FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — University of Arkansas class of 2008 voted on their gift to the university last week and the winning project is a mosaic mural to be housed in the Arkansas Union. The piece, to be titled Perspective, will depict several aspects of the university that students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends recognize and admire: Senior Walk, Old Main, the Chi Omega Greek Theatre and the diversity of the campus community.

Nearly 800 students voted this year and approximately 52 percent were in favor of the mosaic gift. The other gift choice was a new program, Razorbikes, which would provide easily accessible alternative transportation - recycled and donated bicycles - for getting around campus and to destinations near campus.

The mosaic mural will cost approximately $8,000 to design and install. It will be a commissioned piece by R. Scott and Neilla Flanagin of Mountain Home.

 “I am extremely excited about the class of 2008’s decision,” said Jerrid P. Freeman, director of the Arkansas Union. “The common area of the union will be greatly enhanced by the beautiful mosaic piece, representing many aspects of our campus that make it truly unique. This year’s graduates will leave a visible mark on our campus by supporting this special project.”

 “Voting on the class gift helps build class unity, identity and spirit,” said Rachel Neeley, assistant director of annual programs in the office of university development. “The class of 2008 is filled with enthusiastic students who are excited about beginning their legacy by giving back to their institution. I would like to extend my appreciation to the staff at the Arkansas Union and to the Class Gift Council who suggested this year’s choices. Both ideas were wonderful and I look forward to more great submissions in the coming years.”

The funds for each class gift are raised through the efforts of student participation and fundraising. The student-run Class Gift Council works throughout the year to spread the word about the vote, the gift selection and to solicit gift support. All students are invited to join the council.

Students will have an opportunity to make their gift in person at several events throughout the year, as well as online or by phone. Class gift representatives will be stationed outside the Arkansas Union from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Nov. 15 and 16. A pancake supper is scheduled for Dec. 5 - Dead Day (the day before final exams begin) - in the Alltel Ballroom in the union.    

Class gifts are an important part of the University of Arkansas as they provide a lasting way for students to have an impact on their university. The tradition dates back to the early 1900s. Early gifts include renovation of the Spoofer’s Stone on Old Main Lawn and the campus entrance sign at the corner of Dickson Street and Arkansas Avenue. More recent gifts include the restoration of the Old Main bell, a bronze memorial sculpture to honor the victims of Sept. 11 and classic pedestrian light posts along the Old Main walk, which are scheduled for installation later this school year.

For more information about joining the Class Gift Council or to make a gift, contact Neeley at rachel@uark.edu or (479) 575-4821.