Point Loma Nazarene University celebrated the completion of 76 percent of the school year on Wednesday, March 25. More than a benchmark toward summer break, the day recognizes the fact that what students pay toward tuition only covers approximately 76 percent of his or her education costs. In fact, never in the history of the university has tuition covered the entire cost of a student's education.

This "tuition freedom," and the remaining 24 percent of the school year, is covered by gifts from alumni and other donors, churches, foundations, corporations, and additional revenue sources. Established in 2008 by the Alumni Association, this year marked the 7th annual Tuition Freedom Day. In partnership with Student Senate, the Associated Student Body Board of Directors, Sodexo, and Bartell Hotels, the celebration aims to increase awareness of the generous gifts offered to PLNU students and provides an opportunity for students to express their gratitude.

"Whether or not we realized it, each one of us who attended this university was helped by others who gave to subsidize the cost of our education," said Sheryl Smee, executive director of Alumni Relations at PLNU. "This has become an annual event to highlight the difference made in students' lives, through generous alumni support, and the impact we can make in the lives of countless future students through our faithful giving."

Students visited the Activities and Recreation Center after chapel to write a thank you note to donors, receive the latest TFD t-shirt, designed by PLNU senior Hannah Siu, and enjoy complimentary refreshments provided by Sodexo. Visit PLNU's Flickr to see pictures from Tuition Freedom Day 2014 and watch the 2015 video.

"Thank you so much for your contribution to my education," said Emily Strannigan, Class of 2015. "I wouldn't be able to be here without you. Because of you, I'm graduating in May with my B.S. in dietetics! Thanks again!"

For more information, visit PLNU's website.
--Point Loma Nazarene University