Senior classes since ’89 have left their marks on campus Since 2001, graduates, brides and grooms, students and prospective students, and returning alumni have all gravitated to “The Rock” in front of Old Main. A gift from that year’s graduating class, The Rock engraved with the original Mercyhurst College seal has arguably been the most popular photo spot on campus. It got some serious competition this year when members of the Class of 2016 donated a new campus landmark. Their six-foot bronze anchor, installed between the Audrey Hirt Academic Center and Zurn Hall, represents the strength and determination of Lakers everywhere. Since 1989, each Mercyhurst graduating class has left behind a special gift to its alma mater, a tradition that seems to grow stronger each year. Lindsay Cox Frank ’12 ’14M, director of alumni engagement, works with each class to choose a project, raise funds and leave a tangible reminder of their time here. “Students today, more than ever, are focking toward the committee, wanting to be involved, and wanting to support Mercyhurst,” she said. “We have developed a strong culture of giving among students and a sense of tradition in giving back.” This year’s seniors plan to add an after-hours cofee bar to Hammermill Library’s 24/7 lounge – itself a gift from the Class of 2008.
2007 Multi-purpose court
2001 Welcome rock
Twenty-eight classes have now raised more than $600,000 to fund their gifts, and the impact can be seen all over campus.
• Some classes memorialized people who were special during their time here, like the Class of 1997, which created Munson Plaza in honor of Robert “Mr. Help” Munson ’94, and the Class of 2005, which gave the Sr. Damien Spirit Bell to remember one of the Lakers’ most ardent fans. • Many classes added campus amenities, from a multipurpose court and park in the Briggs-Lewis residential area (2007) to the concession stand in the Mercyhurst Athletic Center (2015). • Some seniors added touches of Mercy spirit, like the stained glass window in the Mercy Heritage Room (1989) and the Mercy Cross in the lobby of the Hirt Academic Center (2002).
1992 Student Union gazebo
1989 Stained glass window in Mercy Heritage Room
A few Senior Class Gifts are highlighted here. To view the complete list, visit hurstalumni.org/senior-class-gift .
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