The Daily Bulletin Archive

Please give generously to the 2008 annual Faculty and Staff Appeal. This year, the Faculty and Staff Appeal Committee hopes to increase both the amount of money raised and the number of donors.

“Over the years, this appeal has raised more than $1.2 million,” said Claire Collier, director of special projects and coordinator of the Faculty and Staff Appeal Committee. “We hope to add $165,000 this year.”

Why should you give? “For the basic reasons,” said Collier. “We are an excellent institution. We have excellent faculty and dedicated staff. And we have hardworking students who want to make something of their lives.” 

The Right Thing
Many participants give out of a sense of conviction. Rita Zientek, ’90, associate dean of the School of the Professions, started her career as a temp in the Registrar’s Office. She said, “I give for several reasons: First, I give because it is the right thing to do. Second, I give to higher education because I believe in its power. Third, I give to Buffalo State College because the college mission resonates with me. My three sisters and I all began our quest for better lives here at Buff State. The college did not let us down; it transformed our lives.”

With hundreds of funds from which to choose, it’s easy to find one that matches your own philanthropic interests. Felix Armfield, associate professor of history and social studies education, takes advantage of the appeal to support the Monroe Fordham Regional History Center. “I believe in the work of the Fordham Center,” he said, “and its mission helps us make the most of our town and gown relationship with Buffalo.”

Rebecca Schenk, ’77, director of budget and internal controls, is among those who have donated since the appeal’s first payroll deduction in May 1988. She supports several funds, including the Buffalo State College Child Care Center. “When I was treasurer of the Child Care Center,” she said, “I saw that, without it, our students who have young children might not be able to attend college.”

Schenk also supports the college’s Venture Fund because its funds can be used where the need is greatest. “I believe very strongly in our president,” said Schenk, “and so I want to support those things that she considers important.”

Many faculty and staff members support scholarships and awards. For many students, including those in the All College Honors Program, receiving a scholarship is the reason they decide to attend Buffalo State. Even modest scholarships mean more hours available to students for study and college life.

To find out more about any of the funds, please contactClaire Collier, (716) 878-5206.

Goals and Giving Options
A gift of $136—one for each of Buffalo State’s years since its 1871 founding—enables you to become a member of the Anniversary Club, the lowest giving level acknowledged in the college’s annual report. The President’s Circle is another popular option.

Please be as generous as possible. However, bear in mind that for less than a dollar a pay period, you can celebrate the appeal’s 20th anniversary with $20 and support the cause of higher education at Buffalo State in any way you choose.