University Park, Pa. – Penn State's Senior Class Gift Committee invites all members of the University community to submit proposals for the 2011 class gift.
The tradition of class gifts began when the class of 1861, at its reunion in 1890, gave the University a portrait of Penn State's first president, Evan Pugh, which still hangs in the lobby of Old Main. Past gifts include scholarships, the Nittany Lion Shrine, the restoration and display of the Old Main bell, and many campus improvement projects.
“Senior class gifts embody the pride and appreciation that generations of students have shown for Penn State,” said Senior Class Gift Committee Chair Benjamin Witt, a senior in chemical engineering. “In the middle of the University’s largest fundraising effort in history -- For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students -- members of the class of 2011 have the opportunity to make a gift not only for their own class, but also to be part of the historic tradition of class gifts and giving back to Penn State.
"We welcome any and all suggestions to help us make the best possible choice for our class gift."
Any member of the University community is eligible to submit a proposal for the gift. Gifts can add something new to campus or can help to improve or endow existing gifts. A volunteer committee of students, faculty, and staff will review all proposals and establish a ballot of three potential gifts. In October, seniors will be asked to vote for their choice.
To submit a proposal, visit http://www.SeniorClassGift.psu.edu and follow the proposal instructions. The deadline for proposals is Friday, Sept. 17. Questions can be directed to Jordan Ford, senior class gift adviser, at 814-863-3935 or jaf378@psu.edu.