FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 12, 2006

Contact: Mandy Rey

(662) 329- 7119

 

MUW receives mural from class of 2006

 

            COLUMBUS, Miss. – Mississippi University for Women class of 2006 seniors wanted to leave their mark on campus in a way that students and community members alike could enjoy.

The 2006 class gift has accomplished that by giving the university a new mural for the Speech and Hearing Clinic.

            Class of 2006 senior class officers decided they wanted to show appreciation as well as provide publicity for the clinic on campus and all of the hard work they do for the community.

The class chose to have a mural painted that would feature an outdoor/park theme beneficial and appealing to all ages. A call was put out to interested artists to design and create a mural including these features. Columbus artist, Joni Cuicchi, was chosen based on sample work submitted to the class officers.

            Abby Claypool, 2006 senior class president, said “We [senior class officers] wanted to add color and `life’ to the clinic so children will be excited about coming to therapy.”

            “The mural also creates a situation that will encourage clients to talk about what they see…because the mural provides an opportunity for the clients to talk because many aspects of the mural relate to them including playing and parks,” added Claypool.

            Records show that the class gift program dates back as far as the 1940s. Recent class gifts have included the “Welcome to Columbus” sign on Main Street and a seal for the Cochran Boardroom on campus.

            Financial allocations are made from the university each semester into each class account. Each class receives one dollar per student for each semester to use toward their class gift. Classes also complete a fundraiser during their sophomore year at the Sophomore Sale during Sophomore/Junior Rivalry where sophomores are auctioned off to the juniors.

            Other students involved in the 2006 project included Brittany Claypool, vice president; Deanna Middleton, secretary/treasurer; Lesley Norwood, cheerleader and Kimmie Medina, cheerleader. The project was overseen by Molly Cuicchi Tardy, assistant director of housing services and former class council advisor.

            The class of 2007 has already begun discussing this year’s gift, which they hope to have completed in time for graduation. The 2007 class gift project will be led by senior class president Ashely Teague and Micah White, assistant director of student involvement and current class council advisor.