She and Bob Chipman ’74 have embraced their roles as co-chairs of the Illinois College Society since its launch in 2017. The challenge they posed to Illinois College alumni to give back to today’s students references the beloved poems of American writer Langston Hughes. His work “Dreams” includes this apt line that extols the power of dreams: “Hold fast to dreams for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.”

The Chipmans are familiar faces at IC, often seen walking across campus, which is centrally located a few blocks from Bob’s downtown real estate office and their Jacksonville home. Being on campus nearly every day serves as a reminder of how influential the College has been in their lives. Their connection to IC’s premier annual giving circling is also deeply personal. Both were very involved as students — as members of literary societies, Student Forum and serving as class officers. They were also both first-generation college students who have never taken for granted the doors that education opened for them.

After graduation, the Chipmans stayed involved, each serving on the Alumni Association Board and volunteering whenever asked. Janet has assisted with the Fine Arts Series, the Ritsumeikan Cultural Exchange Program and currently serves on the advisory board for Purpose, Passion & Philanthropy, a newly launched initiative to empower women in philanthropy. Bob has served on the Illinois College Board of Trustees for 21 years. Both their sons, Timothy Chipman ’01 and Andrew Chipman ’04, graduated from the College.

As leaders in IC’s philanthropic community today, they understand that tuition and fees cover less than half of the total operating budget of the College and appreciate how valuable each gift is, especially as Inspiring Achievement launches.

“We are so grateful for the invaluable role IC played in the fulfilling of our dreams, in our sons’ dreams – providing brick and mortar, supportive staff and endearing professors, new-found friends – providing opportunities of academic excellence, expanding leadership and growing service. We feel strongly that those who graduated from Illinois College were given a gift and the Inspiring Achievement campaign is the time to give back,” said Bob.

They both agree that there is a renewed sense of energy at Illinois College, with the leadership of President Barbara A. Farley and the reimagining of the Illinois College Society, dedicated to embracing the dynamic and valuable leadership role that alumni and friends play at the College through their philanthropy. The Chipmans are excited about the new ways that Society members have been able to actively participate in what is happening at the College such as last year’s Sculpture Walk hosted by art faculty and students, the recent Society event to honor the 40th anniversary of softball and several special receptions held before concerts. A Night in Havana is being planned for this summer to celebrate IC’s connections to Cuba. Society members are encouraged to bring their families and friends to join them for this festive evening.

“Illinois College is so steeped in tradition, which is what makes it so beautiful and unique. We want to preserve valuable traditions, but we also have to be wise and adapt to the 21st-century world around us. It’s about finding that balance — holding on to what is important while expanding and growing to serve new generations,” said Janet. “In order to do both well the college needs philanthropic support.”

The Chipmans cite the resurgence of a strong Debate & Speech program and the continued relevance of literary societies as important links to the past. They have also observed a deep commitment by College leadership towards expanding the arts, academic innovation and athletic programs which have always been a valuable part of the Illinois College experience. Bob and Janet remain firm believers in the power of a liberal arts education and celebrate IC’s small class sizes and the one-on-one relationships that have long been emphasized as an important part of the Illinois College experience. They hope that the Campaign inspires those in the Jacksonville community and beyond to take a renewed interest in the College.

“We are big supporters of the Jacksonville community and see Illinois College as an important part of that economy. Illinois College brings people and students to the area making Jacksonville a much richer community,” said Bob.

To those who are curious about what is happening at Illinois College today and how they can decide if joining the Illinois College Society is right for them, the Chipmans encourage finding way to connect with the College to learn more.

“I think that the more you become involved with the College, the more that you want to give,” said Janet. “You see the wonderful things happening and the impact that you can have on the lives of students.”

Illinois College Society members make a meaningful impact

Illinois College Society members are changing the lives of students at IC and inspiring others to do the same. Members of IC’s premier giving circle play a leadership role in ensuring the College realizes its vision to build an international reputation for inspiring   achievement and empowering students to make a difference in the world. Membership is renewable annually and based on gifts of   $1,000 or more made during the College’s fiscal year, which begins on June 1 and ends on May 31. Any questions about the Illinois College Society can be directed to Chloe Neisler Lucca ’14, director of development and alumni relations, at 217.245.3047 or chloe.lucca@ic.edu. Visit www.ic.edu/icsociety to learn more.