James Madison's Montpelier We The People Spring 2014 | Page 18

WE THE PEOPLE SPIRIT OF PHILANTHROPY DONOR TRIBUTE: LOU & AL POTTER I magine it’s 1985 and Montpelier has just become a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. What do you do? Well, if you are Louise and Alan Potter, you jump in to help. The Potters are among Montpelier’s longest and most generous supporters. As entrepreneurs dedicated to architecture, engineering, and building, perhaps it is no surprise that they gravitated to a site that has been completely transformed during the past 20 years, in large part thanks to Lou and Al’s leadership. Lou became a member of the Montpelier Advisory Council, appointed by the National Trust, before becoming a founding director of The Montpelier Foundation board when it was established in 1998. The Potters were instrumental during Montpelier’s American Legacy Campaign (2002-2008), providing not only leadership support as campaign benefactors, but also as key members of Montpelier’s Development Committee, which led the $65 million fundraising effort, and members of the Site Committee that oversaw the construction of Montpelier’s Visitor Center and entrance. The Louise B. and Alan L. Potter Theater located in the Visitor Center is a fitting reminder of their tireless dedication and lasting generosity. On January 31, 2014, Al Potter passed away. While his presence will be missed, the enthusiasm encompassed in his spirit and the continued dedication of Lou and the Potter family will continue to guide us. 18 THANK YOU, FRIENDS! From the restoration of Madison’s library, to understanding the Montpelier plantation through archaeology, introducing a first-generation American to the Constitution, or helping Burmese leaders chart the future of their country, your support has made a tremendous difference and created a lasting impact for current and future generations. In 2013, gifts to Montpelier totaled nearly $4.5 million. This generosity makes it possible for children and adults from around the world to experience Montpelier and gain insight into James Madison’s ideas, explore the legacy of the U.S. Constitution, learn more about life in the young American nation, and so much more. A quick glance at this magazine shows just how many people The Montpelier Foundation reaches. Our heartfelt thanks goes to you, and we hope to see you soon (in person or virtually) in the very near future. Sincerely, Kimberly P. Skelly Executive Vice President for Advancement WAYS YOU CAN GIVE TODAY By check: please use the enclosed Business Reply Envelope Online: please visit www.montpelier.org/donate For more information on how to make a gift, please contact Elizabeth Von Hassell, Director of Annual Giving, at 540-661-0259 or email at [email protected]