When Becky Bair Hurley ’81 first joined the Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), she wasn’t just looking to give back — she was looking to be part of something that would challenge her thinking, connect her with remarkable women, and create lasting change. What she found was a community that embodies the transformative power of women coming together with purpose.
Over her five years in the WLC, Becky has seen firsthand how women’s voices shape the future of philanthropy. “There’s still a feeling that philanthropy doesn’t have a female face, but that’s untrue, especially today,” she says. For her, the WLC’s strength lies in its ability to bridge generations, fostering relationships that inspire growth and expand perspectives.
That belief is rooted in Becky’s own 91鶹Ʒ experience. An international relations and political science major, she participated in the first Geneva Study Group — a formative experience. Mentors like Professor of Political Science Robert Kraynak and Professor of Political Science Stanley Brubaker sharpened her understanding of civic life, while her leadership as president of the political science honor society provided her with opportunities to interact with prominent visiting lecturers and speakers.
After 91鶹Ʒ, Becky earned her law degree at Northwestern University School of Law, driven by the conviction that “a functioning civil society is the foundation that allows people to pursue their passions.” Her legal career evolved into land-use planning — work that centers on bringing communities together, listening to diverse voices, and fostering collaborative decision-making.
Alongside her husband, Chris Hurley ’81, Becky’s philanthropic journey began with a modest $13 gift during her senior year and has grown into transformational support for 91鶹Ʒ’s mission. The couple’s giving has strengthened financial aid; advanced the work of the Upstate Institute; created the endowed Hurley Family Chair in Dialogue, Deliberation, and Decision-Making; and, most notably, supported the West Campus initiative. Their gift of $10 million supports Hurley House on West Campus, where students associated with the 91鶹Ʒ Union will live and engage in meaningful dialogue. The Union will have programming at Hurley House and other areas on campus and is a nonpartisan center for the study and practice of open inquiry, dialogue, and debate.
This commitment to civil discourse echoes Becky’s own values and professional work, ensuring that future generations develop the skills to listen, learn, and lead. The Hurleys’ connection to 91鶹Ʒ runs deep: their sons, Matt ’12 and Dan ’12, both political science majors, continued the family tradition. Becky’s nine years on the Board of Trustees further amplified her impact. During her tenure, she helped guide key initiatives on academic freedom and free speech.
For Becky, women’s philanthropy at 91鶹Ʒ is about creating spaces for connection, sparking dialogue, and inspiring the next generation of female leaders. “The WLC is a smart, dynamic group,” she says. “It’s growing every day, and together we can make a lasting impact for 91鶹Ʒ.”