Harvard Varsity Club Announcement

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- The Harvard Varsity Club and Department of Athletics are thrilled to formally announce the establishment of the Senior Letterwinners' Dinner Endowment Fund. As a pooled Fund, any alumnus/a may contribute a tax deductible gift and receive Campaign, Reunion, and Class credit with the Harvard College Fund.

Held for fifty consecutive years on the eve of Commencement, the Senior Letterwinners' Dinner brings all Major H recipients, their families, coaches, and Athletic Department staff together to celebrate the contributions and successes of the graduating class. It is the only time that all student-athletes in the senior class are together under one roof – fulfilling part of the mission of the Harvard Varsity Club outlined in 1886! This year's Senior Letterwinners' Dinner will be held Wednesday, May 24 at the Bright-Landry Hockey Center.

Jackie and Jeff Tonkel '92 have made a leadership pledge as a part of his 25th Reunion, solidifying the formation of the endowment fund. Tonkel, who played linebacker on the football team, reflected upon his experiences while at Harvard:

"Looking back on my undergraduate days, my athletic experience and the friends I made through athletics undoubtedly had an influence on my life and who I am today. To this day, I remain close friends with many athletes who competed across the spectrum of sports at Harvard. I have a deep respect for student-athletes, their tireless commitment to success, and their contribution to Harvard University. I am pleased to have the opportunity to help establish the endowment fund for the Senior Letterwinners' Dinner. This is a night where Harvard University, the Athletics Department, the student-athletes, their families and friends can celebrate together all of their accomplishments the night before they graduate and take their talents into the world."