The Giving Box
This profile was first published in SPU's newsletter Significance, a quarterly periodical for University donors and friends.
At 10 years of age, when Tom Box was a fearless young surfer from Redondo Beach, California, he read the story of Meriwether Lewis' and William Clark's expedition. He was hooked.
"I decided I wanted to live in the Pacific Northwest, and that dream never wavered," says Box.
Twelve years later, Box and his new wife, Jannie, took their honeymoon to Washington state — paid for with 500 hard-earned dollars. Visiting Seattle for five days, the young couple agreed it was the place they wanted to live and raise a family "if the Lord would open the door."
Journey Northwest
A fellow graduate from Biola University was at SPU in 1978 and alerted Box to an open position. Box prayed the Lord would open a door to SPU, and the day after the birth of his second child, he interviewed in the Finance Department.
He recounts that first meeting took place in the very same Demaray Hall office where he now works. "My relationship with this place goes back 31 years," say Box, and he has brought his leadership and Falcon spirit to business and planning offices, the Athletics Department, and to the fundraising arm of the University.
Funds and Fun
As the director of development during the '90s, Box worked on raising the funds needed to build the new Library, a $12 million campaign. He then served 10 years as athletic director. "It was a real thrill," he says "to work with incredibly gifted and committed students and coaches."
In 2008, Box was asked to lead the Office of University Advancement as the vice president, supporting President Philip W. Eaton and leading a team that works with donors, who are an integral part of the growth and vision of Seattle Pacific.
Deep Investment
Giving is more than part of the job for Tom Box. He has been a faithful supporter for as many years as he's worked at SPU, even during the lean years when he was raising three young children. He's a member of the new President's Circle and the Wellspring Society.
"I believe in Christian higher education," Box says. "Our faculty members are distinguished academically but also have a deep commitment to mentoring students."
Do you want to support SPU in some way? Contact the Parent Council to discover a mix of opportunities for involvement. Email parents@spu.edu. |