Stories of opportunities rising
We believe every individual can make a difference if given the opportunity. Geneseo’s vision recognizes the power of a liberal arts education to create connections and solve problems.
A Generous Gift Empowers a First-Generation Scientist
The ethos of a Geneseo experience is deeply rooted in a supportive community and long-lasting relationships. Hannah Visca ’17 knows this well. She is a beneficiary of a first-rate education and the generous support of—at least initially—total strangers. Visca, a...
Renovate to Innovate: Milne Library Will Open Opportunities
Because the library is a key player in students’ success, we’re working on renovations to the Milne building. Phase Two of construction began in late 2022, and we’re on track to have Milne Library open during the 2024-25 academic year.
An Endowed Scholarship Inspired by Friendship
Joseph Carr was looking for a roommate for the second semester of his first year at Geneseo, and by happenstance, Mark Zimmer ’82 needed a room. It was the beginning of a long friendship, one that Carr has valued so much through the years that he has created a...
The Isgros’ Legacy: Caring for Future Generations of Music Students
A monumental presence in the SUNY Geneseo community for decades, Bob "Doc" Isgro, SUNY Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Music, who died last March, and his wife, Mary Isgro, were known for building strong ties with students. Since 1963, Bob, with Mary by...
Rev. Jim Swarts ’71 Provides Opportunities for Transformation
Rev. Jim Swarts ’71 landed on the Geneseo campus after six years in the U.S. Navy. He graduated as a much different person. “I would not have become who I am today had it not been for my experience at Geneseo. I became a person much more willing to give than receive.”...
Creating Opportunities for Generations of Students
John Merchant ’70, who earned Bachelor of Science degrees in elementary education and biology from SUNY Geneseo, is recognized by the College as one of our most generous donors. In addition to annual gifts and creating an endowed scholarship in 2008, John recently...
Building Others Up through Education and Philanthropy
Jeff Clarke ’83 and his spouse, Suzette, are longtime supporters of SUNY Geneseo. They have been at the heart of engaging Geneseo alums for years, and Jeff’s participation on the Geneseo Foundation Board of Directors was critical to the Shaping Lives of Purpose...
Paying it Forward for Professor Hatheway
By Paul Peterman ’80 In my years as a geology major at SUNY Geneseo, I was fortunate to study with professors both inside and outside of my major department who made a lasting impression on me. They were not only experts in their respective fields, but they were both...
Stepping Stones for Future Students
Sharon Bonk ‘65, who earned bachelor’s Sharon Bonk from 1965 in library science and elementary education at SUNY Geneseo, has more than 40 years of experience in the many facets of librarianship, including managing libraries and book collections for researchers and...
Supporting Transformative Experiences
Doug ’89 and Stephanie Nelson ’89 Dickman met as first-year students in the Geneseo Chamber Singers, a premier ensemble that has earned regional, national, and international reputations for its performances. “We would meet at choir at 5 o’clock, and a group of us...
Scholarship for Music Students Created in Memory of William D. Leyerle
An endowed scholarship for SUNY Geneseo music students has been established by Betty Leyerle, the sister of William “Will” or “Bill” D. Leyerle, retired lecturer in the department of music, who passed away on June 27, 2020. A gift of $100,000 was made by Betty to...
It’s our responsibility to ensure that our future generations not only persevere but prosper. With your support, we will elevate access to a Geneseo education, create experiences that prepare our students for a rewarding career, and demonstrate the impact our graduates make on the world.