The First Big Donor Group
The Story of the Committee of 100
Oct 14 2024 - 3:30pm
By: Samantha Regalado
Walking on the campus of Southwestern Adventist University, many students today may not be aware of the history they are surrounded by. Among the many structures and areas around campus, the cafeteria, known as the "Committee of 100 Cafeteria," has not only a curious name but also a significant story.
Seventy years ago, the cafeteria was not the bustling hub we see today. It was a modest dining space located in the basement of Heritage Hall, which at the time was the women's dormitory. As the number of students at Southwestern Union College grew, so did the call for a larger cafeteria. Enter Elder Leroy Leiske, the Director of Development, and Ben Leach, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. They had a bold idea: recruit 100 individuals to donate $500 annually to fund a new cafeteria. Thus, the Committee of 100 was born.
As the years rolled on, this committee evolved, contributing to projects that enriched student life—like the campus greenhouse, student missionary programs, and scholarships. Sharon Leach, Ben Leach's daughter-in-law, fondly remembers, "The Committee of 100 consisted of generous, kind people who loved Southwestern Union College. It was the first big donor group that funded many of the school's projects."
On September 21, 1969, the Keene Church announced a special offering to fund the new cafeteria, prompting church members to dig deep into their pockets. In an impressive display of community support, the one-day cash offering totaled nearly $27,000—an astounding amount that would equal about $260,000 today.
Within a week, shovels were in hand, and construction began on the new cafeteria. Thirty-three committee members attended the groundbreaking ceremony, showing their commitment to improving student life. The new building was more than just a cafeteria; it was a space where students could gather, share meals, and create lasting memories.
As we walk through campus today, it's important to reflect on the
stories behind these buildings. The Committee of 100 may be disbanded, but their legacy lives on in the walls of the buildings they helped build. Each brick laid serves as a reminder of the community spirit that makes Southwestern Adventist University a place of growth and opportunity. So, as we pass by the cafeteria, let's carry a sense of gratitude for those who built the foundation of the experiences we cherish today.
