The Bellwether Network
Advancing the Future of Information, Technology, and Society
The Bellwether Network brings together alumni, industry leaders, philanthropists, and innovators who share a belief in the power of information and technology to improve lives and strengthen society.
Through philanthropy, thought partnership, and engagement with the UC Berkeley School of Information, Bellwether Network participants help advance the ideas, research, and educational experiences that prepare future leaders to navigate an increasingly complex technological world.
The Network supports the School's highest priorities through the Bellwether Strategic Priorities Fund, with a focus on:
| Faculty Excellence & InnovationAttracting and supporting exceptional faculty whose teaching and research shape the future of information, technology, and society. |
| Real-World Learning & Student OpportunityExpanding fellowships, applied learning experiences, and industry-connected capstone projects that prepare students to solve complex challenges. |
| South Hall Legacy & Future VisionPreserving Berkeley's oldest academic building while investing in spaces that support innovation, collaboration, and the future growth of the School. |
Bellwether Strategic Priorities Fund
The Bellwether fund empowers Dean Eric Meyer to accelerate the School of Information’s boldest ambitions. Your support drives transformative innovation, powering cutting-edge education, pioneering research, and real-world solutions that solidify the I School’s leadership in an increasingly data-driven world.
Engagement Pathways
The Bellwether Network offers multiple pathways for engagement, allowing participants to engage with the School in ways that align with their interests, expertise, and philanthropic goals. From Bellwether Friends to the Circle and Council, participants help advance the School's mission while supporting the Bellwether Strategic Priorities Fund and the future of the UC Berkeley School of Information.
Bellwether Friends
Engage. Connect. Support.
Bellwether Friends is the entry point into the Bellwether Network, designed for alumni and supporters who want to engage with the School's mission through philanthropy, events, and ongoing connection.
Through annual gifts of $250 or more, Bellwether Friends participants support the Bellwether Strategic Priorities Fund and help advance the School's most important opportunities for impact.
Highlights
- Annual gifts of $250 or more supporting the Bellwether Strategic Priorities Fund
- Alumni and regional engagement opportunities
- Select Bellwether and School events
- Faculty and student stories
- Impact updates and communications
Bellwether Circle
Learn. Connect. Grow Your Partnership.
The Bellwether Circle is a curated group of leaders engaging more deeply with the UC Berkeley School of Information through philanthropy, learning, and connection.
The Circle serves as a pathway for individuals interested in building a closer partnership with the School over time while supporting its continued growth and impact.
Highlights
- Bellwether salons and gatherings
- Engagement with faculty research, student experiences, and emerging areas of focus
- Curated opportunities to connect with faculty, students, and School leadership
- Participation in a thoughtful network of peers interested in the future of technology and society
- Opportunities to deepen engagement over time
- Gift commitment of $10,000+
Bellwether Council
Partner. Advise. Accelerate Impact.
The Bellwether Council is a curated group of philanthropic leaders partnering directly with Dean Eric Meyer and the UC Berkeley School of Information to advance the School's highest-impact priorities.
Council members play an active role in supporting and shaping initiatives across faculty excellence, real-world learning, and South Hall's future vision — helping the School move quickly on emerging opportunities.
Through a combination of philanthropic support, strategic perspective, and network engagement, Council members help accelerate the School's growth and impact while strengthening its position as a leading voice at the intersection of technology and society.
Areas of Engagement
- Faculty Excellence & Innovation
- Real-World Learning & Student Opportunity
- South Hall Legacy & Future Vision
- Emerging Strategic Opportunities
Highlights
- Direct engagement with Dean Eric Meyer and School leadership
- Strategic discussions on institutional priorities and emerging opportunities
- Faculty briefings and thought leadership conversations
- Opportunities to provide perspective, insight, and strategic guidance
- Partnership with fellow leaders, innovators, and philanthropists committed to the School's future
Get Involved
Interested in learning more about the Bellwether Network?
Contact the Office of External Relations & Development to explore opportunities for engagement and partnership with the UC Berkeley School of Information.
