Close but No Cigar (4/10) To the Editor: As Student Alumni Representatives, we write this letter in response to Ben Podell’s article, “Close but no Cigar.” While we appreciate and acknowledge the thoughts of Mr. Podell, we would like to point out that there are several flaws in his argument. Where shall we start? The decision to donate the Senior Gift was not decided by ‘higher-ups.’ We, as representatives of our class, came to a consensus and decided to donate the money to Paresky Commons. We are excited by our choice because we feel we can make a difference and we know many years from now members of our class will be proud to walk into Paresky Commons and see “the Class of 2009” listed on the plaques in the lobby. Granted, not all of the Seniors are in agreement with our decision, but given the high percentage of Seniors who have donated, it is clear many of them are. For those Seniors who do not want to designate their Senior gift to Paresky Commons, they have the option of donating their money to other causes. Several students have chosen to designate their Senior gift towards Athletics, Financial Aid, support for the faculty, and the arts. Secondly, the Senior Gift is not purely about the money raised. It is meant to symbolize our appreciation for the great education that has been afforded to us. It is a way for the Class of 2009 to leave our mark on the school and show our gratitude. The Senior class was “under the impression that more money was needed to support [our] dining hall” because more money IS needed to support our dining hall. To date, the money raised for Paresky Commons is only a bit more than half of what is actually needed. Despite the deficit that the school has to pay off, Paresky opened on schedule providing us every day with a variety of meal choices and a beautiful space in which to eat and gather. Compared to many schools, we have an impeccable dining hall and great meal choices. Instead of complaining, why not appreciate all the work and dedication that has gone into making this dining hall a beautiful and welcoming place for us to have our meals each and every day? Cynics exist in every generation in every society. Mr. Podell’s negativity needlessly marred a joyous occasion, a time when the Senior Class of 2009 came together and set a new school record for percent participation in the class gift. When you donate ten million dollars to an institution, Mr. Podell, we promise to build you an ice sculpture. And, I doubt anyone will be complaining. Kenny Gould ’09 and Krystle Manuel-Countee ’09, on behalf of the Student Alumni Representatives.
