Spotlight on Paul Elstone
Paul Elstone (BA Economic History, 1990) is Senior Director for Corporate and Foundation Relations at the University of Oregon. Paul is a Director of
University of Liverpool in America Inc.
Why did you decide to study at the University of Liverpool?
Well, it took me a few years to tell my parents the real story....I have always loved history, but I decided that I had had enough of political history
and was looking for economic and social history courses. The first place on my list was Liverpool not, I confess, because I knew of the quality of the
programme, but because I had been, and remain, a lifelong supporter of Liverpool FC. Luckily for me, the programme was good. I also knew I was
interested in an ‘urban’ campus, integrated into the city, rather than something away from it. I got all of this from Liverpool and had a fantastic time
there.
What do you remember most about your student days in Liverpool?
Two of my professors were just outstanding – Mike Tadman and Robert Lee. Their lectures and tutorial discussions on race in America and East Germany
made me think of the world in a completely different way. A group of friends who I am still in regular contact with lived in a house on Wellington
Avenue, off Smithdown Road. The house was quite a scene and all sorts of very interesting stuff happened there. It was just a fantastic time of my
life. I was also fortunate to be a part of the Liverpool golf team that won the English UAU title in 1989 and 1990. Playing regularly at Royal Liverpool
Golf Club was a nice perk, and we also had some great travels together.
How has your time at Liverpool helped you in your career?
I learnt a lot about history in my studies, but what I really learnt was how to organise, prioritise and present information in a compelling way. This
is something that we are all refining constantly, but it really clicked for me at Liverpool. Living in the city itself was also an incredibly
eye-opening experience. I grew up in a small town in rural Lincolnshire and living in Liverpool set me on a path of wanting to know a lot more about the
world. It was my first step that eventually led me to living in the US.
Why did you decide to become a Director of University of Liverpool in America Inc?
I have worked as a fundraiser in the US for more than 10 years now. It is a real thrill to work with donors who are prepared to invest their hard-earned
money in causes that they think will have a major impact on the world.
For the past five years I have also taught a first year university class on
philanthropy. I strongly believe that it is important that we all give back to organisations that have helped us in our lives.
I am impressed with what
the University of Liverpool is doing at home and abroad, for example the new China campus, and want to help as the University increases its outreach in
the US. Global reach is increasingly important for future success.
How important do you think it is for alumni to give back to their University?
It is very important. Previous generations did it for us in different ways. But it shouldn’t only be done out of duty. Philanthropy is an immensely
enjoyable experience for donors– people want to make the world a better place.
Supporting the university you attended so others can start out on a path
to a successful life is a great way to do this.
What advice would you give to a US student who is thinking about applying to the University of Liverpool?
First, learn about some of the exceptionally strong academic programs that are there. Second, find out about the city. Liverpool might not be the
version of ‘merrie-olde-England’ that the US media likes to present, but it is so much better than that! Contact some recent alumni - we can help you do that - and talk to them about what they liked about it. Finally, make sure you support the Reds!