The recent article which focused on the Believe in BG initiative and student philanthropy, (“Seniors urged to ‘Believe in BG’,” Feb. 29), was extremely meaningful to me on a very personal level.

I received my undergraduate degree from the University in 1980, and during spring semester of my senior year, made a gift to my Senior Challenge.

The day I received my diploma, I had $5.21 in my bank account and, like many students today, had accumulated a hefty student loan debt.

Also, much like today, the United States economy was in a recession and employment prospects were tenuous at best.

Still, most members of my senior class made a gift or pledge to the University to show their appreciation for the education and experiences they had received and as an investment for the benefit of future students.

My small gift many years ago and the subsequent gifts I have made to my beloved alma mater are the most meaningful investments I have ever made.

Currently, as a volunteer director of the BGSU Foundation Inc., I have the privilege and opportunity to regularly witness the generosity of donors who make gifts of all amounts and who also donate time and expertise to benefit University students.

I know firsthand the enormous impact of these gifts in the daily lives and experiences of our students.

I applaud the BG News for the exposure given to this important initiative, and I encourage all seniors to “Believe in BG” by making a gift or pledge in support of future Falcons and as an investment in our University.

Once a Falcon, always a Falcon!

— Theresa Popp Braun,

Chair-Elect

BGSU Foundation, Inc.