Cultivating the Future, Together: Introducing HIVE at PLU
By MacKenzie Hines
Director of Strategic Initiatives
In nature, the bee serves as a powerful symbol of diligent, purpose driven action, reminding us that while individual paths are distinct, our shared efforts create undeniable momentum. This spirit of collective impact defines HIVE, PLU’s new initiative designed to unite women in building an enduring legacy of growth.
Standing for Honor, Invest, Volunteer, Empower, HIVE is an intergenerational network dedicated to amplifying the leadership and philanthropic impact of all who identify as women.
Women have shaped PLU from the beginning. In the 1890s, PLU’s first two graduates were women; today, women make up the majority of PLU’s student body and more than half of university leadership.
Join the HIVE
Are you interested in learning more about HIVE and becoming part of this collective calling? Whether you want to share your professional expertise, mentor current students, network with fellow alumnae, or invest in the future of PLU, there is a place for you in HIVE. Visit plu.edu/hive
Money and Mimosas, Oct. 10 during Homecoming weekend!
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We believe that abundance — in regard to any of our efforts or initiative — comes from the contributions of the collective. the time and gifts of us all lead to bigger (and) better anything.
From early faculty to visionary philanthropists like Lora Kreidler, Karen Hille Phillips, and Mary Baker Russell, whose names grace campus landmarks, women have always been a part of the PLU tapestry. Yet, historic narratives have often looked elsewhere. HIVE changes that, shifting the focus to actively amplify and design a more inclusive future.
Globally, the landscape of giving is transforming as philanthropy moves away from transactional models toward a philosophy of deep personal connection, holistic stewardship, and sustainable generosity.
HIVE meets this cultural momentum head-on, recognizing that a woman’s capacity to give naturally evolves with her seasons of life, whether through professional expertise, mentorship, or financial investment.
Shifting wealth,
shifting impact
More than 85% of family philanthropic decisions are now influenced by women.
85%
Women currently control 1/3 assets – an estimated $10 trillion. –Stanford Social Innovation Review
1/3
Evolution of HIVE
2020 | The Groundwork
As the world emerged from the pandemic, PLU senior gift officers Lauralee Hagen ’75 and Sue Loiland ’12 set out to challenge a systemic, male-centric bias in traditional fundraising. Driven by a desire for authentic connection, their vision coalesced when PLU Regent Jaynee Groseth gifted them the book “Gender Matters: A Guide to Growing Women’s Philanthropy.”
2021 | Widening the Circle
The initial reading sparked a formal, deeper study. A diverse, 25-person task force composed of alumni, parents, and friends united to analyze shifting philanthropic trends and apply author Kathleen Loehr’s findings to the PLU community. Embracing pandemic-driven digital shifts, the group launched nationwide online platforms to gather widespread insights.
2023–2025 | A Collective Vision
Synthesizing years of task force research, surveys, and focus groups, organizers established the official foundation for HIVE. The resulting collective vision redefined PLU’s approach to philanthropy through four core pillars:
• Enhanced engagement tailored to diverse donors.
• Prominent storytelling that highlights community impact.
• Dedicated staffing to ensure sustainable growth.
• Innovative, flexible giving models built for modern philanthropists.
Leading the Way
Guiding this vision is the founding HIVE Executive Committee, a group of leaders representing diverse eras of the PLU legacy.
Co-Chairs: Deb Erickson ’82 & Sumerlin Larsen-Lesperance ’01
Committee Members: Bobbi Hughes ’00, Melinda Belton ’91, Sara Miura ’03, and Jaynee Groseth (Former Board of Regents ’16-’25)
Staff Representatives: Lauralee Hagen ’75, Sue Loiland ’12, Katie Hoover ’10, MacKenzie Hines