Sarah and Nate Hamill met at First Church of the Nazarene, studied at PLNU, and built careers rooted in service. Now, they're giving back, funding scholarships for students who hope to do the same. Nate studied business marketing at Point Loma, while Sarah majored in international development. For both, PLNU was more than a place to earn a degree; it was a community that invested in them, one they've spent years investing in return.
One of the most formative influences during their time at PLNU was Rob Gailey, a Fermanian School of Business faculty member with a background in economic development. Known for building lasting relationships with his students, Gailey's mentorship extended well beyond graduation.
For Sarah, that influence was especially significant. At Gailey's encouragement, she pursued an internship in Rwanda after graduating from PLNU, gaining firsthand exposure to the challenges facing developing nations. The experience sharpened her sense of purpose and led her toward a career in law focused on social good. Now, as a labor and employment attorney, she helps organizations build stronger workplaces for their employees while also building pro bono partnerships that provide legal services to communities in need.
Over the years, Gailey has remained closely involved with the Fermanian School of Business, helping develop a scholarship program for students pursuing international development and social change. Through their continued engagement with the Center for International Development, Sarah and Nate were already actively supporting this work. So when Gailey invited them to fund two scholarships for international development students, the decision was easy, they understood firsthand the impact of someone investing in them and were eager to offer that same opportunity to others.
For Nate, the giving became especially meaningful through Ceci Corona. Before transferring to PLNU, Nate knew Ceci as a barista at a coffee shop he frequented. Their paths crossed again through Ceci’s research with the CID, making the opportunity to support students like her feel personal and full circle. After conversations with Rob, their support was also extended to Lux Coker, another international development senior pursuing meaningful work.
Sarah and Nate share their story simply: others invested in them, they never forgot it, and when the opportunity came to do the same, they did. That simplicity is what makes their giving meaningful, it isn't about recognition or legacy, but helping students carry a little less financial stress so they can pursue their dreams and make a meaningful impact in the world. In doing so, they hope to open doors that make those dreams feel closer, more attainable, and give students the confidence to run toward the impact they hope to make in the world.