TFAA—Program Development

Throughout the years a number of programs have been initiated and developed to increase alumni awareness and involvement with the Alumni Association. Some were terminated due to lack of alumni interest or changes in trends or administration goals, while others continue today.

• 1950’s, 1960’s, 1980‘s, 1990’s—National and International Alumni Clubs, LINKS (“Leaders in a Network for Key Students”), SOAR (“Student Organization for Alumni Relations”), City Chapters.

• 1960’s “Loyalty Fund” – a program to provide Christmas bonuses to faculty and staff members.

• 1996 – 2002 “Alumni Child” scholarships were offered for $500 per year ($250 per semester).

One program that has been successful with continued interest and support is the Alumni Scholarship program that was started in 1993. Today there are several scholarships offered by the Alumni Association with opportunities for expansion.

Upon learning of a roughly hand-carved commitment made on a large stone laying in the woods by the falls, Dr. Wayne Gardner asked that the stone be brought down to Grace Chapel. During the fall 2007 Convocation chapel, he challenged the students to make a similar commitment that an unknown former student made many years ago. It simply read "I will Lord." Countless numbers of students, faculty, and staff wrote their commitment on stones with were placed in a "Garden of Commitment" outside the Administration Building. It is a tremendous visible reminder to all who pass by of commitments to be obedient.