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by Meredith Cope-Levy ’12, M.F.A. ’18

Donor Spotlight: Madeline Evangelista ’21

Madeline Evangelista ’21 earned her B.A.in business with a concentration in finance and a minor in economics in just three years. While at Hollins, she was a varsity swimmer, career connector with the Center for Career and Life Design, and a work-study employee in the International Programs office. But her most transformative experience? Studying abroad in Japan.

In spring 2020, Evangelista arrived at Kansai Gaidai University expecting to stay for one semester. The Covid-19 pandemic changed those plans, and she remained through the fall; one of just nine international students, and the only one still sponsored by her home institution. Immersed in Japanese culture, she took private ceramics lessons, integrated into native classrooms, and formed close friendships with local students that continue today. Through travel with these friends, she explored the Kansai region, visiting her friends’ “hometowns [or] smaller temples and shrines that I wouldn’t necessarily have found.”

Without a doubt, her study abroad experience launched her career at Norinchukin Bank, a century-old Japanese institution supporting agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. She joined the bank in August 2022 after being headhunted for her business degree and extensive experience with Japanese culture. In July 2024, she was promoted to internal audit officer. Today, she’s eyeing graduate school — either in the U.S. or abroad — backed by the confidence and communication skills she honed at Hollins.

From Scholar to Proud Donor

Madeline began giving back as a first-year student, with Day of Giving gifts of just $5 or $10, knowing her own scholarship support made Hollins possible. Now a proud member of the Marian Wolff Young Society, she’s given more than $500, with recent gifts supporting study abroad.

“[Hollins] is a very special place, and I want more people to be able to experience that,” she says.

She understands how small costs, like books or visa application fees, can add up and wants to help students access enriching experiences like hers.

“I want to help the next generation of young women become thoughtful leaders, [to] give them as many opportunities as possible, and to help them believe they can achieve anything they put their mind to.”

Because of Evangelista’s steady and dedicated support, more students will get to write their own global stories — just like she did.

Inspired by Madeline’s journey? She’s opening doors for the next generation of Hollins leaders — one gift at a time. You can, too. Whether it’s $5 or $500, your gift empowers students to explore, grow, and lead. Make your impact today.

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