What Donors Have Made Possible

Young Donors: Why They Give Back

Holly Fosher ’16 ’18G

Donates money to support: Recreation Management & Policy program, scholarships

Let’s start with an easy question: what inspired you to make a gift to UNH? I chose to donate because I received an alumni scholarship during my undergrad that meant so much to me as a first-generation college student. I also loved my time with the Recreation Management & Policy Department, so I always try and give back what I can to the program and people that shaped me into who I am today.

What would you say to younger donors like yourself who might be on the fence about supporting UNH? I’ve learned that it’s not the amount you give, but the number of alumni who are willing to donate back to your program that matters. So even if it’s the same amount of money that a cup of coffee would cost, I still donate because I know the sum of all the donations is what will make a difference.

headshot of Holly Fosher
Let’s go down memory lane: Who are some of the people you considered mentors at UNH, and what’s something you miss from campus? I have too many incredible mentors to shout out, but many of them are still working for Career and Professional Success (CaPS) and Housing and Residential Life! They are two incredible resources on campus that I wish I had used earlier. I would give up my big left pinky toe in exchange for a D-Hop pizza slice. I miss their pizza so much!

Onto present-day: How’s it going in Wisconsin? Although I miss New England, I am really enjoying the Midwest! I’m working in employer relations at a university, so I’ve been connecting with various employers to build experiential learning opportunities for students: internship opportunities, job shadowing programs, career fairs and more. When I’m not working, I’m trying to go back to my roots from my recreation management and policy major and get outdoors as much as possible! There are incredible lakeshores in Wisconsin and hiking trails — not the White Mountains, but I’ll take it!

Any advice to UNH students or recent alumni? Don’t be afraid to reach out to an alum on LinkedIn for career advice! I’ve connected with so many alumni who have been incredible and willing to give me advice and mentorship about my career. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the UNH community to help steer and support me through each step I’ve taken since graduating, even if I didn’t know them beforehand!