Alexa Zacek
For Alexa Zacek, Annual Giving coordinator, building a culture of giving is all about empowering students to see their own impact.
From her start as a Phonathon student caller in 2018 to leading the Student Giving Committee, she shows Crimson Hawks how even small gifts transform campus life. Passionate about watching students grow into generous, compassionate leaders, Zacek finds joy in guiding them on a journey that could take them anywhere.
Learn more about her in this Faces of IUP feature.
In a nutshell, what is your role in serving students at IUP?
I’m the Annual Giving coordinator, and my role centers on helping students understand just how much power they have to make a difference on our campus.
I work to foster a culture of philanthropy by creating fun, meaningful opportunities for students to get involved in giving and by collaborating with the Student Giving Committee. A big part of what I do is educating students about how donor support directly impacts their academic and campus experience and showing them that every act of generosity—no matter the size—creates real change for their peers.
For you, what’s the most rewarding part of working with students?
Seeing them grow into kind, generous, and altruistic individuals. I get to be a part of that process, and being able to support and guide students along the way, in any way I can, is incredibly rewarding.
What advice would you give students about how to succeed in college?
Navigating this part of your life can be challenging, so be kind to yourself and make space for self-care when things feel heavy. Taking a moment to pause, recharge, and do something that makes you feel good can help you come back to your work feeling refreshed.
Tell us something most people may not know about you.
I am extremely sentimental and keep cards, notes, tickets, and other little items from important moments in my life. I have a box dedicated to these memories, and I’ve had it since I was five years old. People come into our lives for a reason, and these items are a reminder of those who have been with me every step of the way.