Landmark Summer 2020

38 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2020 d onor i mpaCt r eport Tom Riley ’56 and Barbara Kelley have been faithful donors to Aquinas’ annual fund for decades, so when the couple was asked to make a three-year pledge commitment and become members of Aquinas’ Trinity Society, there really was no question. “A private institution like Aquinas depends on its graduates to play a role in the perpetuation of its mission,” said Tom. “When you make a pledge to Aquinas, or in the case of the Trinity Society, a fixed amount commitment, it speaks to the issue of perpetuity.” This is something the Riley family knows plenty about with an Aquinas legacy that dates back five generations. Tom’s father graduated with the Class of 1926 and was the first of the family to attend. Tom and his brothers, Greg, Mike and David followed, as did several other members of the family including their great grandson Judah, who will begin his sophomore year this fall. Trinity Society gifts are meaningful because they represent a significant investment in our ability to shape our future leaders, which Tom and Barbara feel strongly about. Both had successful careers in major corporate leadership roles, Tom at Rochester Telephone and Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Barbara was vice president of communications and investor relations at Bausch & Lomb. Together, they have also shared their time and expertise serving on various Community Boards consistent with their philanthropic values. “Barbara and I approach philanthropy not as just a financial investment, but as a commitment to perpetuate and enhance our community’s quality of life. That’s important when our names are associated with a legacy,” said Tom. “Aquinas is a well- rounded academic institution that supports many areas of our interests including developing leadership, the arts, and athletics.” Knowing that their multi-year gift commitment directly impacts the students of Aquinas and positions them to excel in all facets of life, Tom and Barbara encourage other alumni to consider giving in this way. In addition, Tom, his brothers and their families joined together to make a single major named gift to Aquinas. However, Tom added, “that the Trinity Society remains the best vehicle to demonstrate our family’s ongoing commitment to Aquinas and its future.” Trinity Society Member Feature L-R: Barbara Kelley, great grandson Judah ‘23 and Tom Riley ‘56 at Aquinas Grandparents Day.