This year’s graduating class left its mark in SMU history by making a special gift to the university and students. Through the Senior Class Gift campaign, the graduands established the university’s first Graduating Class Scholarship to benefit deserving students.

The cause was championed by a group of graduating students from different SMU schools who undertook to spread the message to their peers. A few even volunteered their time during the academic gown collection period to be on site to encourage everyone to contribute. Graduands who championed the cause included: Anna Haotanto, Jimmy Boh, Stepfanie Cheong, Sharon Chee, Huang Guofeng, Deeraj Jagdish Karnani, Katrina Edillor, Eng Youyi, Louis Lin, Leung Chi Ching, Mohammad Firdhaus Bin Baharom, Aman Rangrass, Poon Baoqin, Dawn Phung, Victor Sim, Wong Wai Hon, Yeo Zhong Yi, and Zheng Renjie.

Due to their efforts and passion, approximately 48% of graduates made a gift to the Graduating Class Scholarship. Parents of graduands and faculty also participated. The combined gifts added up to about $30,000, enough to award three scholarships. The recipients will be announced on Patron's Day 2009.

Thank you very much to those who have contributed to the Graduating Class of 2008 Scholarship. You have kept the SMU Spirit alive! Your generosity and trust in SMU ensure that three deserving students will benefit from an SMU education, like you did.