Phonathon Makes a difference for Students!

Classes began August 30 kicking off the academic year at Grinnell. Students continue their journeys and make their own footprints on campus. Many of this year's students find their way to historic Mears Cottage and home of the Grinnell College Phonathon. From September through November the room fills with eager Grinnellians. Students spend a majority of the semester talking with Grinnell alumni, parents, and friends. Their eagerness stems from having a campus job and earning their own money. Their passions receive fuel from conversations with 10,000 fellow Grinnellians. The students network, share stories about campus, and find their way into the 162 year long tradition that is Grinnell. As recipients of the calls, you get to share your perspective about Grinnell, Grinnellians, and how your interactions with Grinnell shaped your life.

The Pioneer Fund employs over 40 students every semester as a part of the Phonathon program. Every evening students fill Mears basement with a high level of energy and passion for Grinnell. Many of these students have had parents and grandparents precede them at Grinnell. There are international students and students from across the United States. All of them are involved in their own way with campus activities and programs. Observing these students share their experiences while making connections with Grinnellians who have come before them, is truly amazing.

The Phonathon program is an important component for annual fundraising at Grinnell. These students account for 16% of our annual fundraising efforts at the College. The students that choose to work for Phonathon are special. They train hard, they work hard, and they have fun while excelling at a demanding profession.

Thank you to those who share yourself with these students. It is because of the supportive Grinnell alumni and parent community that these students experience on-the-job success. When they call, please share your story with today's students. You'll hopefully be surprised at how much you receive from a phone call made from the basement of historic Mears Cottage in Grinnell, Iowa.

Alumni, you can go online to update your phone number and address at the Grinnell Online Directory!