To show some love and appreciation for the hard work of our graduates, and to take a little of the sting out of the cancelled Commencement ceremony, the College is mailing out gift boxes to every member of the Class of 2020.
The gift box contains a Siena logo faux fur blanket generously donated by locally-based Pretty Rugged, a mortarboard tassel, keepsake photo frame from Student Life, diploma cover, graduation program, and a letter from President Christopher Gibson, ’86 Ph.D.
“Nothing – nothing – can ever take away what you have achieved. The degree you earned and the memories you made here at Siena will illuminate your entire life,” the letter reads. “I’m proud of what you have accomplished, and I encourage you to push forward to meet the challenges we all face today.”
Pretty Rugged’s award-winning blankets have been featured on Good Morning America and The Talk, and their company’s pet blanket was featured as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in the 2018 Christmas edition of her magazine.
News10 and other local media stopped by to cover the packing operation. The boxes will be arriving in graduates’ homes in the coming weeks.
“We'll continue to plan for a future in-person celebration for these special graduates, but until then we hope these fun gift boxes will bring a smile to the Class of 2020 and let them know that their Siena family couldn't be prouder of all they've accomplished and endured.”
Lynn Rogers '93, director of academic programs, coordinator of the College's annual Commencement ceremonies
Members of the Class of 2020 offer a lively and poignant look back through their four years on campus in the recently debuted Class of 2020 reflection video.
