Alumni group warms spirits with chocolate

Students got a chance to take a break from studying for midterms Feb. 24 and enjoy a mug of hot chocolate, thanks to the Alumni Association. In addition to a free mug and a hot beverage, the association offered praise and attention for the hard work and support graduates dedicate to the University of Detroit Mercy.

"The Alumni Association is working hard," said organizer Eileen Pawlowski, a former recipient of the UDM Commitment to Excellence Award.

Walking around campus, you may have noticed large red bows have on various rooms and equipment. They designate improvements that were made possible by alumni.

Such places include the basement of the Student Center and the Neal Shine Media Center, the home of The Varsity News.

"We hope to have more areas next year," she said.

In the fiscal year 2008, 6,902 alumni donated over $3 million to the University of Detroit Mercy, she said.

Not only have alumni provided the students with more areas and equipment, they are also responsible for many scholarships.

The university's ranking in U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Colleges" depends partly on donations made by alumni.

The Alumni Association has several more events in the coming months.