by Veronica Murillo
Staff Writer
A hot cup of coffee hit the spot and the theme of the Senior Challenge Committee's Coffee Day at the PGH Breezeway Tuesday morning.
"(Coffee Day) gives anyone the opportunity to come up and say, 'Hey, what's this all about' ... so juniors, sophomores and freshmen, who will soon be seniors, can be part of the organization in the future," said Jason Casero, public relations director for the committee.
The committee solicits pledges from graduating University of Houston seniors. Seniors are asked to donate a total of $200 over a period of four years. The committee asks for a donation of $20 before graduation and increases the rate by $20 every year.
Donors can designate where their donations go. The pledges can be applied to the college of their choice, the UH Libraries or the Houston Athletics Foundation.
Seniors confirmed as program donors were rewarded with coffee mugs. The event resulted in $1,000 in pledges.
"I'm not a student, but I'm going to donate my money to show support," said Elwyn Lee, vice president of student affairs.
Lee, who was invited to participate in the event, said just a handful of students attended because the coffee was held during morning class time.
Arthur Smith, chancellor of the UH System and president of UH, took time to speak with students individually at the coffee.
"We would like very much to involve students early after graduation," Smith said. "They're doing an excellent job."
Senior Challenge is presenting another Coffee Day at which a local band will perform, 10:30 a.m. to noon April 17 at the Satellite.