Earning diplomas, giving scholarships

OSU Foundation asks 2008 graduates for $25 donations to create honorary scholarship

By: Daniel Acee

Posted: 5/9/08

Although to some students graduation means finally escaping the realms of college, OSU is hoping that students will leave behind more than just memories.

The OSU Foundation is encouraging the senior graduating class of 2008 to contribute to a class of '08 scholarship. This scholarship will benefit future students of OSU for years to come.

In the words of Michele Reiling, the telefund manager of the OSU Foundation, the senior class gift program is a gift from the seniors to the university.

"Our goal is to get as many seniors involved with the program as possible; participating is much more important than the amount that you decide to give!" according to the OSU Foundation website.

The OSU Foundation is trying to get at least $25 from 500 seniors this year to reach a total goal of $15,000. The money will then be used to award scholarships in the honor of the 2008 class.

"I think this is a really cool program," said Daniel Lais, a senior in mechanical engineering. "At first the thought of paying more to the school was a bad idea, but now that I see it's a worthwhile scholarship, I am going to make a donation."

This is the first year of the program, but the OSU Foundation hopes to make this year a success so that every graduating class can have a scholarship in which it is honored.

"I think it's a great program. I like the idea that our class will be making a difference for a long time," said Tommy Simpson, a senior in business administration. "If I were in a position to donate, I would."

The scholarship will be administered by the Office of Financial Aid to support an academically worthy, financially needy student attending OSU.

Students can make online donations at www.campaignforosu.org.

Daniel Acee, senior reporter

news@dailybarometer.com, 737-2231