Got Philanthropy?

"I don't think you ever stop giving. I really don't. I think it's an ongoing process. And it's not just about being able to write a check. It's about being able to touch somebody's life."    

~Oprah Winfrey

Whether you know it or not, philanthropy has touched almost everyone's life in some form. This could be in the form of scholarships or gifts. Many institutions such as the University of Iowa are touched daily by philanthropic activities. Philanthropy can be broadly defined as love for humankind. It is derived from the Greek words "philos," which means loving and "anthropos," which means humankind. 

Philanthropy is thousands of years old. Like modern philanthropists, ancient people practiced philanthropy for different reasons. Some reasons were kindness and concern for the common good. Some people used philanthropy as a way to gain recognition, prestige, and power and others saw philanthropy as a way to gain the favor of the gods.

Philanthropy is important because it provides opportunities and has the ability to impact future generations. As a member of the Student Philanthropy Group or PHIL at the University of Iowa, I act as an ambassador on campus. The purpose is to build awareness among students about the importance of private support in enhancing their educational experience at Iowa, and to actively engage current UI students in all aspects of philanthropy.

Today kicks off PHIL's Week at the University of Iowa! This is a week we in PHIL dedicate to raising awareness of philanthropy on campus. Today on campus students and faculty will be wearing stickers that say "I am PHIL" to raise awareness. Tomorrow morning, all PHIL members will "tag" the buildings impacted by philanthropy on campus with yellow caution tape that says PHIL Was Here. Wednesday we are holding a Faces of PHIL event on the T. Anne Cleary Walkway. The Faces of Phil event will show how peoples’ gifts are transforming the University of Iowa! You can take a Polaroid and post it on our Faces of Phil board, “PHIL up” at our food trucks, and sign a “thank you” postcard (or record a “thank you” video message) for some of our generous donors. Join us to celebrate the power of Phil at Iowa!

https://www.facebook.com/events/182459585598312/

Finally, Thursday we are have the Life with PHIL talk featuring Sheri Salata. Come and learn more about Phil from media powerhouse Sheri Salata (1980 B.B.A.), the former executive producer of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and the former president of Harpo Studios and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Salata’s latest professional venture is the launching of STORY, a media company that produces print, television, film, and digital content. She has been named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business and one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1909839572586897/

Philanthropy is more than just money. You have the chance and opportunity to impact future generations. Philanthropy is sharing one’s resources but it also delves into one’s passion to create and enhance civil society. So when you have the opportunity to be a philanthropist, DON'T MISS IT!

1,2,3...ABC...

Since I was young, dancing has been an enormous part of my life. Beginning dance at the age of 3, I had no idea how far my love would grow. I began like most little girls do, participating in every form of dance: ballet, tap, jazz, etc. Throughout the years, I found tap dancing to be the most challenging for me and developed a love for it.

Tap Dancing originated in the United States via a mix of percussive dances. Throughout the decades, tap dancing has evolved. During the 1920's tap shoes became known as they are today with the "taps" nailed or screwed onto the shoe at the toes and heels. Shows such as Shuffle Along (1921) helped to give tap dancing its name. 

Tap is unique because it is music and movement. Different countries and regions have varied tap styles such as Irish step dancing and Mexican ballet folkórico. In the United States, tap dancing has undergone a revival. This can be seen in the movie Happy Feet an exceptional tap dancer, the penguin Mumble, stands out from the rest. Today, tapping is a multicultural style that conveys numerous traditions, emotions, and rhythms.

So, why does Tap Dance ROCK?!

1.  Anyone can do it.
2.  The Legacy.
3. It's the Music and the Attraction.
4. It's Noisy!
5. It's Fun Fitness!
6. It makes you Smarter!
7. Improves Balance.
8. It's Everywhere.
9. It's Entertaining!

Tap Dancing has changed my life for the better and is a past-time I never want to give up. I have never encountered something as simple and complex as tap dancing. I relate to it on the most basic, visceral levels, but also the most abstract. Creating music and movement simultaneously allows me to be equally logical and imaginative. That is why moving to music feels so good; moving in order to make music feels even better. If you want to see me perform something I love, attend the 2017 Miss Iowa Scholarship Program on June 22, 23, and 24!

STAY TAPPY!