March 2013
5T8: 55 years of support
Despite the assertion of the 5T8 year yell that “We are the year of sinners great,” the 55th anniversary class is seen in a different light by the students that have benefitted from their generosity over the years. And 5T8 has certainly always had an eye to the future – since graduation, they have supported student scholarships and green initiatives – helping future generations, and furthering the Colleges environmental goals. This year, in celebration of their 55th reunion the class of 5T8 is raising $55,000 to support the initiatives at Trinity that have always been close to their hearts.
Upon graduation in 1958, the class decided to make a gift to their College -- a scholarship fund, established by the new alumni, to support incoming students. The 5T8 Scholarship is now responsible for awarding $1,000 every other year to a student in need. This year, as part of their reunion gift project, they intend to nearly double the amount in the fund. This scholarship has benefited 17 students through the years -- a quiet but profound hand from one generation of Trinity students to the next.
In addition to the 5T8 scholarship, the class has been instrumental in furthering Trinity’s green initiatives. For their 50th anniversary 5 years ago, 5T8 partnered with the students to fund the St. Hilda's green roof. A beautiful space for students and visitors to enjoy and an energy saving garden which cuts down on energy costs by adding extra insulation.
This year, on top of their scholarship top-up, they have committed to support the restoration of Strachan Hall and renovation of the Trinity kitchen. This project has benefitted our students tremendously; in fact, the students themselves donated $300,000 to the cause. While the restoration of the hall’s original splendor is the most obvious outcome of the project, what appealed to 5T8 is the energy savings achieved through the new kitchen: “student-inputted” food bins, LED lights, Energy Star appliances, induction cook tops, ceiling fans, and a system that captures and recycles heat from the kitchen.
The College is grateful to the tremendous difference 5T8’s support has made.