Friday, Dec 4, 2015
New website includes stories of why people give to Rider, and why it matters
As the holiday season approaches, Rider University wishes to acknowledge and thank the many alumni, friends, faculty, staff and students who have given both financial and volunteer support in the past fiscal year to Rider.
This year, for the first time ever, their names can be found in an online version of the Honor Roll of Donors. This approach helps Rider continue its commitment to sustainability while allowing the University to publicly acknowledge every individual, group or corporation who has made a gift.
The Honor Roll website, which can be found at www.rider.edu/hrod, also features seven profiles of donors of various levels, including first-time givers, dedicated patrons and foundations. Students offer personal expressions of gratitude for the gifts that have helped make it possible for them to pursue their education at Rider. The site also features two thank you videos made by the students on the Lawrenceville and Princeton campuses.
"I would like to thank all of our donors for giving to a University that believes in the voice of the student body," says Student Government Association President Ryan Hopely '17, who is also a Bonner Scholar, resident advisor and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity member. He views his ability to focus on his studies and remain an active member of the student community as a direct result of this year's giving.
Sharon Twaddell, who gave this year to the Peter A. and Elizabeth S. Cohn Foundation, is not a Rider alumna, but she is the proud parent to David Grossman, who attends Westminster Choir College. “Everyone should have the opportunity to follow his or her passions, but that can only happen if others support the College,” she says. “In addition to helping to run the University, gifts allow students a great musical education, the chance to make lifelong friendships and, maybe most importantly, the ability to be part of an amazing family.”
In his letter to alumni and friends, President Gregory Dell'Omo also expresses his gratitude. "Our hope is that students leave the University not only with an excellent understanding of their field of study, but as better human beings — prepared and excited to be leaders of tomorrow. Your gift helps make that lofty ideal a reality. Thank you."
To read the stories or find your name on the list, visit www.rider.edu/hrod.