Putting Students First: Centenary College Scholarship Challenge Continues with 2:1 Match Up to $1 Million

Shreveport, LA, June 12, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Through a series of significant changes at Centenary College this year, from a shift to Division III athletics to a consolidation and repositioning of the academic program, many alumni and friends have continued to be generous supporters of the 185-year-old liberal arts college.

“The importance of Centenary to our graduates, supporters, and the overall community cannot be overstated,” commented Dr. David Rowe, Centenary College President. “Everyone understands the current economic climate and the impact it has had on higher education in general and Centenary in particular. But our core mission to develop students who are wise, caring, moral leaders continues to resonate with all who love Centenary, regardless of their reaction to the moves we have made to insure the future of the institution.”

While donations to U.S. colleges and universities are lower than they have been in 50 years according to a survey conducted by the New York-based Council for Aid to Education, Centenary College officials remain positive as the College has actually seen an increase in donations, bucking the national trend.

“It’s a more challenging fundraising environment than it was a few years ago,” said Fred Landry, Senior Director for Annual Giving. “But we’re still experiencing success. Our gifts are steadily improving this year, thanks to a rebounding economy, the loyal support of our alumni and friends, and their belief in the mission of Centenary College.”

Recognizing the need for additional support for Centenary and for families who are seeking outstanding, yet affordable colleges, President Rowe has called upon Centenary supporters to increase their annual giving in support of student scholarships.

Two of Centenary’s long-time leaders, Trustees Bill Anderson ’70 and Ed Crawford joined forces to respond by Putting Students First. Putting Students First: The Anderson-Crawford Scholarship Challenge matches all donations to the Centenary Fund for Student Scholarships 2-to-1 up to $1 million prior to the end of the school’s fiscal year June 30 and could mean up to $3 million in scholarship support for Centenary students.

With more than 95 percent of Centenary students receiving some type of financial aid, donations to the College’s scholarship fund are crucial in providing the resources necessary to offer the Centenary experience to all qualified students.

“I think support of Centenary student scholarships meets a vital community need,” commented Bill Anderson. “Centenary means so much to our city and region. I am pleased to be a part this effort.”

”Centenary’s mission is educating students,” said Ed Crawford. “Bill and I both believe strongly, as so many, in the significance of College to the Shreveport-Bossier area. I hope alumni and friends of the College will join in this initiative to Put Students First.”

Learn more about the Putting Students First scholarship challenge

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About Centenary College of Louisiana
Centenary College is a private, four-year arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1825, it is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Centenary is one of 16 colleges and universities constituting the Associated Colleges of the South and has been recognized as “One of the Best 371 Colleges” by the Princeton Review and one of “America’s Best Colleges” and one of “America’s Best Private Colleges” by Forbes.com. In 2008 Centenary College celebrated 100 years in Shreveport and Bossier City.