Union's newest learning environment has wireless access, a minimalist design, versatility galore. Also: spectacular views, wooden benches, sun and/or shade. Bugs are optional.
The College's first-ever outside classroom, nestled behind Schaffer Library, is a gift from the Class of 2005.
“It's not going to be elaborate, but during spring and early fall, a lot of teachers and students will appreciate having a nice area outside where classes can be held,” said Mandon Lovett '05. “I'm excited,” said Carolyn Gabriel '05. “It's been a fun process and project.”
As interns in Affiliate Giving and co-chairs of the 22-member
Senior Gift Committee, Gabriel and Lovett spent a good deal of
the past year encouraging their classmates to donate to the cause. They worked closely with George Tiggle '98, assistant director in Annual Giving.
Their hard work and powers of persuasion paid off. Sixty-eight percent of the 497 members of the graduating class participated in raising $5,674 for the project.
A political science major from Little Falls, N.Y., Gabriel was captain of the track team and Film Committee chair. Lovett, a political science major from Alexandria, Va., played football and ran track. Both say their work with Affiliate Giving gave them a chance to hone leadership skills, network with alumni and meet new people.
According to Tiggle, the College is eager to get students involved in their class gifts when they are freshman. “We want to get them more excited about philanthropy and the idea of giving back,” he said.
Said Lovett: “We instill the idea of giving early, so when your senior year rolls around, it won't be a surprise. Then, once you graduate, giving will be second nature.”