The University of Oklahoma Student Alumni Association was founded in 1985 by a group of students, joined with the OU Alumni Association. During the organization's 30-year history, it has undergone many changes, completed countless events, and created great traditions still practiced at the University. From its original purpose, forming a body of students interested in the good name and ambassadorship of the University, the Student Alumni Association has grown, encompassing much more with an expanded mission. Today, the organization includes the Class Gift, OU Ring, Alumni Relations, funding for student groups' activities and Sowers Club.
SAA provides a connection between students and alumni in order to promote awareness of the OU Alumni Association, inspire future commitment, and sow a legacy.
Since 1906, the graduating class has presented a gift to the University that enhances the campus community and leaves a tangible marker of their time on campus. Over the years, Class Gifts have created such campus landmarks as the Cherokee Gothic arches that welcome visitors to Parrington Oval and the Asp Avenue, Elm Avenue and Brooks Street entrances, and the Centennial Arches, a 100th birthday gift to OU from the Class of 1990, which stand sentinel at the entrance of Van Vleet Oval; the OU Reflecting Pool at The Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, originally a gift of the Class of 1934 and revived by the classes of 1960 and 2000; and the fountain and pool between Oklahoma Memorial Union and Monnet Hall, a gift of the Class of 1935.
The Student Alumni Association and the Class Gift Committee have the honor of facilitating opportunities for graduating students to give back to their alma mater that gave so much to them over their collegiate experiences. The class gift gives graduating students an opportunity to leave a legacy for future generations, and is a permanent reminder of their time at the University of Oklahoma.
The 2016 Class Gift will add to OU's national reputation as one of America's most picturesque campuses. Located just east of Bizzell Library, near the Peggy V. Helmerich Gardens, this year's Class Gift will fund three inviting red benches, a relaxing fountain, and a newly-planted tree near the X-Hedges. This green space will serve as a relaxing and reflective area for students, alumni and visitors who want to take a break after a tough class, grab lunch with a friend or simply enjoy the beauty of campus. Recognition of the Class of 2016 will also be seen through a memorial plaque.
Your gift is a reflection of your time here at the University of Oklahoma. Your donation to the Class Gift is a chance for you to say "thank you" to the University and to leave a legacy. Any gift, big or small, shows gratitude for the education that you have received and support of future Sooners who will follow. Because this University has instilled excellence within you, we hope you will take the time to give. Every gift creates a legacy. Help us leave ours!
You will receive a Twitter shoutout from @OUAlumni who has a follow count of over 10,000!
Receive your very own OU Alumni hat featuring the state of Oklahoma on the front.