This gift is a tangible expression of our pride in having graduated and our respect, gratitude and affection for the university that afforded us that opportunity. - Erica Maslanka, Senior Class Gift Intern

San Diego State gives its students many things: the education needed to succeed in our world, the promise of a rewarding future, memories that will last a lifetime. And in May, SDSU gave out more than 9,000 diplomas. But before these graduating seniors leave campus, they’re giving something back. Through the Senior Class Gift, the Aztec class of 2005 came together to show appreciation for their university, commemorate their time on the Mesa and make a gift to their alma mater.

“It’s a tradition that dates back to 1911,” said Senior Class Gift Intern Erica Maslanka. “This gift is a tangible expression of our pride in having graduated and our respect, gratitude and affection for the university that afforded us that opportunity.” It appears that many of San Diego State’s graduating class echo these sentiments, since this year’s alums have already rallied to donate more than $17,000 to the fund.

Perhaps this outstanding response stems from the benefits this year’s Senior Class Gift Committee has offered its donors. Those who contributed at least $20.05 to this year's gift, for example, received a "Senior Spirit Card" with the SDSU Alma Mater song and an embroidered Aztec logo they could wear on their graduation cap. Also, for the first time, donors will have a voice in deciding what their gift will be. While some have voted to beautify the sunken grass area between Exercise and Nutritional Sciences and Don Powell Theatre, others are hoping to improve the Scripps Cottage patio and grill area. Upon the campaign’s conclusion, the option which receives the most votes will be funded, thereby serving as the legacy of the Aztec class of 2005.

Making this gift remains the campaign’s central focus, yet this year’s Senior Class Gift Committee also wanted to make the senior class’ final semester at SDSU their most memorable one. According to Mike Minjares, SDSU Annual Fund Officer and Senior Class Gift Staff Representative, “Through the ‘100 Days to Commencement’ countdown, and events like Gradfest, this year’s committee organized a number of activities to benefit our upcoming graduates. They also co-sponsored several events, like the financial workshops during Senior Week, to help students prepare for the transition into the real world.”

This year’s gift will join previous Senior Class Gifts, such as the landmark sign donning the new SDSU logo at the gateway to campus on College Avenue, donated jointly by the classes of 2002, 2003 and 2004. Other recent gifts, like the Aztec Calendar in front of Piedra Del Sol and the Mediterranean Garden by Hepner Hall, are sprinkled across campus, adding to the beauty and history of the university.