Harper College will be closed Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.
At just 28, Lillian Xie has already made history at Harper College. An alumna of the
Distinguished Scholar Award program, Lillian is now the youngest planned giving donor
in the college’s history—an act of foresight and gratitude that reflects her deep
commitment to the power of education.
Lillian’s journey began at Harper, where a scholarship allowed her to pursue her studies without the burden of financial strain. “It gave me the time and space to grow, to lead, and to learn,” she recalls. Her time on campus as a student leader left an indelible mark, shaping not just her academic path but her values.
Today, Lillian serves as Director of Grants and Special Initiatives at a community foundation in Washington state. Her work focuses on managing scholarships and helping fundholders bring their philanthropic visions to life. “My favorite part is getting to meet students and their families, seeing firsthand the impact of our support,” she says. Her professional role brings her full circle—she once received a scholarship, and now she helps give them.
That deep understanding of the student experience is what inspired Lillian to include Harper College in her estate plan. “It’s a way to say thank you,” she says. “Planned giving isn’t just about the future—it’s about creating access, now and always.”
Lillian’s legacy is a testament to the ripple effect of generosity. From receiving a scholarship at Harper to guiding others in their philanthropic journeys, she embodies the spirit of giving back. Her story is not just about financial gifts—it’s about investing in others the way someone once invested in her.
In Lillian’s words, “If you lift someone up, you lift a whole community.” At Harper College, she’s doing just that.
Join us in empowering the next generation of alumni. The Harper College Educational Foundation is committed to transforming lives through education by providing scholarships, funding innovative programs, and supporting student services that remove barriers to success. Learn more or make a gift today.