Donor proud of her affiliation with Western
Linda Shapiro, BA'81
As an alumna, retired employee, parent of an alumna, and a donor, Linda Shapiro has supported Western on an annual basis for more than three decades.
"Western has been an integral part of my life. I give back because I care about Western and am proud of its accomplishments locally and on the international stage."
Shapiro, BA'81, started working in Western Libraries in 1978 at the age of 23. She completed the final credits of her degree, which she had started a few years earlier, with the support of the Western Educational Assistance Plan. In 1980, she decided to start giving back in a small way.
Her gifts have varied, supporting many areas including The Western Fund, the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, The Parents' Fund and Western Libraries.
"Fortunately, my financial status improved over the years and therefore I was able to continue my support," notes the Metadata Specialist (formerly known as a Cataloguer) who retired in June 2011.
"As a Western Libraries employee, I was immersed in the Western environment for 33 years, experiencing many opportunities for personal growth. I was so fortunate to be a part of a culture of respect, kindness and support."
Shapiro has fond memories, as a student and employee, of tobogganing on University College hill, taking in Western Films, enjoying sporting events, and walking around the beautiful campus. She says she has always felt a sense of loyalty to the University.
Shapiro and her husband have instilled in their daughter Jennie, who earned a Nursing degree at Western, the importance of donating, and now Jennie also supports Western. "Giving is part of our family; it's what we feel we have to do."
"Regardless of the amount, donors contribute to helping students fulfill their potential and aiding Western's research mission. I'm so proud to be making that kind of a difference."
