Jack and Hannah – Giving Hearts Day 2024

CONNECTION:

A relationship in which a person, thing or idea is linked or associated with something else.

— Oxford languages

The University of Jamestown is more often than not that “something else”, linking people in endless ways.  Take Hannah Schiele, ‘22 and Jacob ’Jack’ Talley, ‘21, for instance.  They married in the summer of 2023 and the beginning of their love story is connected to UJ.

Hannah grew up in Jamestown but always knew she wanted to be a part of the Jimmie culture.  “The way the community supports the college and athletics was and still is so cool to me.  Even though I was in my hometown, campus felt like a totally different place where I had a fresh start while keeping the homey feel.”

Jack, originally from Sioux Falls, SD, was drawn to UJ for a number of reasons.  “I chose UJ because of the reputation for great academics and smaller class size that allows you to develop relationships with professors.  As a basketball player I was also drawn to the great facilities and continued growth of athletic programs.”  The two met at a student discount bowling night.  Hannah knew who Jack was from attending UJ basketball games but remembers having to officially introduce herself.  While their first encounter was a brief interaction, it was the start of the rest of their lives.

Both student athletes, they credit UJ with important connections.  Hannah’s favorite memories include her time spent on the volleyball team. “On that team, everyone cared tremendously about each other, whether that was on or off the court.  I know any of the girls I played with have got my back still to this day.  All four years with those girls are truly so special to me.”  “The connections made at UJ have been incredibly important to me,” added Jack.  “Many of the people I became friends with during my time at UJ are people I still interact with regularly.”

When asked how the university connected them to where they are in their lives today, both indicated meeting one another was an important connection.  Hannah mentioned how UJ created many opportunities for her to grow.  “My confidence grew by leaps and bounds.  I made some incredible relationships, met my now husband and helped start my love for teaching.”  Jack also credits UJ’s importance in where he is today.  “Firstly, I met my wife at a UJ event.  I also met a number of people whether friends, teammates, peers or staff that supported me and helped me reach my goals.”

The newlyweds make their home in Sioux Falls, SD where Hannah is putting her education degree to work as a 1st grade teacher and Jack’s political science  degree helped pin a Sioux Falls Police Department badge on his lapel.  “Jamestown will always hold a special place in my heart,” adds Hannah.

When it comes to Giving Hearts Day, the choices of non-profits to choose from continues to grow.  The Talleys hope you’ll consider UJ for a variety of reasons. “UJ will put donations to good use.  I know UJ works hard to give back to their students, staff and the entire community of Jamestown.  I know UJ has everyone’s best interest at heart,” says Hannah.

Connect with the University of Jamestown by giving anytime between now and February 8th.  Go to UJ’s Giving Hearts Day site to make a donation or search ‘University of Jamestown’ at www.givingheartsday.org.

Donations will be matched up to the first $15,000!