Seniors, Say Thanks to St. Joe's

By: Amanda Burd

OK seniors, there are less than 100 days until we graduate. I’m not excited to pose for a gazillion pictures at commencement. I also find the cap and gown ensemble completely unattractive. Most of all, I can’t imagine the bittersweet feeling that awaits us all when we pull out of the parking lot our last day here. Everything which comprised our life for the past four years will change. It’s distressing.

Despite my apprehension about leaving, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for my time here. Sure, we’ve all been besieged by exams or papers at some point. We’ve all questioned why the Mexican place was removed from Campion. And we’ve had moments of frustration seeking parking. Yet we’ve also formed a bond to this place we will never sever. Forever, we will remember our freshman dorm. We will chuckle about getting lost inside Barbelin. We will recall our first time cheering in the student section. Our favorite professors (Dr. Sherman anyone?) will be special memories, too.

For most of us, the most noteworthy element of Saint Joseph’s isn’t related to our coursework or the physical structures on campus­; it’s the relationships we’ve formed that are the most meaningful. Through service, clubs, intramural sports and simply sitting in classrooms together we have connected to truly amazing people. At the end of four years, we will walk away from SJU with many wonderful memories. I’m not ready to leave behind Hawk Hill, but I am changed for the better because of it.

Without a doubt, this institution has changed all of us. So how do you acknowledge St. Joe’s as such a significant part of your life? By contributing $20.10 to Senior Challenge, you recognize SJU as a momentous piece of your life. Contributions to the fund ensure future Hawks have the same positive experience that we did. Besides legitimizing your experience here, some other perks accompany your gift. The first 300 participants receive an SJU Class of 2010 commemorative pint glass. In addition, each donor’s name and the name of someone they would like to honor (your parents perhaps?) are listed in a supplement to the Commencement program. Contributors also receive crimson and grey honor cords to wear on graduation day, signifying their choice to accept the Challenge. The Senior Challenge gift will go towards a student scholarship and also to continued improvements in the Hagan Arena that was dedicated during our senior year. If you prefer, you can designate your gift to a specific on-campus organization or department. Our collective Senior Class Gift will be presented to Fr. Lannon and the University during the Commencement ceremony.

It might seem unnecessary to give back to Saint Joseph’s. However, the vast majority of scholarships and campus activities are funded through donor gifts. In fact, 25% of your own experience here was made possible because of donors. Participating in Senior Challenge is a way to say thanks to the University for your last four years. It’s easy to participate. There is a table each Tuesday in Campion where gifts can be made with cash, check or credit card. Or, visit the Senior Challenge website and donate online at www.sju.edu/seniorchallenge. We hope to beat last year’s record-breaking Senior Challenge efforts: 43% of 2009 graduates donated, raising $10,800. Already, nearly 10% of our class has met the Challenge, so we are on our way to beat the Class of 2009 and set SJU’s new record.

As graduation approaches, it’s important to recognize that St. Joe’s has changed you forever. Consider all the ways that SJU has impacted your life and say thanks.