Melissa Shore ’11 Reke: Giving back since graduation

(Generosity Matters is a series of spotlight stories about alumni who give back to Augustana College.)

It's unusual to find students or very recent graduates who understand the importance of giving back to those institutions and causes that helped shape their lives.

But for Melissa Shore ’11 Reke, she learned that lesson from her mom, gave her first gift to Augustana during her senior year, and has given every year since.

“My mother attended Augustana, and I always remember her making a gift each year," Reke said. "My mother demonstrated the value of giving back, which made an impact on me. I continue to follow her example of generosity.”

She says generosity is an important core value in her life.

“I appreciate all of the experiences I had at Augustana that have shaped me into the person I am today," she shared. "Giving a gift to Augie is a way for me to give back to a place that gave me so much.”

Through her gifts, Reke hopes more students will be able to have diverse and rich learning opportunities, both inside and outside of the classroom.

Reke, a division engagement specialist for Thrivent Financial in Cincinnati, Ohio, understands the difference a liberal arts education can make.

“I think the most important work Augustana does is to teach students to think critically about issues and learn how to collaborate with individuals who are different from themselves,” she said.

These are skills she uses every day in her job. “I am a remote employee, working with deployed teams across America, so I often leverage my communication and leadership skills I developed while at Augustana.”

Reke also gives of her time and talent by serving on the Alumni Board for the past three years. She now has a greater understanding of the importance of alumni giving.

“Every gift makes a difference!" she explained. "I didn’t realize for the longest time that the percentage of alumni who give makes an impact. Every gift, no matter the amount, helps make a positive impact on both the college ranking and on students’ lives.”

Reke's generosity also extends to her community. She recently began volunteering as an urban gardener to help distribute fresh vegetables to individuals in a transitional housing program that helps the homeless and struggling families get a second chance in life. Her Senior Inquiry project at Augustana was on food insecurity.

“Augustana provides a wonderful liberal arts education that equips students to make a positive impact in the communities in which they live and work after graduation,” Reke said. “The core skills developed at Augie prepare students for whatever is next in their lives.

“I am thankful for all the experiences and relationships I had while at Augie. I hope my gift can help another student have a similar experience.”