The Class of 1978 is pleased that students at Meredith College will be able to enjoy a new branded 15-passenger van. Their 50th reunion class gift is to raise $250,000 to purchase two vans, and they were able to raise enough well in advance of their 50th reunion to purchase the first van in January.
The van will be used by Meredith College athletes, to and from athletic events, as well as by student clubs and groups for events, conferences, and other school-approved activities.
The Class of 1978, including Celia Brown Mitchell, Debra Bryant, and Bridgett McMinn, students, student-athletes, and the Institutional Advancement staff gathered in front of Johnson Hall on January 28 for the reveal of the new Meredith-branded van.
“The gift reflects our love for Meredith, our admiration for our students, and our class commitment to this collaborative fundraising effort for our 50th Reunion class gift,” said Mitchell, class gift agent.
Jean Jackson, vice president for college programs, gave words of thanks and appreciation.
“The vision, tenacity, and generosity of making this van available for all students, student athletes, faculty, and staff to use for events, field trips, and conferences is wonderful. This van will be an incredible source of pride for those who are riding around in it,” said Jackson. “Thank you for being the first class, two and a half years ahead of your deadline for your 50th reunion project, to have your gift here for our benefit so far in advance of your reunion. I cannot thank you enough, Meredith cannot thank you enough. All students will benefit from this beautiful gift.”
Mitchell spoke directly to the students in attendance, telling them how pleased the class is with their academic and athletic honors, and they see the development of lifelong friends and leaders in Meredith students, which means a great deal to them.
“We felt like, why would we not want to invest in the future of Meredith students? You all deserve transportation that shows you are going strong,” said Mitchell. “Our work has been focused on impact, results, and initial funding. I would say now that we have the first vehicle, we can hopefully raise the funds for a second van to purchase by our 50th Reunion in 2028. Thank you, and this could not have been done without the support of Institutional Advancement, who helped guide us.”
Fundraising for the 50th reunion class gift begins at their 45th reunion with the goal of raising $250,000 in five years. The class collectively decides on the gift to present to the College.
“The Class of 1978 exemplifies determination in action. The class recognized an immediate student need and committed itself to raising the cash funds needed to purchase the first of two vans for student transportation,” said Tonita Few, strategic giving officer for reunions. 
Student-athletes and coaches are already using the van this semester.
“The Class of 1978 gift brings with it an immediate sense of pride for our student-athletes. Teams are already asking to use the van and love showing it off as they go up and down the highway to the opposing schools,” said Jackie Myers, athletic director. “It also makes them and our coaches feel much safer now that we have a new vehicle with the latest technology and safety features. We are so grateful for the generosity of this class and know that our athletes will enjoy it for years to come.”
Melyssa Allen – News Director
316 Johnson Hall
(919) 760-8087 | Fax: (919) 760-8330 | allenme@meredith.edu