Two classes honored for support

Dave Johnson, vice president for advancement, presents the Ryland Cup to Alec Smith, '06.

Thirty years separate the classes of 1976 and 2006, but both classes share a strong desire to support their alma mater. During Reunion Weekend, the Class of 1976 received the James B. Thomas Trophy for making the largest class reunion gift, and the senior class won the Josiah Ryland Cup for having the highest class-giving participation rate.

The Class of 1976, which was celebrating its 30th reunion, raised a total of $566,992 as of May 15. As of the same date, 62.5 percent of the Class of 2006 had donated to their senior gift campaign called “A Living Legacy.”

The Class of 2006 broke the record for the highest senior gift participation rate, 61.5 percent, which was set 19 years ago. More than 35 of the 410 senior donors this year gave at the Young Rector’s level, gifts of $250 or more. The seniors designated their more than $20,000 in gifts to 70 different departments, clubs and organizations on campus.

“These two classes exemplify what it truly means to be a Richmond Spider—generosity, commitment and service,” said Dave Johnson, vice president for advancement. He noted that this year’s reunion classes collectively raised more than $3 million to support the University.