The ‘Instinct’ of Giving Back
"Sometimes I think 'giving back' is just an instinct some people are born with," says Barbara Osinski '89. Osinski and her husband, Frank, certainly have that instinct, as they have assisted many organizations over the years, including giving generously to support Arcadia's new University Commons.
"Prospective students look for facilities like the Commons, and the competition for student dollars is fierce," says Osinski. "The University Commons is an essential element to campus life. Arcadia has expanded and improved in so many ways, and it needs and deserves this addition."
As a student, Osinski says her Art History Professor, Dr. Randy Neumann, helped her tremendously. "I didn't know how to research or write a paper properly. She offered to take my paper and really critique it, warning me that she would be brutal. When I got the paper back, I was amazed at the time she took. I showed it to my husband, who said no professor at his college had ever invested that much time in him! After that, I had the confidence to finish the degree." It's because of experiences like this that Osinski gives back to Arcadia.
After completing a double major in Art and Business, Osinski decided to pursue a career in business. For the last six years, she has worked as a portrait agent for the Portrait Source. She represents nationally ranked portrait artists and has handled all types of corporate, personal and university commissions, including the portrait of Dr. Bette Landman that is on permanent display in Landman Library.
In addition, the Osinskis administer the Craig Foundation, which supports arts organizations, education and healthcare services. Osinski also recently began serving as a member of the Major Gifts Subcommittee of the Arcadia Campaign Steering Committee.
As for At Home & In the World—The Campaign for Arcadia University, Osinski says, "My hopes for this Campaign include the expectation that core curriculum and student housing will be enhanced. Both are necessary to keep Arcadia competitive in this global and now very difficult economy."
