Class of 2016 learns the power of a dollar
Sep 11, 2012 | The St. Bonaventure University freshman class of 2016 kicked off introductory Welcome Days with a fun and creative lesson in philanthropy. They were each provided an envelope containing a fresh new $1 bill.
The power of the dollar became clear when students were later asked to turn around and give that money back.
The power of a dollar was illustrated when members of the class of 2016 were asked to pool their money at a symbolic excercise during Welcome Days. Freshmen Alex Hamilton and Ryan McCormack, whose names were randomly drawn, each received a $250 scholarship.
Once pooled, the money was then split into two $250 scholarships and randomly awarded to two incoming freshmen.
Ryan McCormack and Alex Hamilton were this year’s scholarship recipients.
“Giving back is an important component of the university,” said McCormack, an accounting major from Long Beach, NY. “I am very grateful for the university having an event like this to help sponsor an incoming freshman because every dollar helps.”
Hamilton, a computer science major from Derry, N.H., added, “It’s cool to get a scholarship funded by peers. One dollar isn’t a lot of money, but it adds up. It made me very appreciative of my fellow students.”
This hands-on exercise was introduced to St. Bonaventure by Alan Riddle, a graduate of the university and assistant director of The Bonaventure Fund.
“This program was designed to reinforce the importance of giving back and to let students know that their dollar can go a lot further than they realize,” said Riddle. “It is important to instill in our future alumni that no matter the amount, their gifts are greatly appreciated and can really make a difference for our students.”
Since its beginning as the "Alumni Fund" in 1888, The Bonaventure Fund has been the primary vehicle through which alumni have supported St. Bonaventure. As the foundation of the university’s fundraising program, it provides scholarship support, academic program enhancement, faculty development opportunities and facility upgrades.
The hope is that this symbolic exercise sticks with the incoming students, and will in turn drive them to give back to their alma mater upon graduating.
By Josh Dubin , '12