Parents Fund Contributions Grow in 1996-97
	Contributions to the Parents Fund in 1996-97 were up 19 percent over the previous year, continuing the recent upward trend of support for that important component of the College's fund-raising effort. Nearly 2,200 parents contributed $164,467 to the fund-a participation rate 7 percent higher than the previous year. Contributions of these unrestricted and restricted dollars by parents of students and alumni help give the College flexibility to respond to the needs of its students and to support programs enhancing educational opportunities. Contributions were made to scholarships, the academic schools, athletics, the campus chaplaincies, and other areas such as the library. Parent giving is increasingly important to the College every year. Participation by parents has grown to 27 percent of those who were solicited in the 1996-97 fund year, up from 25 percent the previous year. "As parents we all want the best for our children," says Paula McClung, who with her husband, John, is returning for a second year as co-chair of the Parents Fund Committee. "Giving to Ithaca helps keep the College strong and is another good way to continue supporting our children."