Record-breaking Class of 2016
Acting President Nancy Targett honors Senior Class Gift Council
5:13 p.m., April 27, 2016--The University of Delaware’s Class of 2016 is breaking records with its generosity, and the Senior Class Gift Council is spearheading the effort.
In February, the Senior Class Gift Council hosted the most successful kick-off event, ever, at the Stone Balloon raising more than $1,000, and since that time more than 400 seniors have donated nearly $13,000 collectively. The council is raising awareness across campus about the importance of paying it forward and, as a result, is garnering increasing support from classmates.
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“The Senior Class Gift is an opportunity for seniors to show their appreciation for the many experiences they have had at the University of Delaware,” said Lauren Kirchhausen, assistant director of leadership annual giving. “By giving back to any area about which they are passionate, they can acknowledge the people and programs that influenced their time at UD.”
In recognition of their efforts, on April 7, Acting President Nancy Targett invited the Senior Class Gift Council to the President’s House on Kent Way for lunch and to express her gratitude for their hard work.
“I am so proud to see students making the most of their UD experience. This lunch is my way to not only say thank you, but to congratulate them for the exceptional job done,” Targett said.
Council members met and mingled with the acting president while celebrating their collective and individual achievements. Council member Jenn Azevedo was acknowledged for single handedly raising more money from fellow seniors than any council member has ever done in the past.
For Azevedo, her time on campus has been a driving force as to why she values philanthropy.
“I can’t imagine someone not having an experience on campus like I did because of a lack of funding for those opportunities,” explained Azevedo. “To me it is obvious. Why wouldn’t you give to a place that has given you so much?”
Senior Madison Pierson, chair of the council, credits her experience working as a student caller for the Office of Development and Alumni Relations as what drove her to join the council.
“Talking with alumni, learning about their memories as students and hearing why they support the University for years after graduating really helped me realize why it’s so important to give,” said Pierson.
Brought together for all different reasons, the members of the Council are a diverse and active bunch who have quickly grown close and appreciate reasons to get together, especially when it means meeting the acting president.
“There are lots of incentives for joining the council,” explained Azevedo. “You get to make new friends, you get to help fellow students reflect on their time at UD and you get to have lunch with the president.”
"Thanks to you, our graduating students are taking the first steps to becoming highly engaged alumni committed to giving back to UD,” said Targett, as she praised the group for their hard work.
As these students walk in Commencement, they’ll know that they are leaving the University in a better position than when they arrived. Just as their time at UD has so significantly impacted their lives, they too are making an indelible mark on campus.
For those who have yet to support the Senior Class Gift, it is not too late. Interested students can give a gift now by visiting the Senior Class Gift website.
About the Senior Class Gift Council
The Senior Class Gift Council serves and represents UD’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations by educating fellow students about the need for and impact of private financial support and by inviting the members of the senior class to begin their tradition of giving back to the University. Additionally, members gain unparalleled experience in fundraising, leadership and public relations skills; are part of a dynamic and highly visible organization; work with University professionals in development and alumni relations; and are able to serve in a variety of leadership roles.
Council member benefits include an invitation to lunch with the president and special recognition at Commencement. Being an active member of the Senior Class Gift Council is a great résumé builder and networking opportunity.
Those interested in joining or learning more should contact Lauren Kirchhausen at lkirc@udel.edu or call 302-831-7458.
Article by Nadine Sabater
Photo by Wenbo Fan