November 2009

The university family mourns her loss and remembers her family, friends, and the students and families of Yap in prayer.  You are invited to read the full story and post a message on her memorial page.

    
"Scholarships are a great resource to have, especially for those of us who really depend on them!" says Manuela Asaftei.

Originally from Romania, Manuela is a senior at Southern this year.  Through Southern, she traveled as a student missionary to Chuuk, Micronesia where she served as a teacher to 30 children. The 10 months that she spent there humbled her and allowed her to make her mark while building life-long connection.

Manuela was uncertain whether she would be able to return to school because of limited funds, but through hard work and the kindness of others she will be able to complete her Bachelor in Public Relations.

 

You are invited to read more about Manuela and other students and give today to help students like Manuela reach their dreams.

 

Telling stories of how a difference is being made is one of the top priorities in the Advancement Office, which coordinates the brunch.  Many students who receive funds from named scholarships are able to connect and personally thank the individuals or family members who established the fund that is meeting a felt need in their lives.

This year, for the first time, portrait photographs were taken of donors with the students they helped this academic year.  In this picture we see David and Carol Cotton (on the left) and a recipient of their scholarship.

Our thanks to hundreds of Southern alumni and friends who participated in Homecoming Weekend 2009.  It was great to see so many of you again! 

"Attendance was up considerably this year and people seemed to really enjoy the variety of activities scheduled during the four-day reunion," said Evonne Crook, director of alumni relations.

Some highlights included: the All-Steinway Designation celebrations, Die Meistersinger Reunion Concert, and the alumni/staff/student talent show.  Photos from the weekend are being posted throughout the next couple of weeks to the Group Photos section on the alumni website at www.southern.edu/alumni.  Watch for a special Homecoming Weekend photo spread to be featured in the next issue of Columns magazine. 
 
Plan now to attend Homecoming 2010, scheduled for Oct. 28-30.  Honor classes will include 1940, '50, '60, '65, '70, '80, '85, '90, and 2000.  Highlights will include the 40th Anniversary Celebration of McKee Library and the opening of Florida Hospital Hall nursing building.