Baylor Seniors Establish Endowed Scholarship Fund For Future Students

Contact: Mark Richardson, Baylor Fund Director, University Development, (254) 710-2561

Baylor University's Class of 2008 represents students from different backgrounds, majors, organizations and ambitions. However, these students are united by more than a common graduation year, as more than 84 percent of Baylor students receive financial aid of some kind to attend Baylor.

Starting this year, Baylor's senior class gift will establish and support an endowed scholarship fund. As the fund grows, more students will be able to experience Baylor, thanks to Baylor students who went before them.

"I really wouldn't be at Baylor had it not been for scholarships," said Gary Guadagnolo, a senior University Scholar from Arlington, Texas, who benefits from the Dr. and Mrs. Zack Bobo Jr. Scholarship Fund, the Carr P. Collins Scholars Program and a President's Scholarship. "As we prepare to graduate, let's commemorate our incredible experiences by providing the resources for others to continue the Baylor tradition."

"The Class of 2008 exhibits superior foresight in selecting an endowed scholarship as their class gift," said Baylor President John M. Lilley. "By establishing this scholarship, they lay the groundwork for a lifetime of philanthropy. Thanks to all who support this project. You truly are making a difference at Baylor, now and into the future."

The fundraising for this student-led initiative depends primarily on the efforts and contributions of seniors, though many parents choose to honor their child by making a gift in their child's name. Recognizing that students often do not have significant financial resources, but that numerous small contributions go a long way, the senior class gift committee is asking each senior to give at least $25.

"The best thing about our endowed scholarship is that it will give back directly to Baylor students. Scholarship money will come from the interest generated from the gift, while the principal amount will remain untouched," said David Hao, a senior economics major from Albuquerque, N.M., and senior class president. "In time, this gift has the potential to become one of Baylor's largest endowed scholarships."

"I can think of no greater legacy than for a student to make a Baylor education a reality for students for years to come," said Mark Richardson, director of the Baylor Fund. "This will become a time honored tradition for all students. Individuals contributing to this scholarship should take tremendous pride in knowing that future Baylor students' dreams will be realized through the efforts of this senior class and through senior classes to come."

In addition to supporting future students, the senior class gift allows students to celebrate the end of their undergraduate journey and demonstrate their Baylor pride.

"I am thrilled that the Class of 2008 has chosen to establish an endowed scholarship," said Bill Dube, director of Baylor's endowed scholarship program. "Of course I'm biased, but I can't think of a better way to support Baylor and its mission."

For more information about the senior class gift endowed scholarship or to make a gift, contact Mark Richardson at (254) 710-2561 or visit www.baylor.edu/seniorclassgift. Gifts also can be made online through Baylor's secure site at www.baylor.edu/onlinegiving.