Why I Give

Supporters of Empire State University are passionate about why they give. Read the stories behind their gifts.

When you meet James ’79 and Christine ’93 Karcher, you will hear them sing the praises of their shared alma mater. SUNY Empire, they agree, “was the highlight of our academic careers.”

Patricia Fralick '01, '14

Alumna Patricia Fralick ’01, ’14 has led a life devoted to a career of service. From her first professional role as a Licensed Practical Nurse to her current position as Executive Director of Lewis County Community Services in Lowville, NY, Pat credits her two SUNY Empire degrees with her ability to rise both professionally and personally.

Althea Luehrsen '02, '10

Althea Luehrsen is a double alumna, with degrees from the Niagara Frontier Center and the School for Graduate Studies. She currently is Executive Director of Leadership Buffalo and owner of Strategic Solutions Group.

Rodney Pope

Rodney Pope never took a class at Empire State University. He’s not a member of a board, the faculty, or the staff. All the same, the mission and programs resonate with him, and along with his wife Robin Stone, he’s become one of the college’s most enthusiastic champions.

Jeffrey Pascal '90, '92

Along with practicing Kung Fu and judo, extreme skiing in the European Alps, studying five languages, and teaching himself computer programming, Jeffrey Pascal ’90, ’92 wanted to be an acupuncturist. But first, he needed a college degree. Empire State University turned out to be the perfect fit.

Our Scholarship Donors

More than 100 individuals and organizations have established endowed and annually-funded scholarships.