Wow. To have come this far in so little time is incredible to me as a student and to our entire class as a collaborative group. Through the Learning By Giving Foundation, 20 some-odd students have been exposed to the amazing gift of giving during a time in world history when taking is becoming more important than giving. It is so important to recognize the fact that through this class, we were allowed to create actual impact through calculated study in order to perform the most good - and that is invaluable to our education as future leaders. 

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I think, personally, that the experience to measure, discuss, and dispute metrics of philanthropy is a skill that will impact the remainder of my life. Even if we do not all go on to start a nonprofit, work for a nonprofit, or even be involved with a nonprofit, the ability to understand giving and how to give effectively is a skill (1) not many people have and (2) necessary to create tangible good in your local and global community. Thankfully, because of this class, there will be a group of students every year trained to teach and understand how important rational giving is to others. 

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I would like to thank Alex Miller for his invaluable advice, teaching, and hilarious words of wisdom. His wit, intelligence and keen business sense has put my idealist thoughts about how nonprofits function on the ground. The realistic approach he has to teaching and encouraging us in our pursuits without coddling us is something few professors have done for me as a student. Many have inspired me no holds barred; "You can do anything!" While others have told me my dreams and plans are either not worth it or impossible. Somehow Dr. Miller found the in-between and both inspired and grounded us to pursue change.

 

In addition, I would like to thank Mr. Jim Haslam and Mr. Jim Clayton for their incredible investments in our class and in the Knoxville area. Knowing how much impact they have had on philanthropic giving in Tennessee and elsewhere, it was a great compliment that they wanted to help fund our giving.

 

I also would like to thank Ellie Mudge for pushing Hayley, Ty and me to document and create the best examination of our class's efforts to learn effective giving. Thank you for encouraging us and helping us document this class.  

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Lastly, I would like to thank my classmates. Having only known all of you for 4 months, I have been so incredibly inspired and humbled by your ideas, passions and excitement for your futures. You are some of the hardest working and kindest people I have ever met, and I will never forget how exciting it was to meet with all of you once a week. Having been in school for five years, I have never been in a class with people who cared as much as this class. I truly hope your passions and hard work come to fruition in the future of your careers or adult life. Learning with all of you has been a gift I will not forget.