Senior gift making a comeback

Typically, when a graduating class of students walks the stage, they give the institution something in return as a, “thank you," for everything the University has done for them. This is commonly called a Senior Gift. If you’ve never heard of a senior gift, that’s probably not your fault because the last time a senior gift was given was in 2003. I have a problem with this.
Giving a senior gift is a good idea for many reasons:
1. It shows class unity and class pride. It’s a huge accomplishment to make it through 4 years of college. As we near this life-changing period in our lives, let’s all pull together as a senior class and collaborate on a gift to express our appreciation for the education and experiences we received. Ask yourself: Is it customary to show appreciation for an entity that changed your life for the better?
2. It sets an example for younger classes to give back. Much like a younger brother looks up to his older brother, future classes might be inspired to raise funds for their own gift and carry on the legacy for generations to come.
3. It starts a tradition that can be carried on from year to year. We don’t have many traditions, so wouldn’t this be a great way to start?
4. It’s a way to be introduced to the idea of philanthropy. It’s a new idea that not many college-age students are used to. Many of us have already donated time and energy for a cause; look at Passionately Pink, Relay for Life and Habitat for Humanity! But donating money is not as common and is not the same. Philanthropy and patronage play large roles in social goals of the real world.
5. It helps with recruitment. When prospective students see or hear of a gift given by a senior class, it shows an appreciation for the University and reflects well on that class and the University as a whole.
6. It’s a transformation. Giving a senior gift is a way to recognize emerging adults in a student body.
Odds are you are here on some form of financial assistance. That financial assistance comes from patronage and gift giving.
“Even if you’re paying full tuition, it doesn’t cover the full cost,” said Stan Colla, Vice President for University Relations.
He added that at least 15% of the cost of your education is paid for by donations and philanthropy.
Laurie McFadden, AU Archivist added, “most students are here on a discounted tuition, paid through many scholarships set up by past students who received the same kind of support.”
There is talk of bringing this lost tradition back as the class of 2010 says goodbye to Alfred. Ideas are currently being formulated and schemes are being brainstormed for a sufficient and adequate senior gift.
If you have any ideas, I encourage you to speak with administrator Susan Gorman or Senior Ian Cramer. Students long ago weren’t any more enthusiastic about giving up their hard earned dollars, but they managed to pull together and give back to the University. College students are poor and we understand that. But we’re not asking for a large amount.
“It’s more about participation than amount” said Colla.
If you’re graduating this May, the University has had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on your life both professionally and personally.
Giving a senior gift is not an unreasonable goal and can be accomplished if we have the support and cooperation of the seniors. Class of 2010, assemble!