THE SCARBOROUGH SOCIETY

The Scarborough Society of the Shepherd University Foundation, begun in the spring of 2002, marked its first year of operation at its June 19, 2003 board meeting. President Ray Alvarez proclaimed the first year as "an excellent start." He praised the work of the 15-member board, listing among the accomplishments the establishment and approval of the by-laws, setting of organizational values and goals, coordination of a successful gala event, recruitment of 166 new members, and accumulation of over $50,000 in contributions. In addition, the Society hosted receptions for guest authors and artists and added a newsletter to its list of benefits for members.

Having raised over $200,000 during its six-year history, the 190-member Scarborough Society can be very proud of its accomplishments. In reviewing its progress, Society President Ray Alvarez notes: "We have been able to enhance the library's program with computers for the students, books, periodicals, and needed reference materials. Equally important, we are providing for future enhancements by creating over $70,000 of endowments for the library program and faculty excellence as well as providing student financial help with a $2,500 annual scholarship. This is all possible through our membership dues and the success of our annual gala fundraiser. It is gratifying to see this organization do so much in such a short time."

An annual bus trip to places of interest is hosted by the Society. Past trips have included wine tours of Loudoun County, Virginia, and trips to the Philadelphia Constitution Center and the National Portrait Gallery in D.C.

In October 2008, the Scarborough Society began a new partnership with the Shepherdstown Film Society. This partnership will give the Shepherdstown Film Society the financial support it needs to maintain its commitment to show free films for Shepherd students and faculty, and the Shepherdstown community at Reynolds Hall. Click here to learn more about the partnership and the Shepherdstown Film Society.

Those interested in becoming members of the Society may contact the Foundation Office. Membership levels include: Current Student ($10), Associate ($50), Sustaining ($125), Patron ($500), Benefactor ($1,000), and Lifetime ($10,000).