Why We Support Dean

There are many reasons people choose to support Dean College, and just as many ways to make a difference. For alumni, parents, faculty, staff, friends, and community partners, that support often begins with a personal connection, a meaningful experience, or a desire to help future generations of students succeed. Whether through financial gifts, volunteering, sharing professional expertise, or giving their time and talents, each person has a story behind why they give back.

A Lasting Connection: Why One Dean Parent Continues to Give Back

For Sean Cleary P'25, watching his son Colin grow and thrive during his four years at Dean College left a lasting impression. And while his son has since graduated, Sean's connection to Dean remains strong.

“My son had such an amazing experience during his four years at Dean, and I was so appreciative of the care and support he received,” Sean shared. “The college will always hold a very special place in our family, and I wanted to continue to support the school in the hopes that future generations of Bulldogs would have a similar experience.”

Two areas have been especially meaningful to Sean: the Arch Learning Community and Dean's athletic programs. He credits Arch with providing a strong foundation for his son's academic and social growth and values the opportunities and life lessons that come from participating in athletics.

Through his experiences volunteering at Dean, Sean also saw firsthand how financial support could enhance the student experience and help the College continue to grow.

“As a small school, resources are often stretched across multiple areas,” he explained. “All gifts at Dean are treated specially because the school truly values everyone's generosity.”

For Sean, making a gift is a meaningful way to show his appreciation for what Dean has meant to his family while helping provide opportunities for future students. He hopes other Dean parents will consider continuing their connection to the College, whether through financial support, volunteering, attending events, or introducing local businesses to Dean.

His message to fellow parents is simple: “I would encourage all parents to support the school in whatever they can.”

For the Cleary family, Dean will always be a special place. Through his continued generosity and involvement, Sean is helping make that same experience possible for future generations of Bulldogs.