(March 5, 2014)

Centenary students celebrate donors, philanthropy

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College joined nearly 100 educational institutions worldwide to participate in the second annual Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day on February 27. The initiative, organized by CASE Affiliated Student Advancement Programs, is designed to increase student understanding of philanthropy.

"We had a wonderful turnout," said Jesse Gilmore '12, Assistant Director of Philanthropy and organizer of the event. "I think it's a testament to our students that so many came out during their mid-terms to thank donors for their scholarships. Someone even asked me 'Where are the donors? I want to meet them!' National Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day is a growing tradition here at Centenary, and certainly an important one."

Institutions from the United States, England, Canada, Australia and other countries participated in the event through various activities, including "thank-a-thons," day-long social media campaigns and student video interviews on what giving means to them. Centenary students wrote over 260 cards to donors thanking them not only for their donations but also their faith in the College and its students:

"Thanks to donors like you, I can attend a unique school with an enriching education and endless opportunities," wrote Catherine Page '17.

"Because of donors like you, I have the opportunity to travel the world and broaden my horizons in every way," wrote Melissa Traver '16.

"I hope that some day I will be able to make a difference in someone's life like you did," wrote Logan Settoon '16.

Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day emphasizes the impact of philanthropists on the sustainability of their institutions and allows students to take a moment and say 'thank you' to donors through letters. Students also recorded their own personal interpretations of what philanthropy means to them and how they are affected by the generosity of philanthropists.

Donations to the Centenary Fund are crucial in ensuring that all students who qualify to attend Centenary are afforded that opportunity. Learn more about how to make a direct impact on the lives of students on Centenary's giving page here.

CASE ASAP provides programming, services and resources in advancement at colleges and universities that are members of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.