For the Moyer family, giving is not just a season that comes with decorated trees and wrapped gifts, but rather a lifestyle of dedicating time, talent, and treasure to Penn State.
The family’s story begins with J. Roger Moyer, who earned a degree in finance from the Smeal College of Business while completing the University’s Air Force ROTC program. On the day of his graduation in 1970, Roger was commissioned second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.
“Other than my parents, church and Boy Scouts, there was no other organization or person at that point (I wasn’t married), that had more impact on my life than Penn State,” Roger said. “I had no leadership experience other than what I learned at Air Force ROTC—it was the best leadership training of my life, and that’s part of the Penn State package.”
After two years as a squadron commander and executive officer in the Air Force, Roger shifted his priorities to advancing his career in the banking industry and growing his family with wife, Grace, and daughters, Jennifer and Elizabeth.
Growing up, the act of giving back became second nature to Jennifer and Elizabeth—whether it be supporting their father’s efforts as board chair at the Red Cross or Youth Council or doing community service of their own, which has continued into adulthood.
“Our daughters saw the joy of giving early,” Roger said. “When it comes to volunteering, if it is worth your time and emotions, many times it is also worth your dollars.”
Jennifer distinctly recalls one weekend trip with her family when she was in middle school to attend a Penn State Gymnastics meet.
“We stumbled upon THON in the White Building, and I thought it was really cool. Fast forward a few years: I was the THON co-chair for my sorority, and I was able to dance in THON in 1994,” Jennifer said. “Getting to return to THON in 2014 and see what it has become, with 16,500+ students who are excited about raising money and volunteering, was amazing.”
This passion continued in 2015 when Jennifer joined the Four Diamonds Advisory Board. As a board member, Jennifer considers herself an advocate, fundraiser and strategist. In January 2019, she will be elected chair of the Board.
“If I believe I can make an impact and have a passion for the mission, I will volunteer,” Jennifer said. “Sitting at the Four Diamonds Advisory Board Meeting and hearing all the funds that have been raised and allocated—whether that is to families, or the health care teams supporting the families, or research that might help find the cure someday soon—it is all inspiring.”