St. Joseph’s University, New York fundraised for its students this Thanksgiving season through its annual Giving Tuesday campaign on Tuesday, Nov. 29, with donors gifting more than $33,000.
Those interested in showing their gratitude for the University — whether they attended and are grateful for the education they received, they have a loved one currently attending, or they just appreciate the overall mission of St. Joseph’s and its efforts in the local community — chose from three projects that directly support its students.
“So many great projects and programs on our campus, like the Emergency Fund and the S.U.R.F. research program, only exist because of the generosity of our alumni, faculty, staff and friends,” said Flavio Bollag, executive director of development in the Office of Institutional Advancement at St. Joseph’s. “We are really honored and humbled to be part of the process that funds important parts of the SJNY experience and directly connects our donors to our students’ lives.”
This year’s Giving Tuesday helped raise money for students who face unexpected challenges during their time at St. Joseph’s. Funds raised will also go toward assisting undergraduate students who conduct their own research and sports teams at the Brooklyn and Long Island campuses.
“I think St. Joe’s is a special place because so many people think and care about helping someone else and making a change for the better,” Bollag said. “Being part of a philanthropic campaign like Giving Tuesday is just one way that our community lives that promise in very simple, quick actions — that really make a difference.”
Student Emergency Fund
Dozens of promising students struggle to pay their tuition and stay on track with their studies. The majority of St. Joseph’s University students have to work as they are pursuing their degrees, just as most of our alumni have.
Many current SJNY students are also the first in their family to attend college, similar to so many of our alumni. When these dedicated students face the challenge of illness or caring for a family member, they often need assistance to remain at St. Joseph’s. The Student Emergency Fund helps these students stay on track for graduation, even when facing a crisis situation.
This project surpassed its goal of $2,500, with more than 50 supporters helping it reach over $4,500.
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (S.U.R.F.)
Eligible students apply to receive a paid summer stipend to spend time in the lab, in the field or in the library — doing their own research on their topic. So many students struggle to balance their academic interests with the need to work long hours.
A competitive stipend helps students be able to prioritize research — and learn in the field with their professors. Donors’ support makes all the difference; $4,000 fully funds one summer research stipend for one student.
S.U.R.F., which ran as project on Giving Day in April 2022, has already proven extremely beneficial for St. Joseph’s students and their interest in research. Thanks to generous donors, three students had the opportunity to conduct research this past summer.
“Each student agreed their experiences in the fellowship had increased their interest both in conducting research and in attending graduate school,” said Michael Magee, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology and director of undergraduate research at the Brooklyn Campus. “In fact, two out of the three awardees indicated that they are now planning a career in research.”
The third student, who is pursuing a career in education, is considering the many ways research can help enhance her future classroom.
More than 15 donors supported S.U.R.F., raising over $1,400 for undergraduate students to conduct research.
Athletics
St. Joseph’s University student-athletes at the Brooklyn and Long Island campuses excel academically while contributing to our NCAA Division III collegiate sports programs. Donor support allows individual teams to purchase equipment, expand training opportunities and enhance athletic facilities.
SJNY student-athletes perform their best when they have resources to support them in their chosen sport and in the classroom. Your donation to SJNY athletics helps offset the costs of travel expenses, facility improvement, apparel, equipment and academic support.
Donors gave more than $11,400 for Brooklyn athletic teams and more than $16,400 for teams at the Long Island Campus.
