Q+A with Now We Fly donor and alumna Judy Murphy Lauch ’68

How did your experience at Regis change your life or help you find your path?

When I attended Regis it was an all-women’s college and most of the faculty and staff were women. I credit Regis with instilling confidence, determination, and inspiration in me. These characteristics have affected all aspects of my life, far beyond the academics. Confidence and determination were essential in my “mostly male dominated” high-tech career and the accomplishments of the Regis professors, mostly Sisters of Saint Joseph, provided the role models of what women could achieve.

Now We Fly is the most ambitious campaign in Regis’ history. Why are you confident that this is Regis’ time?

I have always supported the Regis Fund annually and have increased my giving over the years as circumstances allowed. I was continually impressed with the evolutionary and courageous decisions made throughout the years. I give particular credit to the late S. Thérèse Higgins and Dr. Mary Jane England for their leadership during pivotal times in the college’s history. And now, with Dr. Toni Hays at the helm, the school is far exceeding expectations. This is the time.

How do you feel Regis stands out as special, unique, and strong?

Regis balances a liberal arts foundation with job applicable degrees. They have created degrees, certifications and cross-discipline courses that reflect the needs of the workplace. Faculty resilience to accomplish these offerings is quite impressive.

When you think about the evolution of Regis over the years, what do you think has changed and what has stayed the same?

Clearly the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph is the most enduring value. During the 1960s, the charism was evidenced by their presence and students’ interactions with them. Now, as most have left the Regis campus, their care for the dear neighbor without distinction is embodied in the spirit of all that is Regis, and forever engraved in our new buildings.

Why do you believe in Regis?

Results. I have seen the students at graduation and it is the most amazing sight—the number of degree recipients and the shared excitement of all involved.

Why do you choose to invest in Regis by supporting Now We Fly: The Campaign for Regis?

My husband and I made a five-year commitment to the Now We Fly campaign, which is higher than we’ve given in the past because Regis has upped her game and her supporters need to as well. And even though we are retired from our careers and essentially on fixed incomes, there are a variety of ways to give: my husband gives to Regis and gives a smaller amount to his alma mater which is a very large school where results are harder to see than at Regis; we can donate Required Minimum Distributions from IRAs (for those age 70 ½ and older) directly to Regis and avoid taxes; we can name Regis in a bequest/as a beneficiary.

What does the theme Now We Fly mean to you?

There have been a few times in Regis’ history where they have “turned the corner.” But Regis has grown in so many ways that now Regis is far above where we’ve ever been. It’s Regis’ time to fly and our support is needed to support Regis’ flight.