At Barton College, student-athletes are a central part of our community. Their hard work in both sports and academics shows the resilience, leadership, and commitment that is core to the Barton mission. As an alumnus/na, you have a unique opportunity to play a vital role in enhancing their experience. Whether through financial support or volunteering your time, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these athletes, helping to shape their journey during their time at Barton.
One of the most immediate and impactful ways to get involved is by participating in Clash of the Bulldogs, Barton’s annual peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, happening from September 23-27, 2024. This exciting week brings together the Barton community in a united effort to rally behind our 26 varsity teams. By making a gift during this period, you contribute to the essential resources that our teams need—whether it’s updated equipment, team-building experiences, or travel expenses for away games. As Katie Thomason, Director of Development and Alumni Engagement, notes, “Gifts made during the Clash of the Bulldogs are essential for all teams, enabling us to meet the increasing needs of our student-athletes and provide the support required for their continued growth and achievement.”
Another way to get involved is by becoming a member of the Bulldog Club. This membership-based group is dedicated to advancing Barton’s athletic programs, offering members special benefits like access to exclusive events and behind-the-scenes updates on our teams. But most importantly, the funds raised through the Bulldog Club go directly toward improving the overall student-athlete experience. “Our alumni have not only paved the path to where we are today, but your continued support helps us grow and enhance our student-athletes’ experience every day,” says Jamie Grodecki, Associate Athletic Director for External Operations and Facility Operations. “Being a Bulldog is not just for four years; it means being part of the Bulldog family for a lifetime.”
Being part of the Bulldog Club allows you to stay connected, while making a tangible difference in the experience of current athletes. To join the Bulldog Club, visit https://give.barton.edu/bulldog-club/
Beyond financial contributions, volunteering your time is an invaluable way to give back. Whether it’s helping with game-day operations, assisting with promotional activities, or simply greeting fans at events, your presence adds to the vibrant atmosphere of Barton’s athletic events. Volunteering also offers the chance to reconnect with campus and directly engage with student-athletes, offering them support and mentorship as they balance their academic and athletic commitments.
Mentorship is an important way to influence the lives of student-athletes. Many of these students are preparing for careers after college, and alumni can play a crucial role by offering guidance and advice. Whether through career advising or participating in programming for our students throughout the academic year, you can help our athletes prepare for life beyond Barton. Offering feedback on resumes, conducting mock interviews, or simply sharing your professional experiences can make a huge impact. With the Alumni Engagement team, The Office of Academic and Career Planning can help connect you with opportunities to mentor and work directly with our student-athletes, allowing you to provide them with the support they need as they transition to their professional lives.
Attending games is a powerful way to support Barton’s athletes. Simply showing up can boost team morale and remind our athletes that they have the full backing of the Barton community. When alumni fill the stands, it strengthens the bond between our students and those that have shared similar experiences, motivating our athletes to give their best and carry the Bulldog spirit with pride. The full schedule of athletic events can be found at https://bartonbulldogs.com/calendar.
Finally, you can help extend your support by spreading the word. Whether it’s sharing news about Clash of the Bulldogs, encouraging others to join the Bulldog Club, or promoting upcoming games on social media, your voice can amplify the impact of Barton’s athletic programs. Your influence can inspire others to get involved, creating a ripple effect of support for our student-athletes.
Alumni involvement is key to ensuring the Bulldog spirit continues for generations to come. Many former student-athletes remain connected to Barton’s athletics program because they understand firsthand the impact their participation had on their lives. Whether you choose to give during the Clash of the Bulldogs, join the Bulldog Club, volunteer, mentor, or simply attend a game, your involvement makes a lasting difference.
Get involved September 23-27 and join us in making this year’s Clash of the Bulldogs the most successful one yet. Visit gobulldogs.barton.edu to learn more and make a gift. Your support can make all the difference!