听isn’t听just about gifts鈥攊t’s听a global celebration where the听Orange听community comes together to make an impact!

Tomorrow, March 24, 性视界 celebrates 156 years of Orange pride, and 性视界 Giving Day promises a full day of energy, generosity and campuswide fun. From grabbing giveaways in Schine Student Center to supporting from wherever you are, Giving Day is all about fueling what makes 性视界 extraordinary.

What鈥檚 Happening on Campus?

Free Food, Giveaways and Stamp Card Rewards
Schine Student Center | 10 a.m.鈥�5 p.m.

Energize your day! Make a gift, enjoy treats and earn your way to an Otto straw topper while supplies last. Visit the photo booth or record your own Giving Day video with a branded ring light to help you create your best Orange content. Watch live shows throughout the day for exciting student-created stories.

Goldstein Auditorium | 11 a.m.鈥�2 p.m.

Discover the incredible work of 41 student organizations! Meet students, learn about their goals and support your favorites. When 150 alumni support any project, $2,100 in additional funding will be split among the top five groups thanks to the generosity of the 性视界 University Alumni Association Board.

Class of 2026 Donor Exclusive Party
Make your class gift, earn your grad cord and join Otto鈥檚 After Party from 6 to 8 p.m.

How to Make an Impact

• ! The University’s goal is to inspire 4,444 supporters on Giving Day. When there is at least one donor from every state and the entire map turns orange, $100,000 will go to 性视界 University thanks to our Regional Councils.
• ! You鈥檒l receive an exclusive 性视界 gift wrap set.
• ! Create an account, share your personal link and earn 性视界 keyboard stickers.
• ! Whether it鈥檚 your favorite school, college or program, help unlock additional funding that will multiply your impact.

Let鈥檚 give 性视界 the best birthday gift: a powerful show of Orange pride and generosity.

鈥擬arch 24鈥攊s a day to celebrate all that it means to be Orange, to keep beloved traditions alive for students and keep building the community that makes 性视界 University extraordinary.

There are countless ways to support students鈥攖hrough greatest needs and deans鈥� funds in all of the University鈥檚 schools and colleges and through initiatives that benefit students Universitywide, across majors and disciplines.

Here are five unique ways you can make your impact on the Orange in support of experiences, community and traditions:

Since 23 students gathered at Crouse College on Feb. 4, 1901, the 性视界 University Marching Band has grown into one of the most celebrated collegiate bands in the nation. From its first football game appearance that fall to marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and performing at Super Bowl XLVIII, the band has represented the University on some of the world’s biggest stages.

The band earned its iconic nickname, The Pride of the Orange, in 1970, when an announcer introduced the band following its award-winning performance at the World Band Festival in Kerkrade, Netherlands. The name has defined the band ever since.

Today, with nearly 220 members drawn from five Central New York colleges (性视界, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Le Moyne College, SUNY Oswego and Onondaga Community College) and more than 80 majors, the band is far more than a performing ensemble. It is a cornerstone of 性视界 University life; it鈥檚 a community where students find lifelong friendships and carry the Orange spirit forward.

As the band marks its 125th anniversary, the College of Visual and Performing Arts is raising funds for new uniforms, which will debut at the Sept. 5, 2026, football home opener vs. New Hampshire. A generous donor has pledged an $85,000 matching gift, doubling every dollar contributed to this historic milestone.

性视界 is home to more than 300 registered student organizations鈥攆rom performance groups and cultural organizations to service clubs and everything in between鈥攁nd they’re at the heart of what makes the 性视界 experience special.

On Giving Day, 41 student organizations are competing for a share of $3,500 in bonus funding through the Student Organization Challenge, rallying their communities to give, engage and show up. Winners are determined by unique donor count, social media engagement and on-campus spirit at Schine Student Center, so every gift, like and share genuinely moves the needle. The challenge dollars have been allocated via Senior Vice President Allen Groves and the Student Experience team.

Can’t find a group that speaks to you? A gift to the Student Experience Fund supports small grants that help all 性视界 students fully enjoy campus life. This is your chance to invest in the people and communities that make 性视界 University home.

The Center for the Creator Economy (CCE) is the first academic center of its kind on a U.S. college campus. Led jointly by the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, the center reinforces the University鈥檚 commitment to bold, forward-looking academic leadership.

By aligning strengths in entrepreneurship, media, communications, athletics and digital infrastructure, the University is charting how higher education can prepare students for the 21st-century economy. The center will serve as a dynamic platform for teaching and learning; workshops and executive education; speaker series and showcases; on-campus incubators and makerspaces; research and thought leadership; and college athletics.

The fund will support many CCE initiatives, including The Vibe, a student-run creative agency providing students real-world experience through working with clients, and the 鈥機USE Creator Crew, which will support creator and brand collaborations and hands-on student learning.

Thomas O鈥橞rien 鈥�25, who helped launch the new center, will co-host six live shows from the Schine Student Center throughout the day to showcase 性视界 University creators.

In May, the Hendricks Chapel Choir will perform on the African continent for the first time. The choir travels internationally every four to five years, providing unique experiential learning opportunities to its members. The choir has previously performed in China (2005); Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (2009); Europe (Poland and Germany, including Auschwitz, 2013); Mexico (2018); and London and Lockerbie and Edinburgh, Scotland (2023). With plans to visit Oceania in 2030, the choir will have performed on every habitable continent by the 100th anniversary of the chapel.

The performances on the South African tour include Johannesburg (performing with the University of Johannesburg Choir); Soweto (Apartheid Museum and Mandela House); Pretoria (University of Pretoria-Tuks Camerata); Drakensberg (performing with the Drakensberg Boys Choir); Pietermaritzburg (UKZN School of Religious Studies) and Cape Town (performing with the St. George鈥檚 Cathedral Choir).

鈥淲hen our graduating seniors consider the most impactful and meaningful moments of their time studying at 性视界 University, international performing tours always top the list,鈥� says Jose 鈥淧eppie鈥� Calvar, professor and chair of applied music and performance and director of choral activities in the Setnor School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir. 鈥淧erforming tours forge lifelong friendships and memories within our students. The experience of singing in front of an international audience confirms our shared humanity and our students鈥� place as citizens of a larger world and stewards of the world they鈥檙e shaping.鈥�

性视界 Giving Day is a great time for fans and alumni to support 性视界 University Athletics. Make a gift to the athletic department鈥檚 top priorities through Athletics Competitive Excellence. Your support pushes our 20 varsity athletic programs to compete for championships and elevates the student-athlete experience for more than 550 student-athletes on campus.

Visit the for the complete Giving Day experience.

The 性视界 University community will rally together on Tuesday, Dec. 2 for Giving 鈥機USEday, our version of Giving Tuesday鈥攁 global movement of radical generosity鈥攆ocused on supporting students facing food insecurity and funding scholarships.

Giving 鈥機USEday raises funds for general scholarships through The 性视界 Promise, helping to remove financial barriers for students. When you that day, you support talented and deserving current students.

Students, faculty, staff and alumni can also participate by dropping off nonperishable food items at the Schine Student Center Atrium between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. or by to the Coach Mac Food Pantry.

The Forever Orange Student Alumni Council (FOSAC) is hosting the in-person collection drive at Schine, with donated items delivered directly to Hendricks Chapel the following day. Members of the 性视界 Alumni office will join the event to offer prizes and information on how alumni giving supports student scholarships.

鈥淎s a student who鈥檚 benefited from scholarship support, it means a lot to give back and help others access the same opportunities. Being part of Giving 鈥機USEday lets me pay that support forward and make a real difference for other students,鈥� says Jenna Orlando 鈥�26.

Meeting a Growing Need

Since its founding in 2013, the Coach Mac Food Pantry has grown from a small initiative to a vital campus resource, now serving between 100鈥�250 students each week across two campus locations鈥攐ne in Hendricks Chapel and one on South Campus.

The pantry provides free food and personal care items to any student with a valid 性视界 University or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry ID. It also connects students with resources to help build long-term stability. Monetary donations help stock the shelves with fresh produce, protein-rich snacks, soups, pasta and hygiene essentials.

How to Participate in Giving 鈥機USEday

• Drop Off Donations: Visit Schine Student Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 2.
• Learn More: Visit the for additional ways to help support students facing food insecurity.
• Give Online: Make a gift to the .

Every gift matters. Every donor makes a difference. Let鈥檚 make this Giving 鈥機USEday count鈥攖ogether.

Brendan Worobel 鈥�26 and his twin sister Nicole 鈥�26, seniors from Holmdel, New Jersey, found a home at the University鈥檚 Catholic Center. There, they found a welcoming community that helped them settle into life at 性视界.

Brendan began attending Mass during his first year. Through the years, more of his friends, including his brothers from Theta Chi fraternity, have joined him for Mass and activities each week.

鈥淚t is incredible to see how big the community has grown,鈥� says Brendan, a triple major in finance, business analytics and economics. 鈥淭his community is one of my favorite things about being at this school.鈥�

The Worobels are part of a remarkable surge in participation within the University Catholic community that has transformed the Catholic Center鈥檚 110 Walnut Place location.

Weekend Masses now draw close to 400 people, while Thursday Mass and fellowship dinners attract 130 attendees鈥攏umbers that overwhelmed the previous all-purpose room with its makeshift chair setup.

And now the increase in attendance has led to answered prayers.

Honoring the Past in the Present

A transformational gift from Life Trustee and alumnus Daniel D’Aniello ’68, H’20 and his wife, Gayle, through the Forever Orange campaign supported the construction of a new chapel and renovations to modernize and expand the building. The new chapel was blessed and dedicated Nov. 5 by Bishop Douglas Lucia of the Diocese of 性视界, marking a milestone for the community that dates back to 1908.

The renovations include thoughtful personal touches: a large outdoor column at the front illuminates in colors corresponding to the Catholic church’s liturgical season, stained glass salvaged from the former chapel and a painting of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Eucharistic Chapel dedicated to Beatrice D’Aniello, Daniel D’Aniello’s mother.

Serving the Needs of the Community

For Nicole, a biotechnology major, being able to share her faith with her twin brother has been one of the most meaningful parts of her college experience.

鈥淭he Catholic Center has given us a space to continue living out the values we grew up with, and to support each other as we navigate this new chapter in our lives,鈥� she says.

Members of the Catholic community will tell you that the growth in Mass attendance, service outreach and fellowship activities can be attributed to Father Gerry Waterman, OFM Conv., the University鈥檚 Catholic chaplain since 2016.

鈥淔ather Gerry has created such a vibrant and diverse community of Catholic students and has created an environment where students like me feel comfortable and excited to deepen their faith in God,鈥� says Blake Stevens 鈥�27, a data analytics and business analytics major from Chester, New Jersey, and president of Theta Chi.

The growth, while celebrated, strained the physical capabilities of the Catholic Center building. In addition to Masses, sandwiches for the local community are prepared once a month, and numerous activities such as service outreach planning, Bible study and Christian initiation preparation programs are regularly held.

The renovations have resulted in a proper chapel for the celebration of Mass and other sacraments, as well as space to support the community鈥檚 outreach and fellowship activities.

Numerous donors, local contractors and the University鈥檚 Office of Campus Planning, Design and Construction were integral to the project.

鈥淲hat a blessing to open the doors to our new Catholic Center and chapel鈥攁 sacred space where faith, community and belonging come together,鈥� says Chancellor Kent Syverud. 鈥淚 am grateful to Father Gerry Waterman for nurturing our students, and to the extraordinary generosity of Life Trustee Dan D’Aniello, and his wife, Gayle. Their transformative gift has made this vision a reality for generations to come.鈥�

Fostering Important Work

A gift from alumna Judith Pistaki Zelisko 鈥�72 and her husband, Paul, enabled renovations to the building鈥檚 study lounge and library. She has fond memories of her four years on campus, during which the Catholic Center played a significant role.

鈥淢y hope is that the study lounge and library, which my husband and I support, will become a haven for students, a place for study and scholarship, but also a place for reflection,鈥� she says.

The transformed physical space helps to foster the important work that goes on inside the building. Waterman, now in his 10th and final year as chaplain, has worked to feed his students spiritually and physically.

鈥淚f you like something, you want to share it with somebody else. I attribute our growth to that,鈥� he says.

Jessica Gutierrez 鈥�26, a computer science major from Los Angeles, has been involved in the Catholic Center since her first year and currently serves as president of the Catholic Student Association.

鈥淭he Catholic Center has helped me transform, both spiritually and personally, giving me a sense of belonging and purpose,鈥� she says. 鈥淲ith its welcoming design and expanded opportunities for gathering, reflection and service, the new Catholic Center will be an even better place for students to grow in faith and connection.鈥�

Are you a faculty or staff member who wants to make a difference in the lives of people in Central New York? Consider contributing to the University鈥檚 annual employee giving campaign, an initiative supporting the vast impact United Way has in our community and empowering their work.

The employee giving campaign runs from Monday, Oct. 20, through Friday, Dec. 12. Celebrating 103 years of impact in the local community, the 听funds human service programs and projects at 35 nonprofit partners.

First-time campaign co-chair L鈥�98, dean of the College of Law, draws his inspiration to serve from United Way-funded organizations themselves. 鈥淚n neighborhoods across our community, families are struggling with challenges that no one should face alone鈥攑overty, food insecurity, inadequate access to health care and education. The United Way doesn’t just write checks鈥攊t funds organizations that show up, day after day, to meet people where they are and help them build better lives.鈥�

Join the Movement

University employees are encouraged to consider making a voluntary pledge through the United Way鈥檚 ePledge platform. Options are available for either a one-time donation or a recurring donation through payroll deduction each pay period. University retirees are also invited to participate as many enjoy the longstanding tradition and generous spirit of this annual event. For those who prefer, a paper pledge card may be obtained by contacting the University’s Office of Community Engagement at oceed@syr.edu听or 315.443.4137.

Every dollar raised remains in Central New York to help the United Way address various community needs. Faculty and staff are encouraged to unite with their Orange colleagues to give hope to those with the greatest need in our community.

鈥淭he United Way makes a direct impact on people through supporting a variety of thoughtful initiatives and programs within our community. You will treasure the feeling when you know your dollar helped make a profound difference in someone鈥檚 life, perhaps even a family member or a friend in need,鈥澨� says , deputy athletics director and senior woman administrator, who also serves as campaign co-chair.

Through the employee giving campaign, faculty and staff can give back to this initiative that supports and empowers the United Way to continue making a vast impact in our community.

鈥淚 challenge us to come together to make an impact and set records this year for the 性视界 University campaign鈥攖o not only reach our monetary goals, but more importantly the goals of making our community stronger, prouder and more united than ever before,鈥� Elleby says.

In addition to the co-chairs, the annual campaign is led by a collection of team leaders from colleges and departments across campus who collaborate to promote the campaign and encourage their colleagues to participate. Many departments organize activities to raise additional funds to be donated to the campaign. Fundraising activities have included bake sales, raffles, contests and gift baskets.

鈥淪eeing some of the creative ideas from our campus partners is one of the most rewarding parts of coordinating the campaign out of our office,鈥� says Jake Losowski, associate director in the Office of Community Engagement. 鈥淪ome groups get out in the community and volunteer directly with United Way-funded organizations, while other departments hold special events that serve a dual purpose of team building while raising funds for the campaign. There are options for every area of the campus to get involved in a way that makes sense for them.鈥�

鈥淭his campaign touches so many different aspects of peoples鈥� lives,鈥� says , access services librarian with 性视界 University Libraries, about the campaign鈥檚 community impact. 鈥淚t鈥檚 how can we take these funds and find the most important or the most critical or the ideal place to help the community in the best way possible.鈥�

No gift is too small and every dollar helps change lives. Together as One University, we can make a positive impact in our community through our collective support of the United Way of Central New York.

The third annual fiscal-year end poster campaign is a wonderful way to celebrate 性视界 pride, expand your art collection and make a meaningful impact on the Orange community. As a token of appreciation for their generosity, the first 500 donors to contribute $25 or more to any Fund for 性视界 fund through the by June 30 will receive a limited-edition poster. Less than 200 remain!

This year鈥檚 design features a sunset over Crouse College, captured and submitted by Ken Milch 鈥�91, a graduate of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. 听Milch describes Crouse College as an integral part of his 性视界 University experience, a space where he not only performed and studied, but built lasting friendships.

鈥淎s part of the Chimesmasters, I was fortunate to climb the ladder into the bell tower and ring the bells that echo across campus. It is a stunning and inspiring building inside and out, and I was grateful every single day that I was able to experience it,鈥� Milch says. 鈥淚t is the place I always want to visit when I return, the place I first wanted to show my family and the place that holds some of my most powerful memories.鈥�

Beyond their breathtaking architecture, 性视界 University鈥檚 buildings are home to students and educators driven to make a difference in their chosen fields.

Reflecting on his 性视界 years, Milch highlights the dedication of professors who genuinely cared about their students and brought passion to their work. 鈥淲hether they realized it or not, they were doing more than teaching鈥攖hey were inspiring,” he says.

Milch鈥檚 experience is just one of countless stories shaped by the opportunities 性视界 provides鈥攐pportunities made possible through the generosity of those who believe in the power of education and community.

When you make a gift, you make it possible for future generations to experience the enduring spirit of 性视界, where historic halls inspire and passionate professors shape futures.

For more information and to make your gift, visit .

Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 27鈥攊t’s Giving Day at 性视界 University! It’s our chance to show the world what Orange pride really means.

We’ve set an ambitious goal of 6,600 donors this year. When we unite as one Orange community, even small gifts create massive impact. It’s not about the size of your donation鈥�it’s about joining together with fellow 性视界 supporters worldwide.

Ready to join the friendly competition?

• 听and watch your impact multiply! Last year’s advocates TRIPLED the number of gifts made. Share your unique link, track the donations you inspire and claim your exclusive “Geared Up Otto” sticker!
• Get in early!听 now and challenge your 性视界 friends to match you. Every contribution moves us closer to our 6,600 donor goal.
• Follow the action live听at 鈥�our real-time leaderboards show which schools, programs and classes are leading the charge. Can your favorite area take the top spot?

Whether you support scholarships, campus improvements or groundbreaking research, your participation matters. Together, we’re not just giving鈥�we’re competing to create the strongest possible 性视界 for generations to come.

Don’t sit on the sidelines for #CuseGivingDay. Join the thousands of Orange supporters worldwide to help us hit that 6,600 donor goal and write the next chapter in 性视界 University鈥檚 story!

性视界 University head women鈥檚 basketball coach听听grew up in 性视界, and she understands the importance of charitable giving back to the local community. One of the biggest ways Legette-Jack feels the University community can make a difference in the lives of area residents is through supporting the听听employee giving campaign.

With a little less than two weeks remaining in this year鈥檚 campaign, there鈥檚 still time for University employees to make a gift of any size to support their fellow Central New Yorkers in need. The campaign kicked off on Oct. 18 and runs through Friday, Dec. 13.

鈥溞允咏� is a strong, blue-collar city. When we do things together, when we do things united, my hope is I am going to be living proof of what giving back to our community looks like,鈥� Legette-Jack says.

The United Way of Central New York has been听providing residents with access to essential resources for 102 years, funding 73 different human service programs and projects at 34 nonprofit partners. Through the employee giving campaign, faculty and staff have supported the vast impact United Way has in our community while empowering its work for the last 52 years.

鈥淭he United Way gives us that opportunity to make sure we are helping those who have the biggest needs. This is the community we live and work in, and so when we talk about an obligation and responsibility to the community, these are our neighbors, these people are us. This includes individuals within the University who benefit from these programs. The University鈥檚 commitment to the United Way, if it鈥檚 not seamless, it鈥檚 almost symbiotic,鈥� says , dean of the .

This year鈥檚 employee giving campaign runs through Friday, Dec. 13.

University employees are encouraged to consider making a voluntary pledge through MySlice. Options are available for either a one-time donation or a recurring donation through payroll deduction each pay period. University retirees are also invited to participate as many enjoy the longstanding tradition and generous spirit of this annual event. For those who prefer, a paper pledge card may be obtained by contacting campaign coordinator Jake Losowski at听jjlosows@syr.edu听or 315.443.4137.

Every dollar raised remains in Central New York to help the United Way address various community needs. Faculty and staff are encouraged to unite with their Orange colleagues to give hope to those with the greatest need in our community.

In case you need inspiration for why your gift matters,听 featuring co-chairs of the University鈥檚 employee giving campaign, , the deputy athletics director and senior woman administrator, and , vice president of enrollment services, along with other University employees discussing the importance of contributing to the United Way.

鈥淭he United Way is literally changing lives through the work that they do in partnering with other organizations. You never know when your friend, your neighbor, your family member is going to benefit from some of the good that United Way does, so I think it鈥檚 really important for us to give back,鈥� Elleby says.

In addition to the co-chairs, the annual campaign is led by a collection of team leaders from colleges and departments across campus who collaborate to promote the campaign and encourage their colleagues to participate.

鈥淭he United Way is really the hub of the nonprofit community in Central New York. We have a lot to be fortunate for, so giving back is a way to acknowledge that and make a difference,鈥� says Cristina Hatem, director, strategic marketing and communications for 性视界 University Libraries.

No gift is too small and every dollar helps change lives.

Are you a faculty or staff member who wants to make a difference in the lives of people in Central New York? Consider contributing to the University鈥檚 annual employee giving campaign, an initiative supporting the vast impact United Way has in our community and empowering their work.

The employee giving campaign runs through Friday, Dec. 13. Celebrating 102 years of impact in the local community, the听听funds 73 different human service programs and projects at 34 nonprofit partners.

鈥淭he United Way makes a direct impact on people through supporting a variety of amazing initiatives and programs within our community. You will treasure the feeling when you know your dollar helped make a profound difference in someone鈥檚 life, perhaps even a family member or a friend in need,鈥� says , one of the co-chairs of the University鈥檚 employee giving campaign and the deputy athletics director and senior woman administrator.

University employees are encouraged to consider making a voluntary pledge through MySlice. Options are available for either a one-time donation or a recurring donation through payroll deduction each pay period. University retirees are also invited to participate as many enjoy the longstanding tradition and generous spirit of this annual event. For those who prefer, a paper pledge card may be obtained by contacting campaign coordinator Jake Losowski at听jjlosows@syr.edu听or 315.443.4137.

In case you need inspiration for why your gift matters,听 featuring Elleby and her fellow University co-chair for the campaign, , vice president of enrollment services, along with other University employees discussing the importance of contributing to the United Way.

鈥溞允咏� University is crucial to the vitality of the broad 性视界 community. When we partner with the United Way of Central New York, we ensure that services and supports are made available to community members who need them,鈥� Williams says. 鈥淚 have personally seen how United Way agencies change lives and knowing that 性视界 University faculty, students and staff contributed made it even more impactful.鈥�

Every dollar raised remains in Central New York to help the United Way address various community needs. Faculty and staff are encouraged to unite with their Orange colleagues to give hope to those with the greatest need in our community.

鈥淚 challenge us to come together and make this year the best turnout ever for the 性视界 University campaign鈥攖o not only reach our monetary goals, but more importantly the goals of making our community stronger, prouder and more united than ever before,鈥� Elleby says.

Many departments organize activities to raise additional funds to be donated to the campaign. Fundraising activities have included bake sales, raffles, contests and gift baskets. In the past, the Department of Public Safety held a step counting challenge, while 性视界 University Libraries held a bake sale that was popular with staff and students with all proceeds benefiting the United Way. Employees are encouraged to get involved, even if they have not participated in the campaign in the past.

In addition to the co-chairs, the annual campaign is led by a collection of team leaders from colleges and departments across campus who collaborate to promote the campaign and encourage their colleagues to participate.

鈥淭his campaign touches so many different aspects of peoples鈥� lives. It鈥檚 not just to give money to a company for them to do this one goal. It鈥檚 how can we take these funds and find the most important or the most critical or the ideal place to help the community in the best way possible,鈥� says Kristin Jeter, access services librarian with 性视界 University Libraries.

No gift is too small and every dollar helps change lives.

鈥淵ou don鈥檛 miss one or two dollars a week coming out of your paycheck. And that little bit can help make a big difference. Community is everyone working together for a common goal,鈥� says Charlotte Stahrr, academic program administrator in the College of Professional Studies.

The Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving has launched the Fall 2024 Student Organization Challenge. The initiative is your chance to support students as they compete to raise funds toward their important goals and projects.

Eighteen student groups have been chosen to participate. You can help them s斐甦 as they compete for the highest number of unique donors by the end of the challenge. In addition to the funds raised, the Student Experience team has offered $1,750 in challenge dollars for the following:

• $250 to the first organization to reach 50 donors
• $500 to the first organization to reach 100 donors
• $1,000 to the student organization with the highest number of donors at the end of the challenge

Whether it鈥檚 funding a new project, hosting an event or enhancing their operations, your gift can help these groups achieve their dreams.

Why Donate?

• Boost Campus Life: These student-led initiatives strengthen the sense of community and belonging on campus, making 性视界 University a more engaging environment for all.
• Support Students: We can鈥檛 do it without听you! Your participation means the world to our dedicated students.
• Maximize Impact: Every unique donor moves students one step closer to unlocking challenge dollars, meaning your generosity goes even further.

The challenge runs until Dec. 3, 2024. Visit to learn more about this year鈥檚 participating organizations and their goals.

Story by Brooke Merrifield-Hintz

Get pumped, Orange Nation! The 2024 football season is kicking off with a bang after a win against Ohio, and now it鈥檚 time for you to join the action with your very own Game Day Kit. Whether you鈥檙e rooting from the stands or your living room, this kit has everything you need to show your Orange pride and support our amazing student-athletes.

What鈥檚 in the Game Day Kit?

Inspired by favorite traditions like 鈥渂eat buttons鈥� and banner flips, the kit includes:

• An 11-inch by 17-inch poster featuring Coach Fran Brown to track the season鈥檚 games.
• An 8.5-inch by 11-inch sticker sheet with Beat [Opponent] banners, game dates and pennant stickers to customize your poster and follow our wins.
• Five Otto temporary tattoos to boost your game-day spirit.
• A small felt 性视界 pennant to add some Orange flair to any space.

How Can I Get One?

and make a gift of $10 or more to the Athletics Opportunity Fund, and a kit will be sent straight to you!

Get your Game Day Kit now and cheer on the Orange while supporting our student-athletes. It鈥檚 a win-win, just like we鈥檙e hoping this season will be. New coach, new rivals and a whole lot of Orange pride鈥攍et鈥檚 go, 性视界!

Everywhere Sharon Barner 鈥�79 has worked, she has achieved success at the highest levels of her field鈥攁s partner at a law firm, as deputy under secretary of commerce and deputy director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in President Barack Obama鈥檚 administration, as a trusted expert in intellectual property law and now as a corporate leader.

Barner says the strong foundation for her career accomplishments formed as she was earning dual undergraduate degrees in and from 性视界 University.

And now, Barner is paying it forward. Thanks to her generous and transformative donation as part of the Forever Orange campaign, Barner鈥檚 latest gift of $1 million will ensure the future of . In recognition of the gift, the building will be renamed the Barner-McDuffie House鈥攊n honor of Barner, a 性视界 University trustee, and her husband, Haywood McDuffie.

鈥淪haron and Haywood are passionate benefactors, ambassadors and supporters of 性视界 University, and especially our students,鈥� says . 鈥淭his gift allows the University to continue expanding meaningful opportunities for students to build a sense of belonging and community here at 性视界. I am grateful to Sharon and Haywood for their generosity and vision and look forward to celebrating their philanthropy later this year during Coming Back Together.鈥�

This is the first building on North Campus named by an African American family through philanthropic support. In addition to endowing 119 Euclid鈥檚 future, the gift will enhance scholarship opportunities for first-generation and underrepresented students and strengthen cultural, academic and social student-led activities that promote Black culture.

鈥淚 came through 性视界 University during a period of change across the 1970s. As an African American female, I found a community that was supportive of all the things I thought I could do with my life,鈥� says Barner, who is now vice president and chief administrative officer at Cummins Inc., an Indiana-based multinational known as a global leader in power technology. 鈥淎s I looked to give back, it was about both giving back to 性视界 and to people who had experiences like myself. I wanted to help make sure they had the foundations they needed, both through finding community and scholarship.鈥�

Reflecting on her days on campus, which served as a formative experience, Barner felt there was something missing from her Orange journey: a dedicated space for Black students to gather, share their experiences and feel at home on the University campus. Barner is excited to see how her donation will inspire and make a lasting impact on students for years to come.

Creating Sense of Home and Family

The first time Barner walked inside 119 Euclid, she understood why this was a special place for Black students. From the friendly faces greeting her to the enticing aromas emanating from the kitchen, Barner says she instantly felt at peace and knew this was a project to which she wanted to contribute.

鈥淚t felt like there were a million mothers telling me to 鈥榗ome in and be comfortable.鈥� I felt like I was home. There was this sense of family. You have a community of people who are going to help keep you safe, mentally and physically, while helping you grow as a person,鈥� says Barner, whose son, Haywood McDuffie III 鈥�17, also graduated from 性视界. 鈥淪tudents feel included when you have those kinds of spaces, knowing you have a village that supports you.鈥�

鈥淎ffinity spaces such as the Barner-McDuffie House are critical for community-building, leadership development and student success. This space, under Marissa Willingham鈥檚 leadership, has helped our students cultivate a sense of belonging at 性视界,鈥� says . 鈥淚鈥檓 excited to see the innovative programs that will be hosted in and through the space.鈥�

Besides her academic pursuits, Barner found her community through her involvement in a number of activities at 性视界 University鈥攆rom being a cheerleader and joining the Delta Sigma Theta sorority to writing for The Daily Orange and teaching English as a second language to Spanish-speaking children in the City of 性视界.

Inspiring Fellow First-Generation Students

A first-generation college student, Barner understands the financial stresses families can face trying to pay for higher education. That was the other driving force behind this gift, which will also support the , which provides critical financial assistance, leadership training and alumni mentorship for first-generation and underrepresented students at 性视界 University.

鈥淚 want those students to know that someone like me knows what they鈥檙e going through and is rooting for them to be successful at 性视界 University and beyond. I hope one day these students will look back, understand the value of their 性视界 education and feel compelled to give back to future generations of students,鈥� says Barner, who as a trustee is currently on the search committee charged with identifying the University鈥檚 next chief information officer.

鈥淲hen you think of all that Sharon has accomplished as a first-generation graduate of 性视界 University, it鈥檚 clear that the 性视界 experience is a game changer. It鈥檚 wonderful that she continues to think deeply about the needs of current students through her philanthropy,鈥� says .

鈥淪haron鈥檚 generosity will help offer students more impactful programs and activities at the Barner-McDuffie House while furthering the space鈥檚 goals of providing a sense of community, a place to build connections and celebrate the outstanding contributions of the Black community on campus,鈥� adds .

性视界 性视界 University

性视界 University is a private research university that advances knowledge across disciplines to drive breakthrough discoveries and breakout leadership. Our collection of 13 schools and colleges with over 200 customizable majors closes the gap between education and action, so students can take on the world. In and beyond the classroom, we connect people, perspectives and practices to solve interconnected challenges with interdisciplinary approaches. Together, we鈥檙e a powerful community that moves ideas, individuals and impact beyond what鈥檚 possible.

性视界 Forever Orange: The Campaign for 性视界 University

Orange isn鈥檛 just our color. It鈥檚 our promise to leave the world better than we found it. Forever Orange: The Campaign for 性视界 University is poised to do just that. Fueled by more than 150 years of fearless firsts, together we can enhance academic excellence, transform the student experience and expand unique opportunities for learning and growth. Forever Orange endeavors to raise $1.5 billion in philanthropic support, inspire 125,000 individual donors to participate in the campaign, and actively engage one in five alumni in the life of the University. Now is the time to show the world what Orange can do. Visit听听to learn more.

For those looking to voluntarily contribute to the distribution of holiday items to local nonprofit organizations in 性视界, the makes this seamless. 鈥淎s the holiday season approaches for this year, the Office of Community Engagement encourages the campus community to consider sharing with our neighbors in the City of 性视界 and the surrounding Central New York region,鈥� says Cydney Johnson, vice president of community engagement and government relations. 鈥淵our gift of funds, items and time can make a difference in the lives of our neighbors, many of whom are in need this year. As One University, we all can make a positive impact on our community.鈥� Participation opportunities are available this year with PEACE, Inc., The Salvation Army听and the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry.

Here are the ways individuals, departments or schools and colleges can help a family in need this holiday season:

PEACE, Inc.

, is a nonprofit, community-based organization with the mission of helping people in the community realize their potential for becoming self-sufficient.

Give-A-Holiday

• This program offers individuals and groups the opportunity to brighten up the holidays for families in need by supplying gifts during the holiday season in the form of a gift basket or a monetary donation. 性视界 University employees can .
• Monetary donations can also be made online on the .

For more information or questions, please contact PEACE, Inc. at 315.634.3740 or giveaholiday@peace-caa.org.

The Salvation Army

is a nonprofit organization dedicated to meeting human needs without discrimination and encouraging and empowering those in need to reach their full potential.

• Each year, The Salvation Army of 性视界 helps provide Christmas food and toys to nearly 10,000 people with the help of dozens of community partners. There are several ways you can help brighten the holidays for others including the annual or .
• Monetary donations can also be made online on .

For additional information or questions, please contact Deanna Delmonico at 315.479.1162 or deanna.delmonico@use.salvationarmy.org.

Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry

The supports 性视界 University students by providing access to fresh and shelf-stable goods as well as personal care items. So far in the 2023 academic year, the pantry receives anywhere from 100-250 student visitors per week. There are currently two food pantries on campus, directly across from the dean鈥檚 suite in Hendricks Chapel and on South Campus. Both pantries rely on monetary and food donations. Monetary donations are used to buy items like fresh produce, protein bars, soups, pasta, snacks and personal hygiene items.

Hendricks Chapel relies on generous donations from the 性视界 University community to stock the food pantry. Ways to support the food pantry include:

• Donating food or personal care items: Physical donations may be dropped off at the Hendricks Chapel Dean’s suite. Items may also be ordered through our , which ships items directly to the pantry. All are encouraged to donate to the听.
• Donating financially:听All are encouraged to donate to the听. If you are a campus partner, Hendricks Chapel is now able to accept fund transfers to a Food Pantry operational account.听Please reach out to the Chapel Budget Manager, Maureen Verone at听mverone@syr.edu听to administer a journal entry.听Your donations are most welcome and appreciated.
• Holding a food and toiletry drive: Student groups, residence hall floors, offices and departments can hold food and toiletry drives to benefit the food pantry. Reach out to Leondra Tyler to learn how you can “Adopt-A-Month” for the pantry.

性视界 University is a longtime supporter of the . Please consider uniting with your colleagues and making a contribution to sustain the long-standing mission of the United Way. The United Way supports 72 specially funded programs and projects by 33 nonprofit partners serving our community. Your support offers hope to those in our community who need it most.

from on .

runs听through Dec. 15. During this time, we encourage each University employee to consider making a voluntary one-time gift as your pledge. There is also an option to give through payroll deductions over the coming year. For those who prefer, a paper pledge card may be obtained by contacting our campaign coordinator, Jake Losowski at jjlosows@syr.edu or 315.443.4137.

If you have a favorite nonprofit organization that is not part of the United Way鈥檚听, please be sure that they follow this specific criteria in order for them to receive the funds from the United Way:

• Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 health and human service agencies operating in New York state or other United Way chapters.
• For each designation outside of the standard United Way funded programs, there is a $100 or 15% administrative fee, whichever is less.
• The gift must be a minimum of $50 per agency, with a maximum of four designations.

The United Way of Central New York will also be collecting donations at the as a part of the overall University Giving Campaign for the United Way.