Class of 2002 Makes Record-Setting Gift

April 30, 2002

April 30, 2002, Greencastle, Ind. - DePauw University's Class of 2002 has yet to take final exams or receive diplomas but its lasting legacy on the Greencastle campus is already assured. Seventy-five percent of this year's graduates are participating in the Senior Gift Program, an all-time record for the University, surpassing the 71.3% giving rate of the Class of 2001.

[DOWNLOAD VIDEO: "Showing Their Pride" 347KB] [DOWNLOAD AUDIO: "Showing Their Pride" 171KB] "They were determined and dedicated to the Senior Gift Program, and they really came together as a class to show their pride in the Class of 2002," said Melanie Bowen, assistant director of the Annual Fund.

The Senior Gift Program is a fundraising effort by the senior class, with the assistance of the Annual Fund Office. Chairs were seniors Ashley J. Barnett, Elizabeth H. Kurfess, Alfredo “Freddy” Marrero, Justin L. McNabney, and Catherine A. Modisett. During the week of April 15-19, living unit representatives collected gifts from their classmates. Seniors gave donations in honor of their parents, a favorite professor, or a staff member who had a positive impact on their four years at DePauw. The program, which began in 1998, has seen steady growth in participation rates each year. [DOWNLOAD VIDEO: "They Accomplished It" 615KB] [DOWNLOAD AUDIO: "They Accomplished It" 310KB]  Bowen (seen at right) says the Class of 2002 "really wanted to beat last year's record and they did that, they accomplished it."

"Alumni giving is an important factor used to rank colleges and universities," according to Lisa A. Hollander, director of the Annual Fund. "The higher a school's ranking, the higher its perceived value. A higher rate of young alumni participation helps to ensure that the University continues to enhance its national reputation The Class of 2002 already left a legacy on campus prior to graduation on May 19. Following a remarkable 71.3% participation rate by the Class of 2001, the Class of 2002 rose to the challenge with a record-breaking 75% of the class participating in the Senior Gift Program.

Nancy Shelly Schaenen, a 1951 DePauw graduate, generously agreed to match the money raised by the senior class. The Class of 2002 will use the matching funds to leave a physical gift on campus, [DOWNLOAD AUDIO: "9-11 Bench" 374KB] "a brick and limestone bench which will be right outside the Union Building on the corner of Locust and Hanna [Streets], right next to the flagpole. There will be a plaque on back side of the bench commemorating September 11, 2001," Bowen said.

A celebration event is being planned for Friday, May 17 to recognize and honor the senior class for their outstanding achievement and dedication in the Senior Gift Program.

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