Indiana University Foundation

Imagine a University

John W. Ryan
President Emeritus
Indiana University

Editor’s Note: John W. Ryan, Indiana University’s 14th president, passed away on August 6, 2011, at the age of 81. A few weeks before he died, he wrote this issue’s “Imagine a University.” His topic was the Well House Society, the donor recognition group he helped to create. We print his reflections here in his memory.

When I was president of IU, I imagined a community of donors whose dedication to Indiana University would help fund critical new ventures. Now, I cannot imagine the university without them.

It is well understood that “undesignated” giving to a university is the most difficult kind of fundraising. Naturally, donors are more immediately attracted to needs with which they have a special interest or nostalgic connection. A university president, however, is committed to preserve and enhance the success of all of the institution’s programs. To do so, he needs discretionary funds.

The Well House Society was created to provide such a vital resource to support programs which had not yet caught the donor-public’s attention, and which could empower the university president and others to keep the university on the cutting edge of work for society’s improvement.

Many academic activities which enhance IU’s international reputation today had their start-up support thanks to Well House Society donors. And since its inception, Well House associates’ donations have been critical for preserving and enhancing the university’s quality and heritage.

As president, alumnus, and citizen, I have always been grateful to Well House Society donors. And as I have seen the importance of their philanthropy grow, my appreciation and my thanks have grown as well.

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