Carl and Carolyn Bennett P’21 are thoroughly engaged in New York’s financial industry; Carl is President and CFO of Cougar Capital, LLC, while Carolyn is a self-employed tax accountant. So it’s particularly gratifying when their son Daniel Bennett ‘21 calls home to discuss a financial topic or ask a probing question. “We planted the seed,” says Carl proudly. “But it has really taken root at Bryant.”
Daniel is majoring in Accounting and Finance, with a minor in Applied Analytics, and is pleased to be back on campus this month with his friends, notes Carolyn. Both parents agree that they saw first-hand how thoroughly Bryant engaged the students when campus closed in March during the initial COVID-19 crisis.
“We were impressed by how much time Dan spent either in a class or studying during that time” adds Carl. “The faculty didn’t miss a beat.”
Parents Council members are engaged in important ways well beyond philanthropic support.
And now that campus has reopened, the pair say they’ve been comforted by the extensive measures Bryant has taken to keep everyone on campus as safe as possible, and the steady stream of communication to keep members of the community informed and engaged.
“We have been on the online meetings with President Gittell and we do feel comfortable that Bryant has the reopening process as under control as possible – fingers crossed. It’s really up to the students to follow the protocols to the letter,” Carl adds.
Embracing the role of ambassador
As Co-chairs of the Bryant Parents Council, the Bennetts have embraced their role as University “ambassadors,” helping to spread the word about the value of a Bryant education.
In addition, their generous gifts have supported Bloomberg Terminals, the Archway Fund, the Amica Center for Career Education, and the Academic Center for Excellence – innovative tools and services that Daniel has used to enhance his education.
“Each parent’s area of interest may be different,” Carl notes. “But ultimately every gift benefits the entire University.”
“Parents Council members are engaged in important ways well beyond philanthropic support,” adds Carl. Pre-COVID, the Bennetts hosted welcome events for first-year students and attended special events and regional receptions like the Wall Street Council with University leaders, alumni, and parents. Even in this virtual environment, Parents Council members are opening doors to jobs and internships and members eagerly connect with parents of accepted students to share perspectives.
The Bennetts also spread the word about Bryant in their business circles whenever the topic of children and colleges comes up. Carl notes that alumni engagement in New York is strong, but believes that the Bryant brand will always benefit from the positive input of parents.
Both agree that co-chairing the Parents Council is a welcome experience. “We’re proud to be chosen, and champion the University at every opportunity we can.”
If you would like more information about Bryant’s Parents Council and ways to get involved, visit alumni.bryant.edu/parents
