Colleges Requesting Money, Rather than Gifts, from Senior Class

According to a May 14, 2008 USA Today article, an increasing number of colleges across the country are encouraging their graduating senior class to donate money, rather than a traditional "class gift." Financial contributions are seen as more beneficial to the college than tangible items (for example, fountains or benches) because the funds can be used where they are most needed to help cover institutional expenses. A possible additional future benefit to the college is that the graduating seniors may begin to develop the habit of giving, which they might continue once they become financially established alumni.

The article is available at the USA Today Web site.