Beyond the Bedside: A Look at Spartans in Nursing | Page 31

“Hello—It is a pleasure to meet you. I am
Eric, and I work for the College of Nursing at
Michigan State University.”

serves as a champion, helping people connect
their philanthropic passion to advances in
nursing science, education, and practice.

With a joyful smile and a warm handshake, the
alum from 1974 replies, “Nice to meet you. What
do you do for the College?” I, in turn, state, “I
am the Director of Development and Alumni
Relations.” The joyful smile turns to a slight
puzzled look when I am asked, “Are you the guy
who asks for money?”

Donors seeking “impact” tend to share
common objectives.

This exchange is not uncommon in Eric L.
Sturdy, Jr.’s profession. But his rol