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Luke Smith ’11

Member of the Cornerstone Society and proud alum

Profile

Please describe your connection to Moravian.

I am a 2011 graduate of Moravian University, where I majored in business management and played on the golf team for four years. After a short stint in banking, I found my way back as an employee of Moravian in the Office of Development & Alumni Engagement, where I had the privilege of serving my alma mater for nearly ten years.

Who at Moravian most influenced you and how?

One professor comes to mind: Dr. Kelly Denton-Borhaug. I ended up minoring in religion while at Moravian, and it was largely due to her influence and her classes. She challenged us to think critically and write clearly. I cannot stress how my competence and confidence as a writer grew in her classes. In my mind, I still think I am searching for that elusive “A” on one of her papers! I carry her lessons with me to this day, as being a clear and effective communicator in non-profit fundraising work is critical.

Share your favorite memory from Moravian.

No one memory springs to mind, but rather three friends, Robbie, Derek, and Jeff. We all lived together during freshman year in the Rau dorm. Well, Jeff didn’t technically, but he certainly spent more time there than most residents! The memories created together at Moravian cemented lifelong friendships that I know we all truly cherish. 

Although we do not get together as often as we would like to today, we still text nearly every day in our group chat. If you see us on the golf course at a Moravian-sponsored outing, it’s probably best to maintain a safe distance! 

There are many ways to support Moravian philanthropically. Through which giving method do you support Moravian and why? 

Primarily, I choose to give to Moravian through gifts of stock. It’s something I have started to do to help avoid some of the capital gains tax associated with appreciated stock and support the things I love at Moravian in a more impactful way than I could before.

Why did you become a Cornerstone Society member?

Well, the short answer is if you’re going to talk about it, be about it! When I worked in the Development office at Moravian, managing the Cornerstone Society was one of my responsibilities, so when asking folks to consider supporting Moravian in such a meaningful way, it felt right to come from a place of having already made the decision myself. Moravian gave me so much as a young person, both as a student and a professional; this eventual gift is my way of hopefully paving a similar path for a future student.

Why is it important for you to give to your alma mater?

When I was applying to college, my mom told me something I’ll never forget—she said, “Work hard now, so you have options later.” At the time, it sounded simple, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how much wisdom was packed into that advice. I was fortunate. I had options. I got to choose a place like Moravian, where I found a community that challenged me, supported me, and helped me grow into who I am today. But I also know there are plenty of students out there who work just as hard, sometimes harder, and don’t have the same opportunities I did.

That’s why I give back to Moravian. I hope that my gift helps open doors for those students, the ones who have the drive, determination, and heart, but maybe not the same access or means. Everyone willing to put in the work deserves the chance at a quality education. If my support can help make that possible for even one student, then I’m proud to be part of that legacy.

I am passionate about supporting Moravian because…

I’m passionate about supporting Moravian because my wife and I both grew up watching our parents give back. They showed us that generosity isn’t about recognition; it’s about the joy of helping others and investing in things that matter.

For me, Moravian is one of those things. It’s a place that shaped me, and I want others to witness that growth for themselves. 

What are you most excited to see Moravian make possible for its students?

What excites me most about Moravian’s future is seeing students take full advantage of all the opportunities offered. There’s so much: study abroad, athletics, clubs, and organizations for every interest. As someone who once chose golf over studying abroad, my advice is simple: go! Try new things, explore, and find your tribe. 

Moravian has always been a place where professors know you by name and genuinely care about your success. I am excited to see it continue to be the kind of community that challenges students, supports them, and helps them discover who they want to be.