UCCS alumnus and supporter Steve Parker shares what philanthropy means to him.
Q: Tell us about your experience with philanthropy at UCCS.
A: I earned my undergraduate degree in sociology and my master’s in public administration from UCCS, and over the years I’ve contributed to individual colleges, scholarship funds, and food and clothing drives. I like supporting a variety of needs because our student population represents a true slice of the population in this country—we all have needs, and helping to cover them is important to me.
I care deeply about public and private sector leadership in Colorado Springs, southern Colorado, and across the state, and most of my contributions go to the College of Public Service, where I completed my graduate degree.
Philanthropy is something I deeply believe in. My mother taught me the importance of giving time, treasure and talent to improve the lives of others. We’re all capable of contributing at different levels to make the world a better place. I’ve seen philanthropy change students’ lives through scholarships, travel opportunities, basic-needs support, and programs like Clyde’s Closet that help students prepare for entering the job market. I have also benefited from the generosity of philanthropic individuals and organizations who have supported facilities and programs—like the Ent Center for the Arts—that I’ve enjoyed and learned from.
Q: How has philanthropic support impacted your life or work? Can you share an experience that stands out?
A: I once had a friend who was going through some difficult circumstances—she became the sole provider for her family with two small children. Scholarships made it possible for her to stay in school and complete a degree she was passionate about, and she eventually became gainfully employed and was a success story. That experience showed me that there are many people who need just a little bit of help to pursue their lifelong dreams. What we may consider a small amount of help can be monumental to them.
I participate in the UCCS scholarship review process, which has allowed me to learn about students’ lives, dreams and challenges. Reviewing these stories has made me more appreciative of the encouragement I’ve received in my own life, and it motivates me to offer the same support to others.
Q: UCCS Giving Day features several funding priorities. Which matter most to you, and why?
A: It’s hard to choose because each area meets a critical need. But if I had to highlight a few, I’d point to scholarships, first-generation student success, and mental health support.
For a long time, higher education has done a good job of addressing physical health, and I’m glad to see more attention now going toward students’ mental and emotional well-being. Many students are away from their families for the first time and need support to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Last summer, I had the chance to meet several first-generation students at UCCS’s anniversary celebration. Many came from rural parts of Colorado, most were from minority families, and many had parents who didn’t graduate from high school. They spoke candidly about how college had never been encouraged or financially possible, but thanks to scholarships and special programs, they found an opportunity at UCCS. Their gratitude and determination were inspiring—they took what could have been seen as disadvantages and turned them into motivation to create change.
Q: What would you say to someone considering making a gift to UCCS?
A: I would encourage them wholeheartedly. The benefits of philanthropy might not always be immediately visible or measurable to the donor, but they are transformative for the people who receive them. I like to share the story of the person tossing starfish back into the ocean one at a time. When someone asked why—given how many starfish there were on the beach—the person replied, “It made a difference for that one.” That’s what philanthropy is: trying to make a difference for someone else.
Q: What has been your greatest takeaway from your relationship with UCCS?
A: UCCS has enriched my life in countless ways. I grew up in a single-parent household, and we didn’t have the means for me to attend college anywhere but locally. UCCS provided an excellent education that has shaped my professional and personal life and allowed me to be very successful. Had it not been for UCCS, I don’t know what my path would have been.