Jonathan Adkins '96
DONOR Q&A
Tell us about your Dickinson experience.
I have so many amazing and inspiring memories from my time at Dickinson—far too many to recount here. Some of my best memories came from volunteer experiences I had on campus, including being an RA, chairing the Public Affairs Symposium, co-organizing the Metzger-Conway Series and other opportunities. Each of these opportunities gave me the chance to work with my classmates, Dickinson’s professional staff and so many interesting alumni, and I loved and cherished those experiences.
“We must stand up for the importance of higher education and remind the doubters of its value.” —Jonathan Adkins '96
How has Dickinson’s useful liberal-arts education helped you?
Rather than cultivating deep expertise in a single topic, I know how to do many things well. I’m also able to think constructively and creatively; navigate challenging environments; and bring together people
with diverse viewpoints to find compromise. These are all skills that I learned and nurtured at Dickinson, both in the classroom and through leadership efforts such as the Public Affairs Symposium.
How have you volunteered for the college in the years since you graduated?
Most recently, I’ve helped lead the organization of a Dickinson LGTBQ+ Alumni Network in D.C., which has been very fulfilling. It’s important that everyone—no matter their sexuality, race or nationality—feel welcomed and accepted. I’m glad to be able to help others feel the natural sense of acceptance that we all deserve.
What inspired your gift to Dickinson?
I think so fondly of my time as a Dickinson student and of the unique experiences I had, and I want others to have similar opportunities. As those before me have said, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” I see it as a duty to give back and help others.
I’m proud to support Dickinson, and I hope that others are able to grow and develop, both personally and professionally, and make lifelong friends during their time on campus.
Why is it important to you to give back to the college?
This is a critical time in our country, especially in higher education. The value of a liberal-arts degree—and of the skills you learn to earn—it has never been higher. Despite this, education is under attack on many different fronts. We cannot allow education to be politicized or devalued. We must stand up for the importance of higher education and remind the doubters of its value to our country.
“It’s important that everyone—no matter their sexuality, race or nationality—feel welcomed and accepted. I’m glad to be able to help others feel the natural sense of acceptance that we all deserve.” —Jonathan Adkins ’96
What advice would give to today’s students?
Everything’s going to be OK! It can be stressful, juggling the many demands of college while planning for your career. Take time to enjoy the moment you’re in and the people you’re with. And in tough times, use your resources at Dickinson. Reach out to alumni and friends of the college for inspiration and support. Never be afraid to ask for help. We’re here for you!
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Published February 14, 2024