SAVE Antioch NOW

It is not often that I would use a blog to seek aid for an institution, although philanthropy seems to run in my blood and seep through my veins. But today, I plan to make an exception.

I'm not sure how many students of my generation would know the name Antioch College if they happened to see it posted somewhere. The only time I had even delved into the pathos of the institution was half a decade ago when I was planning the next step of my higher education.

The school stuck with me then, so much so that I applied even though it wasn't on my go-to list of top Ivies and highly ranked public schools. And even after I decided upon my alma mater, the University of Virginia, I am still enthralled enough to suggest Antioch as a viable solution to those near and dear to me, including my two younger sisters.

So it certainly is a tragedy to know that Antioch is about to close because of a financial deficit. Of course, as soon as this decision was made, alumni started pouring in funds rather than see the institution's gates closed, but the fact of the matter is, Antioch alumni aren't grand enough in numbers to make quite the difference. Currently home to a mere 230 students, Antioch has rarely thrived at more than 2,000.

Which leads me to my suggestion. What if we, alumni of other various institutions, chipped in and sent our tzedekah money to Antioch. "Now, why would I do that?" you ask. The answer is simple: to provide that wonderful college experience you yourself were fortunate enough to have to a student who is best suited to Antioch.

Some of Antioch's positive traits? Antioch doesn't grade classes. In an age where everyone wishes that SOL's were abolished so that everyone could actually LEARN what piques their interest, Antioch has risen to the challenge and focuses on an education, rather than a schooling. Yes, ladies and gents, there IS a difference.

Antioch is a cornerstone of social change. From weakly peace vigils to silent sit-ins, the students there are students who truly care about the world around them.

Unlike it's elite neighbors, sexism and classism doesn't seem such an issue. Antioch is indeed the poster-school of the flower child.

All of these reasons, and more, merely begin to shed light on the special aura this school holds. It would be a shame to see it go. Please, take one moment, and help save Antioch, now.