01
March
2010
|
13:49 PM
America/Los_Angeles

An Evening of Thanks

An Evening of ThanksCSUSM student scholarship recipients were invited to formally meet the people supporting their academic life at the third annual scholarship/donor reception on Thursday, Feb. 25, at the M. Gordon Clarke Field House/University Student Union.  Over 100 students, donors, and campus administrators, faculty and staff filled the room in celebration of the spirit of philanthropy that has positively impacted so many students' lives.Vice President for University Advancement Neal Hoss emceed the event, sharing that he continues to have the pleasure to meet with our donors and to hear the reasons why they support student scholarships. "The reasons are as varied as the donors themselves. But they do have one thing in common - the belief that our students are the best hope we all have for our region's future," said Hoss.Among the students invited to share their story was Seth Tossel, a junior pursuing his nursing degree. Tossell is benefiting from the Assistance League of Inland North County Scholarship fund. "I realize that this is a substantial amount of money and I am very grateful for it," he said. "It is an understatement to say that this support has made a difference in my life at CSUSM and my life in general."Caitlyn Villarreal, a member of the women's cross country team, spoke eloquently about her appreciation to Bob and Ruth Mangrum, long-time friends of Cal State San Marcos who have given generously to athletic scholarships. Villarreal shared her frustration with finding scholarships that were relevant to her and thanked the Mangrums for believing in her and giving her the opportunity to continue forward unimpeded with her education."I wish you could have been on the podium with us when we received our [NAIA] National Championship banner. You have had such an important impact on our entire team," she expressed. In addition to scholarships, the Mangrums have been long-time supporters of CSUSM's athletics program. The Mangrum Track and Field is named for the couple.Manny Calderon, a graduating senior majoring in finance, was the final student to share his heartfelt gratitude for receiving a scholarship from the Elisabeth Crouch Scholarship Program.  Since the fund was established in 2004, over $100,000 in scholarships to students have been awarded.President Haynes noted that "Over the last two decades, CSUSM has been very fortunate to be supported by a community of individuals, corporations, and nonprofit organizations who believe in the campus and its mission to educate the future leaders of our region." For more information on how to make a scholarship donation, contact University Advancement at 760-750-4400.