Xavier University Announces Women of Xavier Philanthropy Circle Initiative

New Orleans LA – Xavier University of Louisiana has announced a new philanthropic endeavor, the Women of Xavier Philanthropy Circle, an initiative designed to capture the growing surge of women across the globe who are fulfilling their desire for involvement and transformative action.

The Circle will have several objectives, including encouraging and growing philanthropy among women, raising awareness of the value of an investment in Xavier University, and helping students to learn their capacity for impacting change and to understand their responsibility to stay aware of current issues and participate in civic life for the common good.

“The Women of Xavier Philanthropy Circle will be comprised of women who believe in philanthropy as a means to ignite change and impact the well-being of humanity, thus contributing to a more just and humane society,” Dr. Gia Soublet, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Xavier. “Its mission will be to increase awareness of philanthropy as a force in shaping the future of the university and our world, with the aim of establishing a lifelong commitment to improving the condition of both.”

Funds raised through the new initiative will focus on three primary areas: need-based student scholarships, student support programs (programs or activities that directly impact the successful matriculation of Xavier students), and current University Priorities (unrestricted gift to address most urgent needs). In June of each year, the membership will make an annual determination of how the funds will be disbursed based on the current state and needs of the University.

Circle members will contribute a minimum of $1,000 annually to the Women’s Fund, with an exception for alumnae and friends who have graduated within the last five years (who may secure membership with a $500 contribution) and current Xavier students (who may establish membership with a $100 contribution). For alumnae, financial membership requirements must supplement annual giving.

Lifetime memberships in the Circle may be attained with a $25,000 endowed gift.

A steering committee of 12 women (10 of whom are Xavier alumnae) are providing leadership to the Women of Xavier Philanthropy Circle initiative, including Josephine Everly (co-chair) as well as Dr. Katrice Albert '94, Dr. Gilda Barabino '78, the Honorable Alexis Herman '69, Dina Perkins '01, Jada Herbert '22, Dr. Nichole Herbert '86, Dr. Anne McCall, Rhesa McDonald '70, Dr. Gia Soublet '91 and Dr. Karla Vital '95.