Issue link: http://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/718392
8 Crusader Nation • Fall 2016 3 T he 2015-16 school year will go down in the Holy Cross record books as the first time every graduating student-athlete pledged a gift to the College. There were 148 student-athletes among the senior class, and each one stepped up to support alma mater. Crusaders across campus are viewing the record as just one of several signs of a growing spirit of engagement with Holy Cross Athletics. "100 percent participation in giving by our senior class of student-athletes speaks volumes about the pride and pas- sion they have for the College of the Holy Cross," said Director of Athletics Nathan Pine. "I am very impressed by how they have embraced the importance of paying it forward and creating a legacy at Holy Cross for future classes to follow." "We couldn't be more pleased," said Heather Palmer, director of the Crusader Athletics Fund. "There's an important story behind the numbers. This is not something that commonly happens at our peer schools. Our student-athletes obviously feel a need to give back. They understand the value of the experience they've had on The Hill. And they want to pay it forward." "I think I speak for all of my fellow student-athletes when I say it's been a genuine privilege to spend the last four years on Mount St. James," says Michael Ortlieb '16. "Talk to anyone and you hear the same thing. This is a unique place, both academically and athletically. It's the best of both worlds." "I chose to make a gift," says Kenny Acquah '16, "because of the opportuni- ties that Holy Cross has provided me, and so many others. Holy Cross is one of the only schools that meets 100 percent of the demonstrated financial need of its students. This ultimately gives students of low-income an opportunity to receive the elite education that Holy Cross provides. I also believe that Holy Cross has done its job in prepping me for the next chapter in my life. And I would like to pay it for- ward to those that come after me." The class of 2016 can add this crowning achievement of generosity and class spirit to their accomplishments on the field and in the classroom. By Jack O'Connell '81 A Record Year 100 percent participation in giving by senior student-athletes marks a new level of engagement with College athletics. Student-Athletes in the Class of 2016 gathered for the first annual Senior Brunch during Senior Week.