The Shields Society recognizes the thoughtful generosity of those who have made planned gifts to UC Davis or UC Davis Health. We thank our donors each year with a luncheon on campus followed by an activity. This year, as we carefully resumed our in-person events, we welcomed 124 guests that spent a joyous afternoon enjoying lunch, learning about the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, and planting their own mini-succulent garden. This year, our partner for the event was the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden; as such, we decided to include a planting demonstration activity. The collaboration resulted in the “Cultivating Growth” mini-succulent garden event where guests could take a piece of the arboretum home with them after enjoying lunch and learning about the impact the arboretum has on our campus, community, and beyond.
From the Judges
The panel felt this was a unique and thoughtful take on a traditional giving society event. The judges were particularly fond of the mission-driven approach to the takeaway, venue, and theme. The panel congratulates you on your attendance rate and feels this approach is transferrable to other institutions who are looking to bring more intention and meaning to their giving society stewardship events.
