Nearness makes the heart grow fonder.
Bob Tree ’49 lives close enough to Grinnell to be a regular visitor. He became a key volunteer in 2001 and then helped plan the ’47, ’48, ’49 Reunion in summer of 2009. Bob's passion for Grinnell is clear, especially in a room full of Grinnellians. Students regularly have great conversations with him and have nothing but wonderful things to say about him afterward.
The following is an excerpt of a letter he wrote to alumni asking for support for Grinnell.
"If you contributed to the Pioneer Fund in this past year, I thank you as does everyone at the College. A Grinnell education was expensive in the 1940s, as I remember, and it is even more expensive today with its individualized, student-centered approach. Many can pay the bill, but there are other bright young people who need our assistance. This is why the College needs unrestricted operating funds-the Pioneer Fund-so a Grinnell education can be made available to all. Think back to your own time. The College had funds available to assist students then. There was need then, there is need now. I urge you to support the Pioneer Fund to the extent you feel you can."
- Robert Tree ’49
When you get the opportunity to meet Bob, make sure you take advantage of it.
To hear Bob talk about Giving Through Grinnell: http://www.grinnell.edu/car/communication/magazine/extras/whygive/
