The-Laker-Issue3-Fall-2020

the LAKER | 15 FLCC FOUNDATION 2019-2020 The FLCC Foundation connects people by engaging alumni and friends in projects that help first-generation, underrepresented and other determined students fulfill their potential. This report acknowledges all those who made a difference for students during the 2019-2020 fiscal year, which ended June 30. Learn more about the Foundation at give.flcc.edu . annual report COVID-19 campaign raises nearly $70K for students in crisis As the world shifted under students’ feet in March, the FLCC Foundation marshaled the college and wider community to provide some stability. The Foundation, which fosters private sector support for the College and its students, launched a campaign on April 7 to support students who had suddenly lost access to campus computer labs or lost their jobs. The response was swift. “We are nearly halfway to our goal of 200 donors, and it has been just one day!” FLCC President Robert Nye wrote to FLCC employees that evening. “I am so heartened by your generosity and support for our students.” The Foundation raised $34,874 in contributions to the Barb Etzel Student Loan Fund, the COVID-19 Fund, Jane’s Fund, the Bridge Fund, and the Food Cupboard. All emergency fund contributions made between April and June were matched by the SUNY Impact Foundation, resulting in $69,748 for FLCC students facing financial hardship. The loan fund provides short-term, no interest loans while Jane’s Fund provides grants where a loan is not practical. The bridge fund covers students with cash flow problems, for example delays in financial aid. By early September, the Foundation had distributed more than $40,000 to meet students’ specific needs. “Supporters of FLCC are providing more than just monetary donations, they’re giving students the ability to remain focused on their goals when unexpected difficulties arise. Every student deserves a fighting chance and our priority is to respond in a meaningful way,” said Brie Chupalio, director of development. “We couldn’t do that without support from loyal donors. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this effort and to the future of FLCC.” Students apply for the funding through the FLCC Community Standards and Counseling Office, which works with the Foundation to respond to each student’s needs. HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2019—20 35th Annual Constellation Brands Scholarship Dinner (September): 164 scholarships totaling $163,500 were awarded to incoming, returning, and graduating students. Scholarship amounts ranged from $300 to full tuition. Lacrosse Alumni Game and Reunion (October): Over 40 Laker alumni returned to campus to compete against the current Laker lacrosse team on the new turf fields. The alumni team won and celebrated afterwards at a gathering at a nearby sports bar and grill. 5th Annual Vintners & Valentines (March): 27 Finger Lakes wineries were represented at this annual event in support of FLCC’s viticulture and wine technology and hospitality programs. Over $65,000 was raised. Early College Scholars Program: The FLCC Foundation provided funding for this program in which rising high school juniors and seniors and homeschooled students who are income-eligible received up to 100 percent off tuition for FLCC summer classes.