Progress Report 2024-2025
The Four Forward initiative stands as a living tribute to the first four women to receive degrees from Denison, transforming their historic milestone into a vibrant community of connection. By bridging our past with our future, this initiative creates dedicated spaces from campus retreats to regional and virtual dialogues – where leadership, resilience, and the shared experiences of Denisonians take center stage. Explore the milestones below to see how your participation and support are shaping an empowered Denison legacy. Since its launch in 2024, the Four Forward initiative has come to include:
ReMix Women
In the inaugural offering, over 70 alums joined current students on The Hill to engage in meaningful conversation, gain practical insight, and achieve the perspective that only comes from stepping away from the everyday and gathering with people who understand where you’ve been and where you want to go. Programming included 32 sessions, covering topics from the future of Artificial Intelligence to creating an impactful personal brand. Alumni Citation recipient Lisa McKnight ’90 gave a feature presentation and follow-up dialogue on Out of the box: The Playbook that’s transforming Barbie and redefining play. Guests left feeling empowered and inspired to bring meaningful insights back to their communities.
To the Women Who Lift Us
This event served as a cornerstone of our Reunion Weekend, offering a powerful experience of gratitude that celebrated the generations of Denison women who have influenced and inspired our community. Through shared stories and collective toasts, around 50 attendees gathered to create deep reflection and intergenerational connection. The impact extended far beyond the room, as over 60 handwritten notes of appreciation were penned and mailed to mentors and peers, ensuring that the legacy of those who lift us continues to resonate beyond The Hill.
Share, Lift, Lead
Starting in April of 2025, this series has served as a platform for connection, bringing together 83 participants from across the globe. Each session featured an alum presentation that set the stage for intimate, small-group dialogues where voices were lifted and stories were shared across generations. Topics ranged from breaking barriers in banking to helping a grieving friend. By bridging the distance between us, these one-hour sessions empowered Denisonians to translate personal narratives into collective leadership and action.
Beyond the Book
This group transcended the traditional book club format, serving as a dedicated space where 60 alums explored powerful narratives and diverse perspectives rooted in the shared experiences of women. Through facilitated small-group discussions, participants delved into themes of resilience and identity, transforming shared reading into a deep communal connection. This program proved that our stories are the strongest threads binding Denisonians together, regardless of distance.
A Seat at the Table
This experience brought the spirit of Four Forward directly to alums in their own city through an intimate, industry-based dinner gathering. We facilitated high-level dialogue around leadership and career navigation. As this series continues, these curated evenings will spark professional growth and personal mentorship, supporting Denisonians at each stage of their professional journey.
The Four Forward Scholarship recipients thank you!
The Four Forward Scholarship Fund was established as a way for those inspired by the initiative to come together in collective support of Denison students. This year, we were proud to award our first two scholarships through this fund while also celebrating the individual scholarships established by donors moved by the spirit of Four Forward. The messages below from our scholarship recipients offer a glimpse into the impact of this generosity.
Lauren Paxton ’27
Major: Communication
Hometown: Canonsburg, Penn.
“Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to come to Denison! Without this scholarship, my experience at Denison would not be possible. Because of you, I am able to succeed and get an education that will be beneficial for my future. I am so excited to use all the skills and knowledge that I have learned from Denison to create a prosperous life for myself. I am forever grateful for people like you who have given me an education and skills that I will continue to use for the rest of my life.”
Tionna Wear ’28
Major: Theatre and Economics
Hometown: Wichita, Kansas
“Denison University was my number one choice when I applied for college. I have loved every moment I have had with the arts department here at Denison, and I hope you know your support has been life-changing for me. I’ve had the opportunity to work on tech as the assistant stage manager in two shows and perform in another one as an ensemble cast member.”
Save These Dates:
Beyond the Book: Secret Agent Man (Hosted by First Lady Anne Weinberg)
Thursday, April 23 | 6 – 7 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
Share, Lift, Lead: Why Wellness & Well-Being is Important
Wednesday, May 6 | 6 – 7 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
To the Women Who Lift Us (Hosted by First Lady Anne Weinberg)
Saturday, June 13 | 9:15 – 10 a.m. (as part of Reunion)
Register for Reunion
Beyond the Book: The Measure
Tuesday, July 14 | 6 – 7 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
Share, Lift, Lead: The Bourbon Blueprint
Wednesday, September 9 | 7 – 8 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
Beyond the Book: Atmosphere
Thursday, Oct. 8 | 6 – 7 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
Share, Lift, Lead: How Motherhood Can Drive Entrepreneurial Passion
Thursday, November 12 | 7 – 8 p.m. ET
Coming Soon
Beyond the Book: The Art of Gathering
Tuesday, Dec. 1 | 6 – 7 p.m. ET
Reserve your spot
Want to stay in the know and shape future programming? Contact Hallie Gutridge, assistant director of experiences.
Have Questions?
