The Arch, the Chapel Bell, the Founder’s Garden – the history behind these locations resonates with most students, as we have incorporated those traditions into our own experience at the University. Few people, however, recognize the history and tradition behind the sundial on North Campus between the Chapel and the Administration Building.

As the legend goes, Robert Toombs, a University student in the late 1820s, was the most talented scholar the University had seen to date; he also maintained a rogue attitude and cared less for academia than for receiving personal pleasure for practical jokes on campus. The administration, fed up with his attitude, had Toombs expelled in the months prior to graduation – much like Albert Einstein being expelled from his high school class.

On Commencement Day, Toombs climbed an oak tree just outside the Chapel-where the sundial is now located – and began delivering his own commencement speech through the open windows of the Chapel. Compelled by the eloquence and vision of his statement, the chapel audience cleared in order to witness Toombs’ recitation. As the story goes, Toombs went on to serve as Secretary of State of the Confederacy; on his death day, however, the Oak outside the Chapel was stricken by lightning, splitting the trunk and killing the tree.

In Toombs’ memory, the University graduating class of 1908 donated to the University of Georgia a sundial and its marble pedestal on the exact location of the Oak. This year marks the one hundred first anniversary of class gifts to the University of Georgia. Walking through Tate, you’ve probably noticed the plaques lining the wall between Tate Plaza and the Tate Bus Stop, filled with names of graduates.

Many of our friends are struggling to find jobs or are crossing their fingers as graduate school acceptance letters begin to roll in. Many of us will be in the same position next year or the following.

Seniors have the opportunity to preserve the quality of their degree and to ensure that it continues to grow in prestige. Those who are able and willing, consider the University through this year’s Senior Signature plaque as a cause worthy of your time and energy. The Senior Signature campaign is the primary student outlet of the Georgia Fund, which supports the academic mission of the University, including scholarship grants and study abroad opportunities. You can join the Senior Signature campaign through today, for a gift as small as $35.

These days, our class gifts are less about donating campus landmarks than they are about ensuring a sustainable future for the University. Most of us remember well the $100 Spring Fee and understand the great likelihood of temporary fees in the future, we’ve witnessed the 24-hour SLC cut back its hours, and we’ve experienced growth in our class sizes. With the economy falling through, nothing is unaffected, including UGA’s endowment fund and its state-allocated funds. If you’re one of the fortunate few who have a job or can afford a donation, keep Georgia on your mind.

- Connor McCarthy is the Student Government Association president.