The generosity of the Helen and Will Webster Foundation has had dramatic impact at UC Santa Cruz. Their support has created new programs and classes, rebuilt a barn into an environmental center, established five endowed chairs in five different areas, and endowed a college in the name of environmental pioneer Rachel Carson.
The Websters are active volunteers and see the impact of their giving with each new focus, but UCSC wanted to create something that encompassed the full range of the results of their generosity. Something they could choose to share with other family members and which did not feel like a capstone marking the end of their giving. The stewardship team created a unique storybook-an 8" x 10" hardcover, 40-page visual book-that frames their giving through an environmental lens, that not only honors the direct impact of their gifts, but its ripple effect on the university. Their philanthropy can be tied to additional millions of dollars from others, sometimes in unexpected ways. And its impact has been felt far beyond the university-which was captured through the voices of such cultural leaders as Alice Waters, of lawmakers and public policy experts, of academic leaders and students.
From the Judges' Report
Stunning visually. Showed philanthropy in action---photography is beautiful. The fact that it was created for one donor family exhibits particular thoughtfulness. Quality and execution rose to another level.
