HISTORY
Buffalo State has a proud tradition of participating in the New York State Employees Federated Appeal (SEFA) Campaign, showcasing its commitment to supporting both local and global communities. This long-standing involvement reflects the institution’s core values of community engagement, social responsibility, and service. The SEFA campaign has become an integral part of Buffalo State’s culture, inspiring employees to embrace the spirit of giving back and making a meaningful difference.
The annual campaign is more than just a fundraising effort—it serves as a reminder of the campus community’s shared social responsibilities. Over the past 20 years, (2004–2024), Buffalo State has raised more than $2.5 million in charitable donations, a testament to its enduring commitment to the SEFA campaign. These efforts align seamlessly with Buffalo State's mission to empower individuals, strengthen society, and foster a culture of service and charitable giving.
Celebrating the Spirit of Giving: A Tribute to Our SEFA Ambassadors and Community
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the SEFA ambassadors for their dedication to this campaign and tireless efforts in gathering donations from their departments. This year, we were inspired by the voluntary testimonies of so many of our colleagues who brought their personal spirit into the process of giving. That spirit reminds us that the excellence of Buffalo State is grounded in its people. Our extraordinary campus community and retirees increased pledges, accepted rollover contributions, donated prizes, and brought an authenticity to this campaign through their personal stories. Thanks to your collective efforts, we have exceeded last year's total, making this year's campaign an incredible success.
Those of us who shared personal stories about why they chose to contribute to an agency represented in the 2024 SEFA Campaign are listed below. From our hearts to yours, thank you. If you missed these stories, you may read them here:
2024 SEFA Campaign: 'Why We Give'
- Wendy Paterson, Dean School of Education and Applied Professions - November 21, 2024; "During this holiday season, you have no doubt noticed how much unsolicited mail you get from a variety of worthy causes. It is indeed the time of year when our hearts are most open to giving. However, neither the season nor a temporary sense of guilt over one's personal privilege should be the motivation to give. We participate in the SEFA/United Way campaign not for our own self-satisfaction at being generous, but because it is simply the right thing to do. We are indeed the keepers of our brothers and sisters. I consider this a gift I give as a member of the family of humanity and the larger family of life on this planet. Because I cannot do all that needs to be done by myself, I give to the agencies in the United Way who will use my donation to do that work." - Wendy Paterson
- Maria Garrity, Sr. Systems Programmer, Information Technology - November 26, 2024; "I give to charity because my heart goes out to those in need. It's not just one charity I support during the SEFA campaign, but several, all of which have touched me and my family at one time or another. What I truly appreciate about this campaign being offered at work is that it allows me to make a difference in multiple areas at once, while also contributing as part of the Buffalo State community. As a single mom in the nineties, I faced many challenges, but I was blessed to have the support of family and friends. Now that my son, whom I held in my arms so many years ago, is well into his career and my wonderful husband supports me every day, I'm able to give back. I give because I want to and feel compelled to. I give because I believe these charities must continue to thrive for those who have nowhere else to turn. It's my way of paying forward the blessings I've received, and I hope others can experience the same hope and help." - Maria Garrity
- Andrew Binder, Director of Operations, Buffalo State Performing Arts Center - December 3, 2024; My donation this year is in honor of my mom, Nancy Binder, who passed away at the age of 72 last November from a rare and aggressive cancer. I chose to donate to two organizations. The American Association of Cancer Research works to find new treatments for all types of cancers. I hope one day the cancer my mom had has more treatment options and those faced with the diagnosis can live a longer life. And the Hospice Foundation of America provides care and dignity to those in their final months and weeks of a terminal illness and also provides assistance and grief support to immediate family before and after their loved one's passing. My mom was grateful to Hospice for its help in her final weeks and my family and I have been grateful to the support Hospice has provided us as well. It means a lot to be able to donate to both of these organizations in memory of my mom, Nancy. - Andrew Binder, Director of Operations
- Tricia Herritt, Director International Student and Scholar Services - December 2, 2024; "For the past 26 years I have given to SEFA as a SUNY employee. My first donation was $10 a paycheck. It is easy to give to a variety of charities, locally and statewide that make a difference in other's lives. I encourage my fellow SUNY colleagues to start giving just a few dollars a check and make an impact in our local community." - Tricia Herritt
- Holly Quicksey, Director of Transfer Advising - December 4, 2024; "The Buffalo State Child Care Center holds a special place in my heart because of the incredible care and support my grandson has received there. I've seen firsthand how their dedication and nurturing environment can transform a child's day and provide peace of mind to families. Yet, there's so much more this amazing center could do with a little extra help. The Buffalo State Child Care Center urgently needs updates like a new playground, classroom materials, and furniture to create an even better space for learning and play. With more staffing, the center could open additional classrooms and extend its hours to serve transfer students better and others juggling the demands of school, work, and parenthood. What began as a heartfelt connection became a mission to rally support for these essential improvements. Your donations through the SEFA appeal can help turn these needs into reality, directly impacting the lives of children and families in our campus community. - Holly Quicksey, Director of Transfer Advising
- Amitra A. Wall, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs - December 5, 2024; "I give because I want to fulfill the command to love my neighbor as yourself. I have been entrusted with resources, opportunities, and privileges, and I understand that these blessings come with the duty to serve others. I allow Luke 12:48 (to whom much is given, much will be required) to guide my thoughts. The words of sociologist Anna Julia Cooper resonate deeply with me: "The cause of freedom is not the cause of a race or a class; it is the cause of humanity." Cooper's vision reminds me that service is deeply interconnected. My giving is not just about charity; it's about solidarity and care for the collective good of humanity. I embrace Patricia Hill Collins notion of the "ethics of care" within communities, where the survival and thriving of individuals are intricately tied to the well-being of the collective. In her words, "Caring is a fundamental aspect of the way we organize our lives" and I see giving and serving as a powerful way of living out that ethic. By giving, I contribute to a web of care that strengthens the entire community, fostering connection, support, and mutual flourishing. Ultimately, I give not for recognition or reward, but because it is an act of gratitude and a way to align my life with the principles of faith, hope, and love. Through my giving, I carry forward the work of those who came before me and walk alongside me, and I contribute to building a future where everyone can experience dignity and opportunity." - Amitra A. Wall
- Natalie Wills, Office Assistant, Teaching and Learning Center- December 6, 2024; "I choose to give to SEFA/United Way because I have witnessed some of the organizations that benefit from our donations by helping others in many different situations. In these trying times, it is good to know there are services available to help people in need, no matter what the needs may be." - Natalie Wills
- Alice Villaseñor ,Director, Civic and Community Engagement - December 9, 2024; The SEFA Campaign makes it convenient to donate to so many worthy organizations. I choose to give to FeedMore WNY because they provide basic necessities to our community. My spouse worked for FeedMore (back when they were the Foodbank of WNY), and I have always been impressed with the dedication of all of the staff. Now, as I get to know their staff through their community-engagement work with Buffalo State, I am even more impressed with their commitment. The buying power of the Foodbank network is incredible too; the organization is able to use our donations to make a much bigger impact in the community than we could make as individual consumers. FeedMore hosts several fundraisers and donation events throughout the year, and our family loves to participate in these initiatives as well. But the United Way SEFA campaign makes it easy to donate what this agency needs most: a steady flow of cash donations to purchase much-needed supplies for our community." - Alice Villaseñor
- Valerie Celenza, Information Technology Exchange Center (ITEC) - December 10, 2024; "The charity I choose to support during the SEFA campaign, is the Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club. It helps me stay connected to my dad. He dedicated his life to giving back to the community through his work at the Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club. He lived by example and was loved by so many for his generosity. Supporting the organization, he cared so deeply about keeps me close to him and helps keep his memory alive. The agency code for Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club is 57-00241." - Valerie Celenza
- Diane Dillion, Lecturer, Computer Information Systems - December 11, 2024; "Before teaching at Buffalo State, I spent many years in corporate America as an IT executive. During that time, I ran many large, successful campaigns for the United Way at my company. One of those years, I had the pleasure of working with Buffalo State's former beloved president, Muriel Howard, who was running the campaign for all of Buffalo and Erie County. During campaigns, we always stressed this fact with our employees, 'you never know when you might need United Way services. On 9/11/2001, I was on a business trip in California. While there, I received a call from the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County. Somehow, they heard that my company had over 10 people visiting customers in the twin towers on 9/11. The United Way wanted to know how they could help us. Miraculously, all of our employees escaped that day, and we were able to get them home quickly. However, I will never cease to be amazed at the way the United Way was able to proactively reach out without being called. It's like they have radar when it's time to help. I remain a leadership giver until this day." - Diane Dillon, Lecturer, Computer Information Systems
We warmly invite you to share your reasons for giving, and we'll feature them in the Daily. Please send your thoughts to campaign co-chairs Wendy Paterson, dean of the School of Education, or Maria C. Garrity, senior systems programmer in Information Technology. We're currently about halfway to our campus goal. Let's keep the momentum going! To donate, please go to the e-pledge system and click "Forgot user ID or password" to begin the process, even if you are rolling over your pledge from last year. We are pleased to offer these links to the stories of your colleagues who offered their personal testimony for the “Why We Give” segment of the Daily Bulletin:
Wendy Paterson, Dean School of Education and Applied Professions - November 10, 2023; "I have always found that the ease of giving to the SEFA/United Way Campaign allows me to honor my father, Donald W. Paterson, who was not a wealthy man, but whose legacy of leadership lives on in the Niagara Frontier Boy Scouts of America. Giving to them through the United Way is my way to thank my Dad for all he and other men like him do for young men and women who benefit from mentors like him. I encourage you to give to a United Way agency to provide a living tribute to someone you love." —Wendy Paterson
Maria Garrity, Sr. Systems Programmer, Information Technology - November 13, 2023; "For over two decades, I've dedicated my time to the SEFA Campaign while working in the Information Technology Department, driven by a profound sense of humanity. My commitment extends beyond the confines of Buffalo State, embracing the wider community we collectively call home. During my time as an adjunct in the Computer Information Systems Department, I consistently instilled in my students the importance of giving back to our community. I firmly believe that contributing to the improvement of our surroundings is a collective and shared responsibility, one that yields benefits for everyone involved. Now, as SEFA co-chair, my commitment is deeply rooted in the well-being of Buffalo State, its faculty and staff, and the broader community. That is why I give through this campaign and not directly through another source. Every dollar helps, and your contribution makes a meaningful impact. Please consider giving through this campaign to a charity of your choice." —Maria Garrity
Laura Hill Rao, Community Partnerships and Engagement - November 14, 2023; “Buffalo State has so many amazing community partners who provide community-engaged learning, civic experiences, internships, and direct services to our students. Donating to these organizations through the SEFA/United Way Campaign is an important way to honor the ways these organizations support our students’ educational experiences. I encourage you to support an organization that collaborates with your department or supports our students and give in honor of that partnership!” —Laura Hill Rao
Timothy Gordon - November 15, 2023; “I give because I would like to help everyone have access to food and support in their lives so that they may thrive. I do this in honor of all that my family provided me and for all of the support I have received in being the caregiver of folks who have additional needs. I have been blessed to have received a good education and support from my family and want to do my part to help others by supporting organizations like FeedMore WNY, the Buffalo State Child Care Center, and People Inc.” —Tim Gordon
Greg Wadsworth and Jack Byrnes - November 16, 2023; “We give to support the legacy of a dear friend and colleague at Buffalo State, Dr. Jim Haynes. Jim was one of a small group of men and women in Western New York who risked their careers and well-being to work fearlessly for LGBTQ+ rights. His activism for civil rights and AIDS education saved lives. He was a hero in our midst. Giving to SEFA allows us to continue Jim’s legacy by supporting one of the organizations that he helped found, Gay and Lesbian Youth Services of Western New York. Please consider memorializing a hero in your life by giving through the SEFA Campaign.” —Greg Wadsworth and Jack Byrnes
Susan Rubino, School of Education and Applied Professions - November 17, 2023; “I consider myself very fortunate and try to give back whenever possible. I appreciate the ease with which SEFA payroll deduction allows me to do that. To honor my Uncle Larry, a warm-hearted gentleman and Vietnam vet, and to show my deep appreciation of all veterans, especially those who need our help, I contribute to Disabled American Veterans and Homes for Our Troops.” —Sue Rubino
Lisa Krieger, Interim Vice President for Management and Operations- November 20, 2023; “As a long-tenured Buffalo State employee, I have been contributing in a small way to the SEFA Campaign for decades, but I feel it makes a big impact. I remember thinking it was fun to peruse the SEFA booklet (PDF, 10 MB) of participating agencies and decide where my dollars would go. I really appreciate being able to designate my contribution to local entities who make a difference in my community. The past few years, I have been designating to the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Western New York. It feels great to know that my contributions help ensure that families in our own community never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Everywhere we go, we engage with colleagues, friends, our students, and family members who benefit from the services of SEFA agencies. I hope you will join me in taking just a few minutes to click through the options and doing your part to make a difference.” -Lisa Krieger
Andrew T. Garrity Associate Database Administrator, Information Technology- November 21, 2023; “I contribute because I believe it’s the right action for the betterment of our community and to support those in need. The SEFA Booklet offers several federated charities to choose from, and utilizing payroll deduction eases the impact on your pay. Witnessing the efforts of the campus in this campaign, I can attest that our students and community genuinely benefits from the generosity and commitment demonstrated year after year.” —Andrew Garrity
Celestine Simmons - November 22, 2023; “I am a firm believer that every little bit helps. The imbalance of this world saddens me. The inequity is disheartening at times. Many have an overabundance while others barely have enough to get by daily. I pray for those who struggle day to day. I have seen their plight and I have experienced it. If everyone would try to give just a little if they are able to, everyone would have what they need. I might sound overly optimistic, but that is what I believe. In the meantime, I ask myself, how can I help now? I give of my time, but is there something little I can sacrifice, something monetary, to give someone something they need? That is why I give. I am grateful that I have benefited from the generosity of others and now I have the circumstances to give. Together, even with the smallest of sacrifices, we can make a big impact.” —Celestine Simmons
Yanick Jenkins, Director Equal Opportunity Program - November 28, 2023; “I give without a specific reason; it feels like the natural thing to do. In the grand scheme, the more I give, the more I receive, and that’s how I believe the universe works. I find my purpose when my community flourishes.” —Yanick Jenkins
Katie Morales - November 30, 2023; “I give to SEFA because it’s an easy way to donate to multiple charities of my choice. The biweekly deduction option makes it convenient to keep giving throughout the year, and it feels good to know that I’m helping those in need!” —Katie Morales
Charles Arbutina, Lecturer, Computer Information Systems - December 4, 2023; “I give to charity during the SEFA Campaign annually because I deeply believe in their mission and the goals of their diverse programs and want to give back to the community.” —Chuck Arbutina
Kelly Marczynski, Institute for Community Health Promotion (ICHP)- December 5, 2023; “I would donate to a charity within SEFA regardless, as countless people suffer from such horrible diseases that require more research dollars so they can be studied in hopes of a cure, or at least better treatment. Specifically, my sister was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 26 years ago, and so my donation goes to the National MS Association. While I cannot say for certain that anything of significant impact to her has been developed, I can say that she is grateful for my contribution to this cause.” — Kelly Marczynski
Kathy Ralabate Doody, Professor Exceptional Education Department - December 7, 2023; “There are several reasons why I feel it is important to participate in the United Way SEFA Campaign. I value service in my professional and personal life and feel that participating in the SEFA Campaign is a natural extension of that service commitment. Engaging in service and donating to local organizations allow me to support programs and initiatives that I value most, those that make an impact on the lives of others. As a special educator, I also value inclusive practices. The SEFA Campaign is committed to equity, inclusion, and diversity, supporting all who could benefit regardless of demographics. I embrace the opportunity to effectuate positive changes and give back to others while increasing my civic engagement through charitable giving and service.” —Kathy Ralabate Doody
Tracey and Michael Anderson - December 8, 2023; "We give to SEFA because it's important to help others. There are so many organizations to donate to, and everyone at one time or another has had some kind of interaction with them, if not for yourself, a family member, friend, your pets, etc. Help others today. "—Tracey and Michael Anderson
Ken Fujiuchi, Emerging Technology Librarian, Buffalo State College Senate Chair -December 12, 2023; “Donating to the United Way SEFA Campaign is a great way to make a positive impact. SEFA provides support to organizations that help people in need. It also brings people together to address issues that governments and businesses may need help to solve. Even small donations can make a difference. Show your support for the causes you care about and help these organizations create a positive impact on people's lives.” —Ken Fujiuchi
Rita Sumers, Nurse, Weigel Health Center - December 13, 2023; “The reason I give is simple yet profound—I believe the world needs more kindness. People willing to share what they can to ensure that those in need receive support. In tough times, if my contribution can help in health care or advance research for curing disorders, I am more than willing to give, with love in my heart and a smile on my face. Blessings to all.” —Rita L. Sumers
From the SEFA Committee: We extend our deepest gratitude to each of you who took the time to share with your colleagues the personal reasons behind your generous contributions to the 2023 SEFA Campaign. Your spirit of giving exemplifies the collective strength of our Buffalo State University community. We know that your inspiring testimony has had a positive impact on the campaign. As the title “United Way” describes exactly how this works, it is only by working together that we promote and prioritize a culture of care and support not only on this campus but in the entire extended community.
To all donors, we are profoundly thankful for your responding to the call. The term philanthropy is from the Greek, meaning “love for humankind.” Your support demonstrates your love and care for people you may or may not know. Such regard for humankind is much in demand.
To the SEFA ambassadors, many thanks for contributing your time and talents to yet another successful campaign. Without your willingness to add this responsibility to your already busy days, we could not have accomplished what we have as a campus.
2023 SEFA Campaign Closes at End of Business - Thank You! | The Daily Bulletin Archive