Grateful students and their proud scholarship donors gathered in the Marcelle Athletic Complex during Siena’s 23rd annual Scholarship Appreciation Dinner. It’s an annual tradition that began as a small gathering almost a quarter-century ago. The dinner has blossomed to become a celebration of Siena’s 285 endowed scholarships.
“Scholarships are the lifeblood of Siena College,” said Director of Stewardship and Donor Relations Ruth Richards. “Endowed Scholarships ensure that Siena is accessible and affordable. Scholarships have made – and continue to make – a difference in the lives of countless Siena students.”
The program included remarks from hosts and scholarship recipients Gladys Veloz ’14, Tom Kaczmarek ’15 and Siena College President Fr. Kevin Mullen ’75, O.F.M., Ph.D. Veloz and Kaczmarek are among the 86% of Siena College students who receive scholarship aid.
The formal program also included a video presentation featuring Siena alumnus and scholarship donors Brian and Amanda Bull and their scholarship recipient Katie Risolo ’14.
Living Our Tradition: The Campaign for Siena College set a $10 million goal for its Scholarship and Endowed Funds initiative. Siena has already exceeded that goal and has received more than $11 million in donations to date.
“Our scholarship donors give from the heart because they know a Siena education changes lives,” Richards said.
