Nadene and Marvin and Steinert, Linda Calandra and Wells Fargo were among those honored at a luncheon sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals California Valley Chapter at University Square Hotel, Fresno. All were nominated by Charity Brown, director of alumni and church relations.
The Steinerts—Outstanding Philanthropists
The Steinerts, of Bakersfield, have been among the university's greatest supporters for more than 30 years and have been involved in the Steinert Athletic Complex, Steinert Campus Center, scholarships and many other projects. Marvin has also been a member of the FPU Board of Trustees. Sons Max, Randy and Gary all attended Fresno Pacific, as have several grandchildren. The couple has also supported many ventures in Kern County. (Pictured with FPU President D. Merrill Ewert, center)
Linda Calandra—Outstanding Fundraising Professional
A former member of the Advancement Office, Calandra is now development officer at the Fresno County Public Library. Her many community roles have included Fresno City Council member, public affairs coordinator of the Downtown Association of Fresno and member of the Leadership Fresno Steering Committee. (Pictured at lectern.)
Wells Fargo—Outstanding Philanthropic Organization, Corporation, Local and National
Wells Fargo has sponsored the FPU Business Forum since 2004 and, in 2009, its foundation gave a grant to expand the master's degree in mathematics education. Beyond that, Wells Fargo is one of America's largest donors to nonprofits, contributing $219 million in 2010, with $3.4 million distributed throughout Central California. That same year the company's 2,500 Central California employees volunteered 19,054 hours of service. Michael Stain (BA '80) represented Wells Fargo at the luncheon.
AFP's Central Valley Chapter has served fundraising professionals since 1987. Activities, including monthly workshops, are open to AFP members and others involved in fundraising for non-profit organizations, including board members and other volunteers.
The chapter has more than 90 members and covers Kern, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera, Mariposa and Merced counties.