The use of personal student success stories as an advocacy tool provides a sense of reality for those of influence. In the case of community colleges, sharing stories of students overcoming adverse circumstances provides context to those who have never experienced community colleges or students' lives, including the depth and breadth of life experiences that can prevent them from completing a degree or credential. Personal stories reflect reality and truth. They bring to life true context for decisionmakers, policymakers, and funders. Personal stories coupled with accurate statistics and/or data become extraordinary advocacy tools. Apart, they are less effective, and justly suspect. Dr. Nancy Rieves, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, agrees. "Telling stories about the success of our students is an important part of successful fundraising. It is so important that donors know what they are investing in, how their donations are used, and how they are making an impact. It is important to effectively feature student stories on our foundation Web site, in newsletters, and in fundraising appeals," she says.