As a student at Trinity University, Mike Bacon '89, CFRE, learned that he was not afraid to ask people for money. He joined forces with another Trinity grad to form a fund-raising company where he learned the value of cultivating friendships and developing leaders. He brings those talents to Trinity as the vice president for Alumni Relations and Development.
How did you get involved in your area of expertise?
I majored in history at Trinity and loved my professors. My student mentor Brad Montgomery (now a famous magician) encouraged me to volunteer for the Trinity Phonathon and that's what led me to the world of fundraising. I realized I was not afraid to ask for money. People feel good when they give to a cause they love. I am so lucky because I get to help people feel great about Trinity.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Trinity?
I loved being a Trinity student. Working on the Coates Center Program Board and planning fun events on campus was a highlight.
What was your favorite teacher/class at Trinity?
I am not going to take the easy way out and tell you "too many." Gary Kates, Frank Garcia, and another professor team taught "The Human Quest" focusing on the art, music, politics, and even religious beliefs of a period of history. That one class combined everything I loved about liberal arts into one amazing experience.
Describe Trinity in 3-5 words
A community of smart, passionate people.
What advice would you give to a Trinity student?
Spend more time enjoying life here and less time rushing around (with your face in your phone). I regret that I did not slow down my senior year. Now I wish I had spent more time at Tycoon Flats with friends and margaritas and less time in meetings on campus.
Favorite color? Why?
Maroon! It is safe to share that my blood is Trinity maroon.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Architect. I love buildings and design. How could you attend classes in these O'Neil Ford buildings and not fall in love with mid-century architecture?
Who have been some of your mentors?
Marc Raney, Joyce Penland, Russ Gossage... all former development staff at Trinity. Plus, I want to mention Bonnie Flake, who was the Alumni Director, and Pete Neville, the Student Life Director. Former president Dr. Ron Calgaard and Coleen Grissom helped me many times, both in my career and personally.
You left a career in nonprofit consulting to come to Trinity. Anything you miss?
I thoroughly loved working as a consultant and building a company with my former partner, Trinity alumna Marion Lee. I miss the variety of clients and I miss the team I worked with at Bacon Lee. But I am loving building relationships with donors and alumni here at Trinity – lifelong relationships because of a shared love for this place.
Where would you like to retire?
I will always want to be near my sons. My wife Suzie and I both joke about retiring to a house on the Guadalupe River or up in the hills around Vanderpool. Hill Country living!
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