During law school, Philippa Guthrie and Tony Armstrong worked together on class projects. Now, years later, they are once again joining forces. This time it’s to build a stronger community as United Way IU campaign co-chairs.
As co-chairs, both Tony and Philippa bring a common sense of purpose and energy. They are enjoying interacting with a broad range of people and gaining a deeper knowledge about IU and the larger Bloomington community.
Everyone coming together to make better this place we call home and finding common bonds among fellow citizens is at the heart of Living United for Philippa, Vice President and General Counsel of the Indiana University Foundation. So it’s no surprise she was excited to step into the role of co-chair for the IU fundraising campaign. “All of us who work for and attend Indiana University also live here and are a part of this community. All of us benefit from a United Way agency in some way so we should be giving back to them.”
Being woven into the fabric of the community is a big part of Living United for Tony, President and CEO of the Indiana University Research & Technology Corporation and Associate Vice President in the IU Office of the Vice President for Engagement. He also enjoys helping identify assets on campus and finding the best way to respond to local needs with time, talent, and treasure. “I feel good about giving and feel that I get so much more back. It’s true: the more you give, the more you get back. Being part of the community and being helpful inspire me to do more.
Philippa and Tony’s commitment to United Way is refueled twice a month when they meet with United Way staff, member agencies, and IU campaign leaders. They learn how agencies help the community with funds raised during the annual campaign. Tony was impressed, “It is amazing how large of a reach the United Way campaign has on the community. The money raised during the campaign touches a wide array of people and many community needs.”
Raising greater awareness and greater giving for United Way is their shared mission in their co-chair roles. As long-time donors, Tony and Philippa both agree that as a big player in the local economy it’s important for Indiana University to be supportive of the United Way campaign.
When asked which United Way programs are important to her, Philippa gladly exclaimed “All! Through the networking and consulting that United Way offers, member agencies gain skills and save money so they can better focus on providing services.” Tony commented that it’s important to “help and empower people in need so that everyone can be part of the community.” He is a strong supporter of member agency Stone Belt and recently served on their Board of Directors.
Away from work, Philippa enjoys spending time with her two children and being on the Board of Directors for Centerstone and member agency Volunteers in Medicine. Born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Philippa is a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and finds time for reading, singing, hiking, and skiing.
Keeping up with his three young children, their scouting activities, and their newest addition to the family -- a new puppy -- Tony stays very active. Every year his family enjoys the white sand beaches and collecting shells along the coast of Florida.
A big thanks to both Philippa Guthrie and Tony Armstrong for everything you do to strengthen our community and inspire those around you to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. Thank you for choosing to Live United!
