For the first time, the CUNY SPS Class Gift Campaign will be student-led, with Student Association co-chairs Lennyn Jacob and Leonard Blades leading the campaign’s communication plan. The Class Gift Campaign, initially started by Associate Director of Student Life Anthony Sweeney in 2019, seeks to raise funds for CUNY SPS students in need, one donation at a time.
Donations to the campaign will help current and future students cover their tuition costs through the CUNY SPS Emergency Fund, as well as the Alumni Legacy Scholarship. The Emergency Fund is a short-term assistance program for students facing financial hardships like food insecurity, homelessness, illness and other emergencies, according to CUNY SPS Alumni Relations Manager Nidia Cordova. The Alumni Legacy Scholarship, founded by two-time CUNY SPS graduate Tye Brown, offers financial assistance to students who received their undergraduate degree at CUNY SPS and returned for their graduate degree, Cordova explained.
The donations will come with matching gifts that will be unlocked as certain milestones are reached in honor of the Class of 2025. The suggested donation of $25 will give student donors a graduation badge with the words, “I GAVE, CLASS OF 2025.” Donors will also have their names commemorated on the School’s “Virtual Wall,” and they will receive a copy of the CUNY SPS Foundation Annual Report featuring their names. Lastly, a donation will establish a legacy in the donors’ alma mater while inspiring others to give back.
As of May 8, the campaign has raised $1805, with matching gifts from the School unlocked at 85, 170, and 400 donors. 49 more donors are needed to reach the first milestone of 85 donors.
If you’re unable to give $25 or more, smaller donations are also accepted by contacting Cordova directly at 646-664-8661 or [email protected].
Lennyn Jacob, who is graduating this spring with her BA in Disability Studies, said that co-leading the campaign leaves a lasting legacy.
“I wanted to lead and contribute to this graduating class gift campaign by donating to the Emergency Student Grant Fund because it was important to me that we leave a legacy to the CUNY SPS community,” Jacob said. “A legacy of philanthropy that lets current students know that despite life’s challenges, we see, understand, and support each other through not just the struggles of our academic journey but through the successes our sacrifices bring.”
Leonard Blades, who is pursuing his MA in Disability Studies, felt the need to give back as a way of showing his appreciation for the education and support he’s received at CUNY SPS.
“I believe it was vital to give back to the Alumni Legacy Scholarship because it will allow future adult learners at CUNY SPS the opportunity to continue pursuing and enhancing their education within their desired degrees,” Blades said. “CUNY SPS provided me with a rich education, [and] I feel fortunate to have the chance to give back so that others may experience the same.”
