A senior majoring in leadership studies and American studies, Hass has spent much of her time on campus learning about the impact of philanthropy.  She participated in the Junior Legacy Fellows program, which introduces students to the role of giving in higher education. What began partly as a resume builder quickly became something more. Through the program, Hass connected with the Office of Annual Giving, where she now works as a development intern and helps lead the Senior Legacy Campaign.

Rather than pooling funds toward a single project, the campaign encourages seniors to give $5 or more to any campus area that shaped their experience — from scholarships and academic departments to club sports, museums, or the University’s annual fund.

“Every gift is a vote of confidence,” said Hass. “It’s saying, ‘This mattered to me, and I want it to matter to someone else.’”

She has directed her own giving to causes close to her heart, including the University of Richmond Museums, undergraduate financial aid, and the Christopher G. Elvin Jr. Memorial Scholarship, created in memory of a classmate.

What excites her most is helping classmates see themselves as part of Richmond’s future.

“Our class came of age during COVID,” she said. “We know how quickly things can change. We want to leave something behind.”

After graduation, Hass plans to work for several years before pursuing graduate school. Whatever path she chooses, she knows philanthropy will remain part of her life.

“I don’t want to wait until I’m 50 to start giving back,” she said. “If Richmond has invested in me — and it has — then I want to be part of investing in what comes next.”