After a record-breaking 1700 seniors cast their ballots last week, the installation of historical street clocks throughout the University Park campus won top choice, securing nearly three-fourths of the votes.

"We saw an amazing increase in student participation," said Erica Schneider, overall chair for the 2002 Senior Class Gift Committee, during the unveiling yesterday afternoon.

The seniors also agreed to dedicate the gift to the memory of the victims of the Sept. 11 tragedy.

The street clock project won over the two other proposals: a scholarship to support campus unity and an outdoor café and patio for the Career Services Building.

The winning idea came from two seniors, Allison Meybohn (accounting and international business) and Jennifer Stern (advertising-public relations), who made separate proposals for the street clocks.

Seniors have pledged more than $16,000 so far for the clock project.

This funding is raised through members of the senior class donating the balance of their general deposit.

Although the designer of the clocks has not yet been finalized, it is intended that they have a historic look similar to one found in downtown State College.

Representatives from the Senior Class Gift Committee and the Offices of Physical Plant and Campus Planning and Design will decide the final design and locations of the clocks.

"The senior class did a great job and truly came up with the best choice," said Penn State President Graham Spanier. "It is both touching and fitting that this gift be given for victims of Sept. 11."

He added that the senior gift tradition, which began over a century ago, holds a great deal of meaning for everyone associated with the university.

"I choose this project for its classic style and functional importance," said Meybohn. "I hope that it is a welcome edition on campus."