Johnnies at Convocation
It’s not often that Saint John’s issues an urgent plea for support – we typically send a genteel annual request or reminder for the Student Fund – but this year is different. These are not ordinary times.
The other day I was talking with an alumnus about Saint John’s crucial need for philanthropic support. He said, “I get it. My son (who is also an alumnus) described this to me as a Dunkirk moment. This is Saint John’s hour of need.” Indeed, it is. I can’t think of a better way to describe it.
This spring, to ensure the safety of our students, faculty and staff due to the COVID–19 outbreak, Saint John’s and Saint Ben’s moved all classes online. Students returned to their homes, and like most other colleges and universities, Saint John’s did the right thing: we issued prorated refunds for room and board and academic fees. The total price tag was more than $3 million each at both Saint John’s and Saint Ben’s.
Despite Saint John’s fiscal strength and stability, this revenue shortfall, coupled with an enrollment challenge for the coming year which requires a substantial increase in scholarship and financial aid to meet the rising need of students and their families who are facing economic hardship, presents an immediate and unprecedented financial challenge. Simply put, the future of Saint John’s depends on a generous outpouring of charitable support from our alumni, parents, and friends.
Each year we ask for your support to the Student Fund, which provides scholarships and financial aid for our students. This year that need is more critical than ever. With this in mind, we urge you to contribute to this year’s Student Fund. I’m fully aware that the past few months have been extremely challenging for all, particularly due to the economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak. That being said, if you are in a position to help us out, we would greatly appreciate it. You may make your gift online on our secure Saint John's website, or if you wish, you can send your donation by mail. The deadline for this year’s Student Fund is Tuesday, June 30.
Thanks for your consideration of this request, and thanks again for your ongoing support of Saint John’s, particularly during this most challenging time.
With your support, I’m confident that this will be our finest hour.
Warm regards,
Rob Culligan '82
Vice President for Advancement