Impact of Your Gift

My name is Jim Doig, class of 1975. I’ve been a director on the State University of New York at Oneonta Foundation board for the last 8 years, having served in several capacities during that time. I’m currently privileged to be the president of the board, a term I just started at the beginning of this July 2021 fiscal year, for a period of 2 years.

The Foundation plays an increasing critical role in supporting students and programs at SUNY Oneonta. Through the years, the Foundation has grown into a meaningful source of funding, providing scholarships and internships for students, as well as support for research programs and conferences, along with several other types of financial assistance. We’re very proud of what we do. Without the Foundation, many students may not even be able to attend SUNY Oneonta or would leave school burdened with a much higher level of debt to repay.

We’re in the final months of a five-year campaign to raise at least $25 million to increase the size of our endowment. I’m so pleased to be able to report that we have surpassed that amount. This obviously wouldn’t be possible without the support of many, many donors, many of whom are Oneonta alumni. If you have already given to the success of this campaign, thank you . . . you’ve helped make a significant difference in the lives of a great number of students. I’ve had a lot of enjoyment attending functions where the student beneficiaries have had a chance to express their appreciation, and I can assure you that all the dollars coming into, and then out of, the Foundation have really expanded and magnified these student’s college experiences. It’s life-changing, with both immediate and long-term returns.

My name is Drew McKay, class of 2005. I’ve been a Director on the Alumni Board for the past 7 years, having served in several capacities during that time.  I am honored to be the current President of the Alumni Board, a term I started at the beginning of the July 2022 fiscal year.  Being a member of the Board gives me the opportunity to continue to be involved with the SUNY Oneonta “family” on a more meaningful level.  As a legacy alumnus, SUNY Oneonta has been a part of my life since I was 10 years old when my sister attended school here.  This opportunity seemed like a great way to continue the long relationship I have had with Oneonta.

The Alumni Board is instrumental in supporting the mission of SUNY Oneonta.  I, along with my fellow Board Members, support the university financially and by bringing each of our professions’ strengths, which allows our students to grow intellectually, thrive socially, and live purposefully.

The Campaign – Grow. Thrive. Live., has surpassed the goal of $25 million which will increase our endowment. This is only possible because of the support of our Oneonta Alumni and Friends. I thank those of you who have provided support and ask any of you who haven’t to consider doing so. You will provide an opportunity to our students that they might not be able to attain without our support. When I see and hear these students speak of their experiences, I am amazed by what they have overcome and have achieved. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that I have provided support for at least a few students.