Gifts for Student Spaces Yield Personal Satisfaction

When Tracy '86 and her husband, David Markin, approached the College with a significant donation, they were motivated by Tracy's love for the institution.

"There's really nothing quite like the Sarah Lawrence experience," she explains.

A natural entrepreneur, Tracy credits the College with nurturing independent thinking. "Sarah Lawrence encourages people to do their own thing. I was always that way, and it encouraged me even more."

In recognition of the Markins' generosity, the College renamed the Blue Room in Bates Center for Student Life for Tracy and her brother. The space is now designated as The Sloan Kamenstein '90 and Tracy Kamenstein Markin '86 Blue Room.

Available for open campus events, the Blue Room is a student-run venue, and is often the setting for concerts, dances, and intimate theatrical performances. For the Markins, naming an area strictly dedicated to student activity was especially appealing.

"I liked the idea of naming a space that students can really enjoy," Tracy says. "We wanted to make a difference for current and future students."

"We wanted to make a difference for current and future students."

This recent gift is the second of two meaningful contributions made by the Markins, who also made a significant donation for the Monika A. and Charles A. Heimbold, Jr. Visual Arts Center. Tracy studied sculpture and history as an undergraduate and is now a jewelry designer. She runs a fine jewelry salon that features her custom-made pieces.

For the Markins, who also give annually to the Fund for Sarah Lawrence, these naming opportunities are wonderful, but not the primary reasons they made their gifts. Tracy's motivation for giving is simple: "I love Sarah Lawrence. It feels good to support the College."