Holly Gibson ‘09: From KU Field Hockey to Philanthropy and Giving Back

Holly Gibson’s journey at Kutztown University was not just about playing field hockey—it was a transformative experience that shaped her career and inspired a lifelong commitment to giving back. A proud Golden Bear, Holly’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and philanthropy.

Finding Her Home at Kutztown

Holly’s path to KU was unexpected. Initially looking at smaller Division III schools, she only visited Kutztown at her mother’s suggestion. However, from the moment she stepped on campus, she knew it was the right fit. “I walked away that day with no doubt in my mind,” Holly recalls. The warm welcome from Coach Wesner, Assistant Coach Jodi Cipolla, and the group of recruits—many of whom became lifelong friends—sealed the deal. The strong sense of camaraderie and support at KU Field Hockey made an immediate impact on her.

A Foundation for Success

Majoring in communications with a minor in public relations, Holly thrived academically. She credits her professors, especially Reno Unger, for their mentorship and dedication. “He was my professor and advisor, and we have kept in touch from time to time,” she shared. Unger’s legendary binder of internship opportunities helped Holly gain valuable experience, reinforcing the importance of real-world application in her studies.

A Career Rooted in Philanthropy

Following graduation, Holly’s career took off in the world of sports and philanthropy. She started as a public relations intern for the Philadelphia Eagles, an opportunity that allowed her to connect with various nonprofit organizations in the city. It was through this experience that she discovered her passion for development and fundraising.

After six seasons with the Eagles, Holly transitioned into the nonprofit sector, joining the development events team at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Her expertise in donor engagement and fundraising events grew, ultimately leading to her current role in Cleveland, Ohio. Today, Holly oversees development events for University Hospitals Health System, leading a team that raises over $3,000,000 annually. From large-scale fundraising galas to intimate donor gatherings, her work is driven by a deep understanding of the impact philanthropy can have on individuals and communities.

Why Giving Back Matters

Holly’s commitment to philanthropy extends beyond her professional life—she is also a proud supporter of KU. She and her husband established the George Thomas and Mary Alice Peacock Legacy Scholarship in memory of her late grandparents.

“I was fortunate to receive a few different smaller scholarships during my time at Kutztown. I know firsthand what a point of pride that was for my family,” she explains. Now, having built a career in development, she understands the ripple effect of giving.

Through her work, Holly has seen how donor support can change lives, and she wants to be a part of that change for future KU students. “The experience I had at KU was incredibly positive, and I want to help ensure that today’s students have access to the same opportunities that shaped me,” she says. For Holly, giving isn’t just about financial support—it’s about investing in the dreams and futures of young students, just as others once invested in hers.

The Lasting Impact of KU Field Hockey

Holly’s time with KU Field Hockey instilled in her valuable life lessons—teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—that have been instrumental beyond her time as a Golden Bear. “Athletics teach you time management, discipline, and putting others before yourself,” she said. She fondly remembers the camaraderie of road trips, the thrill of double-overtime victories, and the lifelong friendships forged through the sport.

Even after graduation, those bonds remain strong. According to Holly, “My teammates are still my best friends. We take trips together, celebrate weddings and babies, and stay connected every day.” More than that, the lessons she learned through sports continue to shape her approach to life and work.

“My husband and I always talk about the power of sport,” she said. “His career is sports-focused, and mine was for a long time too. We say it all the time—sports go beyond the field. They shape who you are, how you work with others, and how you grow as a person. It builds leadership skills, resilience, and community in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere. For me, being a good teammate made me a better wife, a better mom, and a better professional. You learn to sacrifice, to put others before yourself, and to understand what it truly means to be part of a team.”

A Legacy of Giving

Despite a busy career and raising a young family, Holly continues to prioritize giving back. Whether volunteering at the Cleveland Food Bank, supporting community initiatives with her husband (who works in baseball operations for the Cleveland Guardians), or contributing to KU, she leads with a generous spirit.

For Holly, supporting KU is about paying it forward. “I know the power of scholarships, and I want to ensure that students today and in the future have the same chance to grow, learn, and succeed at Kutztown,” she said.

Her story is a testament to KU’s lifelong impact on the field, in the classroom, and beyond. Holly Gibson embodies what it means to be a Golden Bear: passionate, driven, and always willing to give back.