Torch, Fall 2006

28 TORCH / Fall 2006 What a Difference One Gift Makes! I nterest in attending Cedarville University is at near-record levels. This past fall, 2,200 high school seniors submitted applications, yet only one-third were able to accept admission. Why? “Lack of financial aid,” to quote students who declined our offer of admission and selected another school instead. For many, Cedarville was their preferred college, but their personal and family resources fell short of covering the cost of attendance. Thankfully, scholarship gifts are making a difference. Jacinda Gillette is a junior social work major from Covington, Va. She grew up in a pastor’s family that valued Christian education but did not have adequate resources to afford it. She shared, “It would have been easy to worry about money, but I knew my God was faithful and able. He has proven that He goes above and beyond what I could ever ask or imagine.” Generous, often sacrificial scholarship gifts from alumni, parents, friends, and trustees were a part of God’s unique provision for Jacinda. And, what a difference those gifts have made!   “I am being molded into the likeness of Christ and equipped as a social worker to do life well,” Jacinda wrote with appreciation. “I am able to be at Cedarville where I am challenged in everything — from my academic pursuits to my personal relationships to my spiritual journey.” Through Jacinda’s life and testimony, God’s Kingdom is being furthered. Students like Jacinda are many. They sense God’s call on their lives to be at Cedarville. They have a heart for ministry but need the help of others to make their educational experience at Cedarville a reality. Without question, more student financial aid is needed.  In fact, Cedarville University is committed to increasing donor-funded scholarships by 20 percent annually. It’s an ambitious goal, but one that is both necessary and worthwhile. No gift is too large and no gift is too small when it comes to helping students experience the best of Christian higher education at Cedarville.   Call 1-800-766-1115 or visit www.cedarville.edu / financialpartners to make a contribution that will help ensure students like Jacinda secure a quality educational experience at Cedarville.