3Ls set record for giving

Graduating students have set a record participation rate for the USC Law Class Gift.

More than 175 graduates supported the campaign, bringing the participation rate to 80 percent to beat last year's 64 percent. Students made a large number of pledges during the final week of classes, pushing up the participation rate by more than 25 percent in those five days alone.

"We started off a little slower than we had hoped, but we have been so proud and overwhelmed with the support and commitment of our classmates to this program," said Rosi Yoo, a third-year student and co-chair of the Class Gift Committee.

"I am so excited that our participation is not only the highest it has ever been, but it rivals the rates of the top 10 schools in the country," she said. "I don't think words can express how proud I am to be a part of the Class of 2006."

The most important aspect of the Class Gift is participation, signaling that the Class of 2006 truly valued its experience at USC Law, says Eric Wang, associate director of graduate relations.

"It signals their support and their enjoyment of their time, of the programs that meant a lot to them while they were here," Wang said. "It's an important sign for the next generation of students who come here to see that our participation rate is very strong, to get students to consider applying to and attending USC Law."

Graduating students who have not yet made a pledge still have time to participate. Gifts large or small may be designated to any law school organization, including the 2006 Scholarship Fund, the Public Interest Law Foundation, the Hale Moot Court Honors Program, or any journal or clinical program. Unrestricted gifts will be used to cover unmet needs.

"Many students also are pledging in honor of people who have supported them through their years at law school, or in honor of those who have inspired them as they get through their time here, day by day," Yoo said.

Those who participate in the Class Gift will be included in the Honor Roll of Donors, to be distributed at the commencement brunch, where the gift will be presented.