A chance to leave a print on UNI

The McLeod Center, the UNI-Dome, the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center and the Campanile all are campus landmarks with a commonality many may not realize. They would not exist without the generous donations of students, faculty and alumni of the University of Northern Iowa. 
   
There are many ways that people can make contributions to UNI, but the annual Student Challenge is one of the biggest philanthropic events to take place on campus.  Beginning in 1881 as the Senior Challenge, fourth-year students decided to give back to UNI in honor of all that the school had given them. 
   
In 2007, the Senior Challenge became the Student Challenge, giving each student on campus the opportunity to support UNI.
   
Each year students come together to form the Student Gift Committee.  It is this group that decides how the  donations will be spent and what events will take place.  Past student gifts have included donations to the Campanile fund, the sculpture in the lobby of the Strayer-Wood Theater, a bench and arbor in the Memorial Garden behind Maucker Union, a rose garden and a panther statue and pond in the Memorial Garden.
   
“I think being charitable to the school is a great opportunity to show your immense love and concern for UNI,” said freshman Tad Ruther.
   
This year the Student Gift Committee has decided to dedicate the 2009 Student Challenge to raising money for scholarships.  The scholarships will be awarded to qualified UNI students in the fall semester of 2009 and spring semester of 2010.
   
This year’s challenge will also be a competition between the colleges of UNI.  The college that contributes the most to the scholarship funds will be acknowledged through a commemorative plaque in the Memorial Garden.
   
This Student Challenge is also a partner of  the Department of Residence in a puzzle piece program.  Students can purchase a paw print for $1 at Essentials, Biscottis and the 23rd Street Market to benefit the Student Challenge.  Students can sign their names on the paw print that is then posted on a display wall in the store. 
   
“The Student Challenge is encouraging the students of today to provide a better future for the students of tomorrow,” said Krystal Campbell, Student Gift committee chair.  “Without this program, students would not realize the impact private giving has on this campus and how students today need to carry on this tradition of giving.”
   
On April 20, the Student Gift Committee will be hosting an event called “Pawpsicles on the Plaza.” Students can come for free popsicles, live music and information about the tradition of giving. 

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