The Faces of Impact: Choctaw Ambassadors Connecting Donors to Purpose
The Choctaw Ambassadors program at MC highlights student leadership, hospitality, and stewardship by connecting donors to the impact of their generosity.
At MC, the Choctaw Ambassadors program stands as a meaningful expression of student leadership, hospitality, and stewardship-serving as a vital bridge between campus life and the generosity of donors who make that experience possible.
These students are often the first and most memorable faces our supporters encounter when visiting campus. Whether welcoming guests, assisting with events, or sharing their personal stories, Choctaw Ambassadors offer more than just guidance; they provide a genuine connection to the mission of MC. Their presence allows donors to see firsthand the impact of their giving, not just in programs and facilities, but in the lives of students being shaped for the future.
What makes the program especially significant is the way it forms students into both leaders and stewards. Ambassadors grow in confidence, professionalism, and purpose, while gaining a deeper understanding of the role generosity plays in their own journeys. That awareness is evident in the enthusiasm and gratitude they bring to every donor interaction.
The Choctaw Ambassadors program is co-sponsored by Mandy Martin, Assistant Director of Alumni and Family Engagement, and Tresa Bruce, Director of Donor Relations, whose leadership helps guide the vision and impact of the initiative. Their support ensures students are equipped, encouraged, and empowered to represent MC with excellence.
As Tresa Bruce shares, “Being an Ambassador is more than a role-it’s a responsibility to reflect the heart of MC. These students are not only welcoming guests, they are living out what it means to serve with gratitude, integrity, and purpose. It is a privilege to watch them grow into leaders who understand the value of connection and generosity.”
On April 27th, the MC Foundation hosted a special ice cream social to celebrate and send off graduating Choctaw Ambassadors. The event reflected the heart of the program-honoring service, celebrating impact, and looking ahead with anticipation.
Graduating seniors were recognized for their dedication and presented with meaningful gifts, including handcrafted leather journal covers from Dr. Jim Turcotte, Vice President and Special Assistant to the President for the Bicentennial. Each senior also received ambassador graduation cords, symbolizing their commitment and the relationships they have helped cultivate between students, alumni, and donors.
The celebration also marked a new beginning, as incoming Ambassadors were welcomed and introduced. This passing of the torch highlighted the strength and continuity of the program, one group finishing well while another steps forward ready to serve with excellence.
Senior MC Ambassador Charlie Hight reflected on the growth and impact of the program, sharing:
"As I was sitting at the ice cream social, I couldn’t help but smile and think about how the Ambassador program has grown over my college career. I was a part of the first interviewing class of Choctaw Ambassadors, and at that time we really did not know what the program would become. We were excited for a unique opportunity to get to know our donors and alumni, and to thank all the people who have so kindly supported us throughout college. Being at the social, seeing the chairs full of MC’s best eagerly awaiting a chance to represent the student body, was an incredible full circle moment. I’m extremely grateful for my time as a Choctaw Ambassador, and I know the program is in great hands going forward.”
For our donors, the Choctaw Ambassadors are a living testament to the power of your generosity. They are not only beneficiaries of your investment, but active participants in stewarding it-ensuring that every visit, every interaction, and every moment on campus reflects sincere gratitude and a shared commitment to something greater.
