More than 750 students flocked to the Bean on Monday night to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Royce and Mrs. Pam Money.

The celebration featured complimentary cake and ice cream, live music and the chance to have your picture taken  with life-size cutouts of the Moneys.

Kevin Claypool, chair of the organizing committee and resident director for Edwards Hall, said he and eight other students began planning the party in February. He said he had a blast, and he wished the Moneys well.

“We wish them luck and godspeed,” Claypool said. “I hope they felt loved tonight by all the students.”

[members of committee for info box: Kevin Claypool, Charles Gaines, Luke Cochran, Aundi Brown, Kimmy McNiece, Drew Peters, Sylvia Tucker, Carter Dejarnatt and Jeff Arrington]

Luke Cochran, senior finance major from Round Rock and committee member, said he thought the event went great.

“I think the Moneys liked it, and the students were requesting songs until 10:30, so that shows they enjoyed it,” Cochran said.

The Moneys spent the evening mingling with faculty and students and even spent some time taking pictures with themselves – Royce said the cutouts were spooky.

“We’re flattered,” Royce said. “I think it is very kind of the students to do this for us.”

Brady Campbell, junior psychology majors from Abilene, said he appreciated Royce’s interaction with the students.

“I like that he’s a real person, and he will come up and talk to you,” Campbell said.

Campbell also said Monday night’s party allowed him to take a needed break from school.

“This is the first time I’ve relaxed in a long time,” Campbell said.

Juliana Kocsis, junior English major from Denver, took photos with the cutouts and said she enjoyed all the elements of the party.

“I think it is pretty cool, and the music is pretty neat,” Kocsis said. “It shows that this is really what the Moneys are like. They are really invested in the students’ lives.”

Kocsis said she respected Dr. Money for what he has done for the university.

“I really respect his leadership and how he has changed ACU to look more to the future. He is well liked and has been a great example of a good Christian life.”

For those wondering what will become of the cutouts, Cochran said they might be auctioned for charity.