This page is no longer being updated and remains online for informational and historical purposes only. The information is accurate as of the last page update.
For questions about page contents, contact the Communications Division.
By Jill Spotz
Amid nearly 700 cheering alumni and friends, flying confetti, lighted leopard spots, and sounds of “Guns and Ships” from the musical Hamilton, President Alison Byerly announced a record-breaking $421 million (and counting) campaign total at Lafayette College’s fourth annual NYC Holiday Party at 583 Park Avenue last week.
“On behalf of all of the campaign leaders who are here, and on behalf of everyone at the College, I want to thank all of you for the dedication, commitment, and loyalty to Lafayette that has made this campaign a tremendous success,” said Byerly prior to revealing the outcome of the historic Live Connected, Lead Change campaign. “The excitement for tonight is nobody knows what the total is.”
Dec. 31 marks the successful conclusion of the College’s capital campaign. The campaign exceeded its goal of $400 million, raising significant funds for financial aid and scholarships, academic initiatives, athletics, and living and learning spaces on campus. The College launched the public phase of the campaign in 2014 at the American Museum of Natural History, on the eve of the 150th Rivalry game at Yankee Stadium.
One of many highlights of the evening included a performance by Lafayette’s Chamber Singers, who performed a Lafayette-inspired rendition of “Carol of the Bells.”
Carol of Lafayette
(Sung to melody of Carol of the Bells)
Oh Lafayette,
Great Lafayette,
You help us grow,
We love you so.
Proud grads are here,
Full of good cheer,
All young and old,
Meek and the bold.
Oh Lafayette,
Where we all met,
Oh come and see,
At Old Pardee.
One seems to hear,
Words of good cheer,
From everywhere,
Filling the air.
Games in the fall,
Leopard and all,
Maroon and white,
Oh, what a sight.
Friendships and cheer,
Grads are all here,
From far and wide,
Lafayette pride.
Merry Merry Merry Marquis
Merry Merry Merry Marquis
Great memories,
Filling the breeze,
Oh Lafayette,
We love you so.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Jonathan Ellis ’98, president of the Alumni Association, and a group performance of the alma mater led by Jennifer Kelly, associate professor of music and director of choral activities and the arts.
Key accomplishments of the Live Connected, Lead Change campaign include:
For more information on the impact of the Live Connected, Lead Change campaign, visit liveconnected.lafayette.edu.