The entire State University of New York at Fredonia campus and community will be recognized virtually by the Fredonia College Foundation for their efforts to raise money in support of students at a time of need during the coronavirus pandemic, when National Philanthropy Day is commemorated in Western New York today.

“With the support of our campus community and our many loyal alumni and donors, we were able to raise approximately $191,000 to support Fredonia’s students,” said Betty Gossett, executive director of the foundation. “We are privileged to honor SUNY Fredonia for the tireless dedication of our administration, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The Student Emergency Relief Fund was established by the foundation to financially assist students who faced unexpected expenses related to the pandemic and to alleviate hardships related to moving to a digital education format.

Donations of food and everyday necessities to assist students were also received by the Student Health Center. The Faculty Student Association provided meals for students, resident assistants helped to supervise proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) use by students, and faculty jumped to a digital platform to communicate and continue to teach students. Offices were well equipped with hand-sanitizers, masks and appropriate rules to follow to prevent the spread of the virus.

“We want to pay tribute to all of our campus employees, community and alumni who donated to the Student Emergency Relief Fund during a time of critical need on campus,” said June Miller-Spann, director of Development.

More information about the virtual celebration is available online at https://community.afpnet.org/afpwny/npdwny/npd-wny-details.