Missy Lee Roberts ’85

A Legacy of Lifelong Support

For Missy Lee Roberts, Hollins was more than just a college; it was a community that shaped her life. From the moment she stepped onto campus as a high school student, she knew she had found her home. A Hollins Scholar, she embraced every opportunity available. She studied abroad in London, completed two internships, served as a class officer, and worked in the Admission Office as part of her work-study job. These experiences were transformative, but it was during her senior year phonathon that she began to grasp the true power of the Hollins community.

“I learned the value of alumnae giving,” Missy recalls. “That lesson resonated with me, and I’ve given my time and treasure to Hollins ever since.”

Her career began with a J-Term internship at a local bank, which led to a role as a management associate upon graduation. While working as a commercial banker, Missy’s involvement with college presidents through the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges deepened her understanding of philanthropy’s importance. This ultimately brought her back to Hollins as part of the Annual Fund team during the $40 million campaign for the Wyndham Robertson Library.

Now Missy gives back to ensure future students have the same opportunities she did. From rocking chairs on Main to Tinker Day and 100th Night, she cherishes the traditions that make Hollins unique. “Today’s students love Hollins just as much as I do,” she says. “That’s why it’s so important to give—even a small amount—every year. Participation matters.”

Missy holds close the words of her friend Sarah Holland ’64: “Give until you are proud.” Through her generosity, she ensures Hollins remains a place where generations of women can learn, grow, and thrive.

Lindsey Mann Field ’03

Investing in the Future, One Month at a Time

Lindsey Mann Field’s journey at Hollins shaped not only her personal and professional life but also her lifelong commitment to giving back. A new member of the 1842 Society, Lindsey makes her contributions through recurring monthly gifts—a practice she finds both manageable and deeply rewarding.

“Hollins has always been a supportive and empowering community,” Lindsey says. “I give because of the amazing education I received, the deep friendships I made, and the
personal growth I experienced. By giving back, I help Hollins keep doing what it does best—empowering women.”

Lindsey’s professional path began with a J-term internship in the Advancement Office at St. Alban’s School in Washington, D.C. during her senior year. This opportunity, combined with her work on the Senior Class Gift campaign, introduced her
to the world of fundraising and set her on a career trajectory in educational advancement. Today, she’s a consultant in the field, helping organizations achieve their philanthropic goals.

When asked about her favorite Hollins memories, Lindsey is quick to point out the importance of significant traditions like Tinker Day and Ring Night as well as the quieter, everyday moments on campus. “I loved the day-to-day life at Hollins—learning, laughing, and growing alongside my classmates in a very special place.”

For Lindsey, giving is about ensuring future students can experience the magic of Hollins. “It’s not just about giving back—it’s about investing in the next generation of Hollins women,” she explains. “Recurring gifts make it easy to maintain a leadership-level contribution. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.”

Sarah Himes ’23

A Young Alumna with Big Aspirations

As a recent graduate, Sarah Himes understands the transformative power of a Hollins education firsthand. Her years at Hollins were filled with academic challenges, leadership opportunities, and moments of personal growth, all supported by the generosity of the Hollins community.

“The support I received during the pandemic was extraordinary,” Sarah shares. “It allowed me to persevere, earn a double major, and gain countless transformative experiences both in and out of the classroom.” For Sarah, one of the most meaningful aspects of her time at Hollins was riding with the International Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team, an experience she describes as joyful and grounding.

Sarah’s passion for philanthropy began as a student when she witnessed the impact of an anonymous $75 million gift to Hollins. Since then, she has pursued a career that blends her Hollins education with her commitment to leadership and service. “My Hollins experiences inspired me,” she says. “From participating in student panels to volunteering as a Day of Giving Ambassador, I’ve learned how much difference a single act of generosity can make.”

Sarah hopes Hollins will continue to offer a distinctive and exceptional liberal arts education, empowering future generations of women to lead and make meaningful contributions to the world. Her message to her peers is clear: “Reflect on your Hollins experience. Giving back can take many forms—volunteering, connecting, or spreading the word about the value of a Hollins education. Every act of generosity matters, no matter the size.”