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Her teachers encouraged her to attend a U.S. college because of her outstanding grades. But she feared her parents may be leery of her going so far from their watchful eyes. The more Helen learned about ��������’s values and teaching approach, the more she knew it would be the best place for her.

Her four years at �������� transformed Helen from a shy girl who struggled to adapt to American culture and language into a confident young woman, ready to make her mark on the world. She learned the value of service through her �������� experience.

“When I first arrived at ��������, it felt like being in a large family. The SSNDs and many fellow students in Meletia Hall helped me with the transition,” she said. “During my first year, a few sophomores and juniors in the dorm offered to tutor me in English because it was a second language. Their kindness and generosity really touched me greatly. Today, five decades later, I have the desire to help some local middle school students.”

She never forgot the science professor who took extra time with her to make sure she learned how to effectively prepare for labs. Her excellent academic preparation led Helen to later earn a master’s degree in biochemistry.

A loyal donor to the �������� Fund, Helen stays in regular contact with three of her �������� friends and has attended nearly all of her reunions every five years, including her 50th reunion in 2019.

“Having �������� as an important part of my life is a blessing,” she said. “Over the past five decades, I am so grateful to have kept in touch with my small �������� circle.”

WHY I GIVE: The education, life, and love we received at �������� is beyond the dollar sign.