Briefly speaking: Seniors encouraged to give back

As a senior, Wendy Wang knows the value of her educational experience and the places it will take her in the future. She's asking other seniors to give back to UC Davis -- in the amount of $20.08 -- to provide other students the same life-changing opportunities.

"For the price of two movie tickets, seniors can make an investment in students' education," says Wang, a double major in English and psychology from San Jose, who serves as coordinator for the Senior Class Challenge. "I took on a lot of loans, so I understand their financial concerns. But even a small gift can go a long way."

As a student caller for the telephone outreach program, Wang has worked with the Senior Class Challenge since coming to UC Davis, asking seniors to contribute funds to the college or school that has provided them with so much or to the UC Davis annual fund. This year, students can double their money thanks to a matching challenge from a group of alumni and friends of UC Davis. Parents can also give in honor of their student.

A Facebook site has been set up encouraging senior donors to create their own homemade signs declaring their generosity to their almost alma mater. (Facebook registration/login may be required).

With more than 3,000 seniors graduating in June, they have the opportunity to make a significant impact, says Cam Stoufer, director of annual and special gifts.

A tradition of philanthropy

Stoufer points out that student philanthropy isn't new to UC Davis. The Activities and Recreation Center, Schall Aquatic Center, and new multipurpose stadium were all supported in part by student-directed funds. The Senior Class Challenge was developed in the early 1980s through the annual giving program to encourage participation and build a tradition of philanthropy for students and young alumni.

In the past six years, the gift has been applied to discretionary funds that allow greater flexibility and support of university programs. All gifts will help support UC Davis and may go toward student scholarships or fellowships; new and upgraded classrooms, labs and residence halls; or other expenditures that help the university be a leader in teaching and discovery.

"We hope this begins a lifetime of philanthropy to UC Davis," Stoufer says. "The relationship with one's alma mater is truly special and like no other."

Gifts can be made online at the challenge's Web site: http://seniorchallenge.ucdavis.edu/