Mollicas Champion Fairfield’s 8th Annual Parents & Family Challenge

When Jim and Michelle Mollica, P’27 first visited Fairfield University for Admitted Students Day in 2023, they expected to learn more about their daughter’s future college and to get a feel for the experience she might have. What they didn’t expect was to find a community that their whole family could embrace and a journey they could truly share together.

Today, Sofia Mollica ’27 is a junior in the Dolan School of Business, majoring in marketing with a concentration in fashion and minors in business analytics and Italian. Jim and Michelle proudly serve as co-chairs of the Parents Leadership Council. In this role, they work to strengthen parent programs and encourage other families to explore areas of interest and opportunities for engagement.

This week, the Mollicas—alongside fellow members of the Parents Leadership Council—are helping to lead the 8^th Annual Parents & Family Challenge, a Fairfield tradition that brings families together to celebrate and encourage students. Running from Oct. 22 to 28, the weeklong challenge aims to reach a total of 500 donors to unlock an additional $150,000 challenge gift sponsored by the Parents Leadership Council.

The Mollicas are enthusiastic about the challenge, as they themselves first began making philanthropic gifts to Fairfield out of a deep appreciation for the community and a strong belief in the power of a collective impact.

 "We give because Fairfield has given so much to our family: an education rooted in values, a community that feels like home, and the opportunity to be part of something bigger” said Michelle. “Giving to Fairfield means investing in tradition, impact, and the future our students are building together."

At the heart of the challenge is a message that deeply resonates with the Mollicas: every gift, of every amount matters. “The challenge is a special opportunity for families to participate in a Fairfield tradition, expand the impact of their gift, and celebrate this wonderful community we’re all part of.” Jim said. “Every gift counts. And when we reach or surpass 500 donors, unlock the challenge gift, and see the total at the end, we can be proud that we did it together. Together, as a community, in support of our students and their academic journey.”

Fairfield families are encouraged to participate in any way they can. Whether by making a gift, becoming a challenge advocate, or spreading the word in other ways.

“We’re proud of this parent and family community and the impact we have on the trajectory of the Fairfield experience,” Michelle said. “We hope you’ll join us in making a gift towards the Parents & Family Challenge and of course, in celebrating Stag spirit and all that makes the Fairfield community so special!”

The level of community engagement at Fairfield continues to be an aspect of the Fairfield experience that sets the University apart from peer institutions. Support of initiatives like the Parents & Family Challenge help to ensure rigorous and comprehensive academic programs, student life activities, financial aid, health and wellness services, and more.

To learn more and participate in the Parents & Family Challenge, visit fairfield.edu/challenge2025.

For information on additional opportunities for parent engagement, please contact the Office of Parent Engagement & Philanthropy.

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