Parents
A newsletter for parents of Bethel University students
Senior Class Gift
Parents Play a Vital Part
By Monique Champeau ’08
A star soccer player, a jazz trumpeter, and the senior class president met early this month to talk about the last four years. With different experiences, their message is the same: Bethel has positively influenced or shaped their lives, and they want to give something back.
That’s why this year’s group of seniors has revamped the traditional class gift program by renaming it “Royal Legacy,” reflecting a desire to leave something less tangible but longer-lasting. Ideas have included endowing a yearly scholarship, funding an on-campus program, or giving to a specific academic field.
Concerned that graduating seniors may not have the funds or desire to give a large gift, the committee has also suggested more indirect and fun ways to give that focus on class unity. This year, instead of just writing a check, students can contribute a few hours from their next work shift and what they earn, give their spare change in a coin drive that will add up to a class-wide gift, or attend an event where the ticket proceeds benefit the Class of 2008 gift.
In past years, graduating classes have funded everything from a bench on Seminary Hill to a new grill and patio beside Heritage Hall. Many parents have partnered with their graduates in the effort: last year, parents’ donations made up more than 80 percent of the $3,350 parting gift. As the tradition of leaving a class gift at graduation takes a different shape, the message remains the same. Grads and their parents are proud to be a part of Bethel, proud of the students’ accomplishments, and of what they can do to give something back.
Royal Legacy members will be meeting again this month to finalize plans for this year’s gift. A mailing will be sent out soon with more information on how to participate.