Write Your Own Giving Story
Your gift will have a significant impact on scholarships, facilities, research opportunities and faculty hiring—indeed, it will be felt in every quarter of the College.
Consider these members of the Union family who serve as examples of the power of giving, both for the donor and the recipient:
Supporting Student Leaders
Jodi Schwartz '11, a Mechanical Engineering major and Converging Technology Scholar, is committed to green awareness. A scholarship recipient, Schwartz serves as a member of Union's Sustainability Committee and as environmental chair of her sorority. "Union has put a lot of thoughts into my head about things I could do and things that need to be done," says Schwartz, who looks toward a career that will in some way help solve the world's waste management problem. Her Union experience was immeasurably enhanced by scholarship support from generous alumni.
Furthering Research
Andrew Morris, Associate Professor of History, and his assistant, Scott Power, '11, are uncovering extensive evidence of the WPA's physical legacy within the city of Schenectady, from road and sewer repair to the renovation of the municipal golf course. This kind of research, which rescues history from being lost and benefits established and budding scholars alike, is made possible by gifts that enhance the academic experience.
Staying Connected
The worldwide economic downturn has left many schools and nonprofits with fundraising shortfalls and shrinking endowments. Evan Gouzie, '06, a young alumnus who maintains strong ties to Union, realizes that his participation in alumni giving is integral to the College's continued success. "I hope I can continue to help Union and its students through future donations and active participation in alumni events," Gouzie says.
Inspiring Others
Olivia Leong '01, a scholarship recipient who earned her B.A. in Economics from Union and her M.B.A. from Union Graduate College in 2002, is now a vice president at GE Capital Markets. "Union always felt like home to me, from the moment I first visited as a high school senior," says Leong, who has been her class's Annual Fund co-chair since graduation. "The College gave me a strong foundation and many tools to build my career and my life. I feel compelled to give back."
Launching Lives
Ellen Rasmussen, '75, gives to the Annual Fund because Union was incredibly important in her personal development, maturity and career growth. She was the first member of her family to attend college—an achievement that financial aid made possible. "My education was superb," says Rasmussen. "And because of my education, I was recruited for my first job directly through the College."
Making a Difference
In this challenging economy, our alumni can help enormously by making even a modest donation—that's the "power of many" at work. "People who may only be able to give $50, $20, $10, $5 or even $1 still help the College," says Leslie Okladek Seff '79. "Everyone should express their own appreciation of Union in their own way."
