'Imagine' initiative to engage key leaders in significant conversations
Kim Chaudoin | 615.966.6494 |
Lipscomb University recently launched Imagine, a new program designed to convene conversations of significance that will bring leaders from around the world to Nashville to engage the community in topics of local and global importance and to share their stories and unique perspectives.
Imagine is a series of discussions that will take place over the next five years to examine critical issues and develop solutions to impact communities around the world.
“Lipscomb University has a reputation for being a neutral convener of significant conversations in our community,” said John Lowry, vice president for development and external affairs at Lipscomb. “Imagine gives us the opportunity to expand that to a national and international level. With this initiative, we are taking what we do well and being more impactful and strategic with these conversations so that they have a greater impact.”
Imagine will debut Feb. 29, 2016, when President George W. Bush comes to Lipscomb’s Allen Arena to share his experiences and insights. The event is an invitation-only for Lipscomb Associates, donors of $1,000 or more annually, to consider the 2016 theme — “Nashville: An Emerging City with Global Significance.” The initiative will continue throughout the spring with a series of working group conversations and will culminate with a published report of recommendations produced by Imagine participants.
“We want Lipscomb to be a driving force for positive collaboration and change,” said Lowry. “So often people talk about problems that exist in our communities, but we want Imagine to foster conversations that lead to solutions. We want to be a source of problem-solving and hope.”
Donors may participate at the Associate, Catalyst Associate, Leadership Associate or Avalon Associate levels. Each includes various levels of membership benefits for the Feb. 29 event. To qualify to attend the event, donations of $1,000 or more must be made by Dec. 31, 2015. To become an associate or for current associates to claim their seats for the event contact Jenny Lovell at jenny.lovell [at] lipscomb.edu or 615.426.8574 or visit www.lipscomb.edu/giving/associates.
“Lipscomb Associates are the university’s core partners who make scholarships, special initiatives, academic enrichment and more happen,” said Lowry. “Today, students stretch and work hard to provide financial support that, despite their families’ sacrifices and dedication, covers only about 75 percent of the cost of an education. Associates fill in the essential gap.”
“We are looking to our associates to be key partners in this new initiative to help Lipscomb students imagine a better world, and we need them to help Lipscomb make the world a better place by partnering with us at the highest level,” he continued.
University students will also have an opportunity to participate in a separate, student-led forum with Bush prior to the main program.