Why I Give: High Five initiative makes giving back simple, accessible

Just over six years ago, Brooklyn MacKenzie (ABJ ‘17) was enrolled as a public relations major, learning and building her skill set within the walls of Grady College. Today, the Grady alumna is a senior account supervisor at the New York office of HUNTER, a marketing and public relations firm, where she manages integrated marketing and communications for Tabasco Brand. 

In her young career, MacKenzie has already worked for three public relations agencies, representing a variety of lifestyle, food and beverage clients. For much of her early success, MacKenzie gives credit to the lessons she learned, people she met and opportunities she had during her time at 120 Hooper St. These are the reasons she gives back. 

“There were numerous alumni who were generous with their time, advice and financial support of the school while I was a student, so I want to help continue that generosity and pass these benefits onto the next generation of Grady students,” said MacKenzie. “It’s important to me to ensure that today’s Grady students are set up for success in the same ways that I was.”

MacKenzie gives to Grady College through High Five, the College’s inaugural recurring gift campaign targeting young alumni. With High Five, donors can choose to support any area of the College with recurring gifts of just $5 a month or $60 a year. Some of the funds that donors can opt to support include the Dean’s Excellence Fund, AdPR Excellence Fund, EMST Excellence Fund, Journalism Excellence Fund, New Media Institute or Carmical Sports Media Institute. 

Every dollar donated through High Five goes towards removing financial barriers to extracurricular learning, supporting experiential learning through internships and professional development, strengthening the student experience by enabling access to advanced technology and equipment, expanding student programing and more. 

“My time at Grady College prepared me for my career in so many ways,” said MacKenzie. “The tactical skills learned in the classroom, like writing and AP style come in handy on a daily basis while the networking opportunities provided at Grady taught me the interpersonal communication skills that are essential in developing and maintaining strong client relationships.”

Those interested can learn more and sign up for recurring donations on the High Five webpage. Even a small investment can make a PAWSitive impact. Join other alumni and friends of the College today in supporting initiatives that drive Grady’s commitment to students and the industry.