Stories to tell

What did UD do for you? It’s a question Bill Stankey ’80 could spend an hour answering, but he’d rather hear your story.

Stankey is a volunteer co-chair helping the University prepare for its first comprehensive campaign since Call to Lead generated more than $150 million for the University in the late 1990s.

“University of Dayton absolutely, 100%, changed my life,” said Stankey, founder of a talent management company. “I was the first one in my family to go to college. I made great friends at UD. The sense of community is remarkable. You get a great education both in the classroom and outside. And you build these lifelong relationships.”

He also knows that such magic doesn’t happen by chance, with the Marianists at the heart of that intentional connectivity.

As a co-chair, Stankey said he plans to have conversations about ways people can connect their passions and desire to give back to the campaign’s goals of philanthropy, engagement and participation. Key among fundraising initiatives will be scholarships and tuition accessibility, expanded hands-on learning for all students, and academic innovation.

“As one of our co-chairs, Bill will help lead a cabinet of volunteers whose work on this campaign will ensure the UD experience is available for generations of students,” said Jen Howe, vice president for advancement. “His personal story is remarkable. His belief that UD changed the trajectory of his life and his passion for the unique education available at this special place make Bill the perfect person to ask others to join the conversation around giving back of time, expertise and philanthropy.”

“Good opportunities come as a result of having an education — now more than ever.”

Stankey, who remembers a $700 tuition bill that almost kept him from graduating, has with his wife, Mary Lalli, established the Stankey Family Pay it Forward Scholarship. It will allow recipients to graduate debt free.

“Good opportunities come as a result of having an education — now more than ever,” Stankey said.

And all students deserve the opportunity to develop their own UD stories to tell.

Fast facts

Favorite abode: Founders Hall

Campus job: Student Association director of entertainment

Booked: Queen, Earth Wind & Fire, Bob Dylan, Yes, the Ramones and more

Place to be: Sunday noon Mass at the chapel. “It was an electric experience.”

Profession: President and founder of Westport Entertainment Associates

“If you wear the hat, people will stop you and say, ‘Go Flyers.’ ”