As seniors approach their departure from Chapel Hill, they should consider giving a small donation to the Senior Campaign. The impacts of student donations have rarely been more significant than they are in 2012, and the importance of private donations will only grow in future years.
As state appropriations for education become increasingly fractional and as University programs become ever more dependent on grants, private donors and research funds for survival, alumni giving has a new reality.
When graduates invest in UNC, future generations benefit. Seniors should take pride in the world-class degree, which past student donors and alumni have helped to ensure for them through their gifts.
The value of a UNC degree is dependent on the school’s current quality — which is increasingly in jeopardy as state funding dwindles. Before turning down the opportunity to give, seniors should consider the value of their diplomas not only today, but in 30 years.
Many universities which have succeeded in attaining sizable alumni support are doing a better job innovating, moving forward and advancing scholarship than their cash-strapped peers.
A good college education is virtually priceless, but it does come with a price tag. As college graduation rates increase and as the job market remains uncertain, graduates rely more than ever on the value of their diplomas to secure jobs. It is important to continue investing in the institution that has invested in us.
Give now, but remember your connection to the University long after your time on the hill has come to a close.
