of friends, alumni and readers like you has never been stronger.

Remember nine months ago, when the country’s first case of novel coronavirus was identified here in Washington?  UW Medicine established itself as a leader with its groundbreaking research and care for virus patients, while the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation provided vital information to guide policymakers. Meanwhile, many of you lined up to donate masks, gloves and hand sanitizer from your own supplies to UW Medicine. Prominent Husky athletes like Isaiah Thomas and celebrities like Lizzo bought lunches for the hard-working medical center staff. Donations to the UW Medicine Emergency Fund and emergency aid to students started rolling in.

Another sign of our strong community is the comprehensive capital campaign, Be Boundless—For Washington, For the World, which concluded in July. It brought $6.3 billion in private support to the University. One fact really stands out: 230,000 people made gifts to the UW for the first time ever. That breaks down to a stunning 100 new gifts a day over the past decade.

And how about the positive results of the 2019 legislative session? The Legislature came through with a major reinvestment in higher education. That was made possible, in part, by the efforts of alumni and friends who joined with UW Impact, the University’s legislative advocacy nonprofit, to reinforce to state leaders how vital the University is to the state economy.

But I’m just scratching the surface here. The takeaway is that when inspired people get involved, as our Husky community has done again and again, great things happen. That’s a legacy to be proud of.