Celebrating the Donors Who Celebrate the Students
On Saturday, October 23, the stained-glass elegance of the popular new Grace restaurant in Portland was the fine setting for a gathering of 80 generous supporters and friends of Saint Joseph’s College at the President’s Society Dinner.
The President’s Society is a group of dedicated individuals and businesses that contribute to the Saint Joseph’s College Annual Fund and other college projects. Historically, President’s Society members contribute roughly one-third of each year’s Annual Fund. According to President Joe Lee, “These are flexible funds that allow us not only to carry out normal activities but to respond to unexpected urgent needs. Our President’s Society donors make a significant difference in the quality of a Saint Joseph’s education for all students –on campus and online – and the future of our institution. We are so grateful to them.”
During dinner, President Lee spoke of the highlights of the past year, including the establishment of the Mercy Center for Community Service, Leadership and Learning and the recent enrollment growth in the online Graduate & Professional Studies division.
Board of Trustees Chairman and President of Webber Energy Fuels Michael Shea ’72 also thanked guests for their incredible support of Saint Joseph’s, noting that Saint Joseph’s is moving toward its Centennial Celebration in 2012, anticipating a second 100 years of friendship and support.
To round out the evening’s program, senior sports management major Shakira LaFond of Brooklyn, N.Y., spoke on behalf of students, who are the beneficiaries of generous support: “The college’s core values serve as a model for the ideal citizen and, most importantly, the student,” said LaFond. “…I hope that the compassion, faith, excellence, integrity, respect, community and justice that Saint Joseph’s College designates as its Core Values continue to enrich the lives of the current students who are in attendance, as well as the students of the future.”
