Every year since the 1960s, a board of Senior Class Officers is chosen to lead the senior class gift and decide where they would like to improve areas of campus. 2016 Senior Class Officer President, Carolyn Johnson states, “It’s important for underclassmen to be aware of the Senior Class Gift Campaign so that when it’s their turn to be seniors, it’s not something brand new to them. Basically, ensuring that the SCOs have a presence at various campus events helps to continue the pipeline of students that are aware of the gift and willing to donate.” Typically, this is the first donation students make to their alma mater. Each gift that is received adds value to their alma mater and diploma because they are ultimately benefitting the university. UC alumnae and Senior Class Officer advisor, Adrienne McDade, has been helping coordinate such an incredible legacy for the past four years. “It’s tradition. Since the ‘60s, graduating seniors have had a desire to make their mark on campus through their time & talent. So, why not make the mark through their treasure,” shares McDade, “Bottom line, the greater support we give our alma mater, the better our world-class facilities, programs, faculty, experiences and reputation become.”
Photo courtesy: Senior Class Officers 2016
When the University has given so much to students, wouldn’t the students want to give so much to the University? “We try to help other students remember their good times at the University so that they can continue to have that tie to UC after graduation, which leads to a lot of personal reflection,” said Johnson. After this reflection, the goal is for students to realize the bigger picture…leaving a legacy at the University of Cincinnati. However, this does come at a cost. But, it is as simple as giving $1 towards the cause. McDade explains, “It makes a collective impact because there is so much immediate and future impact that a graduating class can have on the University when they put their $100, $50, $20.16, $10, or even $1 gifts together.” If it comes down to the cost “Students often ask, ‘Why would I give a donation when I am still paying tuition and student loans? UC already gets enough of my money!’ However, part of our job is to educate them that every donation that we receive helps to increase the value of a UC diploma.” The words “thy loyal children we will be” can often some to mind. This is not only a monetary promise but a gift that benefits the campus that has been with us for four or five years. Other avenues of advertising such as the annual senior class t-shirt and fundraisers throughout the year help support this gift.
Photo courtesy: Senior Class Officers 2016
So, what is this gift and how is it chosen? “This year’s gift will go towards signage. There are plans to put lighted posts with UC-branded banners along Jefferson Avenue,” explains McDade, “This project was accepted in partnership with the architect’s office. The 2016 Senior Class Officers wanted anyone who is visiting UC to know when they are actually on campus.” Anyone can attest to the beautiful architecture and inviting campus at the University of Cincinnati. As proud Bearcats, it seems only fitting we keep our campus up to par. Johnson said, “We worked with UC’s architecture office to ensure we could keep campus connected to the surrounding community while still bringing more Bearcat-spirit to the area. We were very careful to make sure we wouldn’t be drawing a line between campus and the rest of the Clifton community. The signs will be added to light posts that will be going in on Jefferson Ave. soon to help future students and their families find campus.”
Photo courtesy: Senior Class Officers 2017
The Senior Class Gift varies from year to year. Part of the Senior Class Officer duties is to help discover what area of campus needs more to benefit from. 2017 Senior Class Officer President Sam Schroeder shares, “This is the only chance you’ll have to donate to the university in conjunction with your graduating class. Just as college is fleeting, the opportunity for you to leave your mark on the university with your class at graduation only happens once.” There are several ideas in the works for the next academic year. Above all, the Senior Class Officers want to hear the diverse voices of the senior class. “My goal is simple: amplify. Your Senior Class Officers are committed to amplifying your gift to the university,” shares Schroeder, “Participation is going to be key to amplifying the spirit and legacy our class is leaving behind. We need your voice, we need your commitment, and we need your belief in the class of 2017.”
Photo courtesy: Senior Class Officers