As part of her senior research project, 18-year-old Davidson Academy student Morgan Swann wants to make a positive difference for 12 million AIDS orphans in Africa by raising $120,000. The catch? Swann is collecting the money one penny at a time.

“Twelve million pennies represents the 12 million African children orphaned by a parent with AIDS,” said Swann. “A penny is more than we think it is. If every person gave a penny, imagine the difference we could all make.”

Swann began collecting pennies as part of her senior research project, which requires each graduating student to select a topic of interest. At the end of the semester, they must write an in-depth paper and present their fi ndings to the senior class.

Swann says that although she hopes to fi nish the penny collection by her thesis presentation in late April, she has promised to continue her project until all 12 million pennies are collected. Each night before bed, Swann counts the daily collection, which has currently reached more than half a million pennies and weighs more than 600 pounds.

While Swann is collecting pennies to help the AIDS orphans in Africa, she will gladly accept larger monetary donations. Once she reaches her goal, Swann plans to donate the money to an organization that helps the orphaned children. To fi nd out how to donate, please contact Christine Gipson at (615) 565-0222 or e-mail cgipson@davidsonacademy.com.