Past Monthly Newsletters
January 2024
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
The past year certainly proved to be an empowering one. Thanks to you, we provided more than 900 scholarships to hardworking Monroe Community College students, including 16 new scholarship funds, helping them close the chasm between their available resources and the cost of tuition.
Under the leadership of MCC President DeAnna Burt-Nanna, we see the efforts our students make every day. With our collective, laser-like focus on student success, we are moving determinedly forward together to fostering a college-going culture across all ZIP codes of our community where everyone has an opportunity to benefit from MCC’s many innovative offerings and services to achieve. We are proud to have transferred $7.8 million to the College in support of programs, facilities and scholarships including a total of $105,375 in MCC Assist emergency grants awarded to 275 MCC students.
We are grateful that so many of you continued to include the Monroe Community College Foundation in your philanthropic giving plans, allowing us to provide our students with the resources they need to be successful.
Thank you for all that you do to support our students in their quest to succeed through your gifts to the Foundation. Our best to you for a happy and healthy 2024.
STAR POWER SCHOLARSHIP EMPOWERS EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT FOR SINGLE STUDENT-PARENTS AT MCC
Millibel Cotto is one of this year’s recipients of the STAR Power Scholarship. This award supports single student-parents who are head of household and provides the necessary resources to help them cross the finish line to graduation. Millibel assists in the Teaching and Learning Department at the Rochester City School District and provides counseling and crisis intervention services at the School of the Arts.
Millibel (pictured right with Calvin Gantt and Gretchen Wood) was raised in Puerto Rico and was told at age 17 that her life was over when she became pregnant. She believed she had no chance for a future as an unemployed teen mom who is Latina and self-conscious about her English skills. She had lost her job and apartment in 2021 and had no income for months, often times not having enough food for herself and her two sons. She eventually was able to find a new job and was determined to support her children and further her education.
Millibel decided her next step would be to enroll at Monroe Community College. She felt as though her life turned around at that point. Millibel sought out various opportunities and benefits of attending MCC and received the STAR Power Scholarship as well as the Sara Furguson Scholarship that is designed to help students pursue their passion through their educational journey. With these extra support systems in place, she has been able to become a fully independent single mother. Millibel is expecting to graduate in Spring 2024 and continue with her career in helping students at the elementary school level.
YOUR YEAR-END GIVING STATEMENT
While we have sent individual receipts for your gifts as they were made, we also offer to make the tax preparation process a bit easier by supplying you with a Year-End Giving Statement. If you are interested in having a statement prepared, please contact Lisa Fluman (lfluman@a220149.com) at the MCC Foundation and we will be happy to do so. Thank you again for your generous support!
February 2024
STUDENTS IN THE WELDING AND FABRICATION INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM THE VASANT N. ASGAONKAR SCHOLARSHIP
Created in honor of Vasant Asgaonkar and his dedication to fostering the next generation of skilled tradespeople, the Vasant N. Asgaonkar Scholarship awards two scholarships of $2,500 each year to hard-working students in the Welding and Fabrication Industry Certification program. This program teaches the next generation of welders to have the relevant training necessary to get jobs in the exciting and rewarding field of welding. These scholarship recipients must demonstrate an aptitude for and interest in a welding career. This year's scholarship recipients are Alex Stoffelsma and Jason Campbell.
Alex (pictured top right) is a senior at West Irondequoit High School. He recently received honors for the National Technical Honor Society. He will begin the Welding and Fabrication program this fall and chose this field due to the many job opportunities that it will provide.
Jason (pictured top left) is an adult student, looking to start a new career path. Jason began taking classes in the spring semester and feels a sense of accomplishment and excitement each day he comes to class. He is grateful for this scholarship support that is helping him on this journey. It is a sign that he is right where he should be!
Thank you to Vasant Asgaonkar’s daughter and MCC Foundation Director, Lisa Paulis, and her husband, Richard, for making opportunities available for students like Alex and Jason!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 40TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP OPEN PRESENTED BY TOYOTA!
The 40th Annual Scholarship Open will be held at The Country Club of Rochester on Monday, June 24, 2024. This is a sell-out event so do not delay in registering! Tournament Co-Chairs Ed Schuler ’81 and Billy Farmer, along with the Scholarship Open Committee, are planning an excellent day of golf in support of hardworking students at Monroe Community College.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the Scholarship Open webpage. As always, thank you for your support of students at MCC!
AN EXTRA DAY TO CARE THIS YEAR
Would you like to take an extra step of care for Monroe Community College students? Leap into action by creating an estate plan and ensuring a lasting legacy with the Monroe Community College Foundation. Using FreeWill’s online estate planning tool, you can utilize the extra day in 2024 to protect the people you love — and support our mission to ensure that all students have the resources they need to be successful at MCC.
March 2024
NEW SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF SARAH JONES
David and Lynnette Jones, along with a loyal group of family and friends, recently established a scholarship to honor the memory of their daughter, Sarah (pictured right). The Sarah Jones Memorial Endowed Scholarship will support Monroe Community College students who demonstrate academic achievement, volunteer in their community, and embrace Sarah’s enthusiasm for lifelong learning and living every day to the fullest.
Sarah left those she loved way too soon. She is lovingly described by her family as witty, charming, and larger than life. Intelligent, generous, a consummate professional. Champion of the underdog, student of improv, and lover of animals, especially manatees. A caring daughter, sister, and colleague. This scholarship honors her legacy by supporting students who embody Sarah’s spirit, share her thirst for knowledge, and who need an extra boost toward crossing the finish line to their MCC degree.
We are grateful to the Jones family for their generous gift to the Monroe Community College Foundation in Sarah’s memory.
DO YOU KNOW OUTSTANDING MCC ALUMNI?
Each year the Alumni Hall of Fame Committee of the Monroe Community College Foundation considers nominees for the Monroe Community College Alumni Hall of Fame and selects up to four new inductees. Created in 1992, this hall of fame recognizes those alumni who have achieved outstanding success and made a lasting impact on their community. Help us identify the next class of inductees; nominate someone today!
Need inspiration? Take a look at our MCC Alumni Hall of Fame members!
HONOR A REMARKABLE WOMAN WITH A GIFT TO STAR POWER
Looking for a unique gift for Mother’s Day? Consider a contribution to STAR Power in honor of a remarkable woman in your life.
Over the years, the STAR Power Scholarship has eased the financial burden of juggling school, work, and family for more than 60 single student parents at MCC. Your support makes a difference as they strive to create a better life for themselves and their families.
Shyrell Brown (pictured right), one of this year’s recipients, shares how STAR Power has had a positive impact on her MCC experience:
“Thank you for helping me make it possible for me to pursue my dream of becoming an optometrist. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies. I hope to one day become an inspiration to single mothers with a dream. I’ve faced many barriers on this journey; hard work and dedication are the keys to success. Thank you again for your generous contribution.”
Make your Mother’s Day gift to STAR Power and support student parents like Shyrell today. All honorees will receive a special Mother’s Day card from the MCC Foundation. Thank you for your generosity!
16TH ANNUAL SCHOLARS’ DAY PRESENTED BY THE ESL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
Scholars’ Day at Monroe Community College is an event dedicated to showcasing the work of student and faculty researchers. This year’s event will conclude with a keynote presentation from David Wallace-Wells (pictured left). Wallace-Wells is the author of The Uninhabitable Earth, which was named to the New York Times 100 Notable Books of 2019.
In this talk, Wallace-Wells will draw on the findings in this book and explore the near-future we face in the wake of the climate crisis. Even though there will be difficult times ahead, there is still time to mitigate the effects of years of abusing our planet and, most importantly—there is still hope for a livable future for all.
Presented by the ESL Charitable Foundation, the keynote presentation will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in the Robin and Tim Wentworth Arts Building, 1000 East Henrietta Road, Rochester.
This event is made possible by the generosity of the ESL Charitable Foundation, the William & Sheila Konar Foundation, and Dr. Barbara and John Lovenheim.
MCC FOUNDATION AND MCC ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT PARTNER TO RAISE FUNDS FOR WOMEN’S LACROSSE
Monroe Community College’s student-athletes are raising funds to provide the necessary resources they need to travel and compete this spring.
Join the MCC Foundation and MCC Athletics Department as we partner to raise support and help to enrich the college experience for our student-athletes. Your donation will ensure that the MCC Tribunes are well-prepared to represent MCC as they head toward regional and national competitions. Team trips provide a wonderful opportunity for MCC's student-athletes to live, eat and play together and create a bonding experience like no other.
To learn more or to make a gift, visit the women’s lacrosse fundraising webpage.
April 2024
HONOR A REMARKABLE MOTHER WITH A GIFT TO STAR POWER
It's not too late to honor a remarkable woman with a gift to the STAR Power Scholarship. Your support directly benefits single student-parents as they pursue their educational and career goals at Monroe Community College. In fact, 90 percent of STAR Power Scholarship recipients have graduated or remain enrolled at MCC.
Seyda Arslancil is one of this year’s STAR Power scholars. She is a former teacher who enrolled at MCC to change careers so she can better provide for her five-year-old son. Seyda is pursuing her associate of applied science degree in nursing with the ultimate goal of being a nurse practitioner. Thanks to support from STAR Power and other Monroe Community College Foundation scholarships, Seyda is able to work fewer hours so she can focus on her studies and care for her son.
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12. We invite you to consider honoring women like Seyda who juggle a variety of priorities in order to provide their families. All honorees will receive a special Mother’s Day card from the MCC Foundation. Make your gift today!
REGISTER TODAY FOR THE 40TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP OPEN PRESENTED BY TOYOTA
Spring is upon us and so is the season of golf! Join us at The Country Club of Rochester on Monday, June 24, 2024, for the 40th Annual Scholarship Open presented by Toyota. This tournament is limited to 128 golfers and is quickly reaching capacity. Reserve your spot today before all playing slots are filled!
Not interested in golfing? Consider supporting student success at Monroe Community College by being a non-golfing sponsor.
Proceeds from the Scholarship Open support student scholarships, program innovation, and educational excellence at MCC.
16TH ANNUAL SCHOLARS’ DAY PRESENTED BY THE ESL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
There is still time to register for the 16th Annual Scholars' Day presented by the ESL Charitable Foundation! This year’s visiting scholar and keynote speaker is David Wallace-Wells, New York Times Best Selling Author of The Uninhabitable Earth.
In this talk, Wallace-Wells will draw on the findings in this book and explore the near-future we face in the wake of the climate crisis. Even though there will be difficult times ahead, there is still time to mitigate the effects of years of abusing our planet and, most importantly—there is still hope for a livable future for all.
Date: Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Robin and Tim Wentworth Arts Building, Monroe Community College - Brighton Campus, 1000 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, 14623
This event is made possible by the generosity of the ESL Charitable Foundation, the William & Sheila Konar Foundation, and Dr. Barbara and John Lovenheim.
EMPOWER INNOVATION BY MAKING A GIFT TO THE 2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND FOR MONROE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Gifts to the annual campaign create scholarships and fund emergency need programs that have been vital to the success of our students. Your gift to the Annual Fund for Monroe Community College will help students receive the support they need to focus on their studies and reach their educational and career goals. Because of donor support, in 2022-23, $1.37 million was awarded in scholarships to more than 700 deserving students.
Help us continue this momentum by making your gift today. Your generosity will empower innovation at Monroe Community College. Visit our giving page or call the Monroe Community College Foundation at 585.685.6020 to make your gift.
May 2024
PATHWAYS TO MCC PROGRAM ENABLES STUDENTS TO ATTAIN THEIR HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY DIPLOMAS
In 2021, Monroe Community College partnered with the ESL Charitable Foundation to introduce the Pathways to MCC program. Pathways, a gateway to college model, attracts students who did not earn a high school diploma. It allows them to take college courses and apply for their New York State high school equivalency diploma. Students in this program receive free tuition, fees, books, and supplies for the required 24 college credits as well as wrap-around support.
Students like Zevez benefit greatly from this program. Zevez experienced numerous challenges that made earning a high school diploma seem unachievable. They desired to break the cycle of not completing high school that their family faced. When learning about Pathways to MCC, Zevez knew that this was the right path, and they have found great success. Zevez will graduate with their high school equivalency diploma this month and hopes to continue on to earn an associate’s degree in business administration at MCC. Watch this video to learn more about Zevez’s story!
We are grateful for the continued support from the ESL Charitable Foundation, which helps students like Zevez earn their high school equivalency diploma so that they can have a path to finding high-demand, living wage jobs.
GOLD STAR GALA GUESTS RAISE $280,000 FOR MCC STUDENTS
The Monroe Community College Foundation's 26th Annual Gold Star Gala presented by M&T Bank was held on April 27 at The Country Club of Rochester. Unseen Galaxies: An Evening of Wonder was filled with fun, but the mission was quite serious: to raise funds in support of Monroe Community College and to provide scholarships for deserving students. Thanks to our community’s generosity, $280,000 (net) was raised in support of MCC students to fund public higher education for Greater Rochester.
MCC student speaker Jessica Horner ’24 (pictured above), a Dental Hygiene major and scholarship recipient, shone during our scholarship call that evening. Special thanks to our Honorary Chairs Dawn F. Lipson, Mark Siwiec and Duffy Palmer, as well as our Committee Chairs Nicki Hastings, Jay Popli, and Lisa and Rich Paulis. Also, a deeply heartfelt thank you to our Auction Advocates Robin ’80 and Tim ’80 Wentworth, our evening’s emcee Doug Emblidge, and our Gala committee for their dedication, creativity, and resourcefulness in making this year's gala one to remember!
REMEMBERING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. ALICE HOLLOWAY YOUNG
On April 24, our community lost a founding trustee, board chair emerita, trailblazing educator, and lifelong champion of excellence – Dr. Alice Holloway Young (pictured right).
Dr. Young's legacy at Monroe Community College is enormous through her extraordinary leadership during her 63-year service on the Board of Trustees and her generosity in support of students. She shaped the direction of the College and provided leadership that saw MCC become the premier institution it is today. Because of her lifelong work and her belief in the power of learning, the local community and the lives of over half a million students who walked through the halls and classrooms at MCC have been transformed.
A memorial service will take place on MCC’s Brighton Campus on June 1, 2024. Learn more about the service and the life and legacy of Dr. Young.
EMPOWER INNOVATION BY SUPPORTING STUDENT SUCCESS AT MCC
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many students, like Joseph Leichtner (pictured above), found their educational paths disrupted. Previously engaged in a myriad of extracurricular activities, the sudden shift brought about by the pandemic led Joseph to feel lost, and his mental health suffered. After his high school graduation in 2021, Joseph decided to enroll at Monroe Community College hoping that it would help him heal, yet he found that MCC could do so much more.
Joseph started as a part-time student, working to determine what his goals would be. He quickly felt welcome in MCC’s vibrant community and was attracted to the numerous extra-curricular activities that MCC has to offer. Joseph is now president of the Student Government Association, a community college representative for the SUNY Student Assembly, and an active member of several honors programs. Joseph credits MCC with helping him find himself again.
He is studying business administration and hopes to transfer to a four-year school where he will work towards a career in law or business. The scholarship support that Joseph has received has been instrumental in his success, allowing him to focus on his studies while reducing his financial burden.
Your generosity helps students like Joseph, pursue their goals and achieve great success. With help from the generosity of donors to the Monroe Community College Foundation, Joseph has changed the trajectory of his life.
To empower innovation at MCC and impact future student success, we invite you to make a gift to the 2023-2024 Annual Fund for Monroe Community College today!
LAST CHANCE TO NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU KNOW FOR THE MCC ALUMNI HALL OF FAME
Do you know an outstanding Monroe Community College alum? Nominate them for the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame by June 1!
Each year the Monroe Community College Foundation’s Alumni Hall of Fame Committee considers nominees for the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame and selects up to four new inductees. Created in 1992, this hall of fame recognizes those alumni who have achieved outstanding success and made a lasting impact on their community. Help us identify the next class of inductees; nominate someone today!
Need inspiration? Take a look at our MCC Alumni Hall of Fame members!
June 2024
SUKI REGONI PARAMEDIC SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED
At the direction of Rochester City Council Vice President LaShay D. Harris, the Rochester City Council announced in May 2024 that it will fund the Suki Regoni Paramedic Scholarship for Monroe Community College students pursuing a paramedic associate degree or certification. The announcement came as the 50th anniversary of National EMS Week was celebrated.
The scholarship honors those who came before and paves a path for the next generation of EMS professionals by providing financial assistance to students pursuing paramedic training. Its aim is to stimulate and support continued recruitment to the paramedic profession. The scholarship is named in honor of Paramedic Suki Regoni, Monroe County’s first Latina paramedic, who died in 1993. Suki graduated from MCC in 1992 and worked for National Ambulance in Rochester, New York. She also served as the president of SEIU 200-United, the only EMS labor union in Monroe County.
Paramedic Regoni was not only an advanced healthcare provider, but also an educator in the field of EMS and community health. Her knowledge, street smarts, and wisdom left a lasting impact on numerous EMTs and paramedics who had the privilege of working with her. Her expertise and dedication earned her the respect of her peers in the EMS community, as well as nurses, doctors, and the patients she cared for.
The Suki Regoni Paramedic Scholarship will support three awards annually, ensuring that Suki’s legacy continues to empower and support future EMS providers. To make a gift in support of the Suki Regoni Paramedic Scholarship, please visit our donate now page.
DOW JONES TO PARTNER WITH MCC
Monroe Community College students will now have more resources to bolster their financial career aspirations thanks to the generosity of Monroe Community Foundation Director and LVW Advisors Founder and CEO Lori Van Dusen. Lori, pictured right, generously gifted $12,500 to create a partnership between MCC and the Investing in Education program from Dow Jones. MCC is the first community college to be a part of the program that will allow students full access to leading financial websites Barron’s and MarketWatch.
The Investing in Education program will allow MCC to bolster what it offers to students to make them even more desirable in the workforce and lead them to successful careers by ensuring that access to quality financial education is available to everyone. The program provides students experiential learning opportunities, including live webinars featuring top financial advisors and journalists, networking events, internship opportunities, and more.
With this partnership, MCC students will have a unique opportunity to get a real-time look into the life of the career they are pursuing, setting them apart from students at other colleges. This gift helps MCC put its mission of transforming lives and communities, fostering the success of diverse students through affordable and innovative academic, career, technical, and workforce development programs into action.
SCHOLARSHIP OPEN GOLFERS RAISE $130,000 FOR MCC STUDENTS
The Monroe Community College Foundation's 40th Annual Scholarship Open presented by Toyota was held on June 24 at The Country Club of Rochester. The day was filled with fun, but the mission was quite serious: to raise funds in support of Monroe Community College and to provide scholarships for deserving students like Millibel Cotto. Thanks to our community’s generosity, $130,000 (net) was raised in support of MCC students to fund public higher education for Greater Rochester.
It was perfect golf weather! Our first-place winner for low net was Catone Insurance and Elmer W. Davis came in as the first-place low gross team.
Special thanks to our committee co-chairs Billy Farmer and Ed Schuler ’81. Also, a deeply heartfelt thank you to our Scholarship Open committee (pictured above) for their dedication and resourcefulness in making this year's golf tournament one to remember!
A huge thank you to our generous underwriters:
Platinum Sponsor
- Toyota
Gold Sponsor
- M/E Engineering, P.C.
Bronze Sponsors
- Crosby-Brownlie, Inc.
- Dolomite Group
- Sage Rutty and Company
July 2024
LEGENDARY MCC WOMEN'S SOCCER COACH CHUCK SALAMONE TO BE HONORED AT INNOVATIVE FIELD
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, longtime MCC women's soccer coach Charles "Chuck" R. Salamone will be inducted into the Walk of Fame at Innovative Field. Chuck's career at Monroe Community College began in 1967, teaching U.S. government, international relations, diplomacy, and criminal justice. He also served as chair of the History and Political Science Department and was the first head coach of MCC's women's soccer team.
Under former Athletic Director George Monagan's leadership, Chuck transformed the women's soccer program from a club team in 1979 to the nation's top junior college team. Over 10 years, his teams achieved a remarkable record of 152 wins, 22 losses, and 4 ties. They won the first NJCAA Women's Soccer Championship in 1982 and additional titles in 1985, 1986, and 1989. The 1986 team (pictured above) was undefeated with 20 straight victories. Eighteen players earned All-American honors under Chuck, who was named NJCAA Coach of the Year four times and served as president of the NJCAA Women's Soccer Coaches Association from 1985-1989. He was inducted into the MCC Athletic Hall of Fame in 1991.
Chuck's dedication to education and student-athletes led him to establish the Charles R. Salamone Women's Soccer Scholarship. He later coached at Nazareth College and taught history at Cardinal Mooney High School.
Tickets for the Walk of Fame induction ceremony, VIP reception, and Red Wings game are $37. Please contact Karen Shaw (kshaw@monroecc.edu) at the MCC Foundation to purchase tickets. Gifts to the Charles R. Salamone Women's Soccer Scholarship in honor of Chuck's Walk of Fame induction can be made by visiting our online giving page.
LAST CHANCE TO ADD YOUR NAME TO THE ANNUAL FUND HONOR ROLL OF DONORS
If you have not made your annual gift to help make a Monroe Community College education accessible to everyone, we want to be sure that you have one more opportunity to do so. By supporting the 2023-2024 Annual Fund at Monroe Community College, you have the power to create life-changing opportunities for students at MCC. Your generosity empowers innovation at MCC.
Time is running out but you still have a chance to make a difference! We can add your name to our Annual Fund Honor Roll of Donors if we receive your gift or pledge by August 20. Making your gift is simple when you visit our donate now page. Your support is greatly appreciated and will provide scholarships and grants to hundreds of students. Thank you for your generosity!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 33RD ANNUAL SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE
The Salute to Excellence is a special celebration of community leadership and philanthropy in support of Monroe Community College. We hope you are saving the date of Thursday, November 14, 2024, for the 33rd Annual Salute to Excellence when we will gather to celebrate the spirit of philanthropy and the accomplishments of leaders in our community at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center beginning at 5:30 p.m.
In addition to the annual MCC Alumni Hall of Fame inductions, we are honored to present this year's Salute to Excellence Award to Thomas Battley, executive director, Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster and The New York Photonics Industry Association, Jim M. Sydor ’71, president and owner, Sydor Optics, and Richard Nasca (posthumously), manufacturing associate, Corning Tropel Corporation and past president of the American Precision Optics Manufacturing Association, in recognition of their remarkable investments in the Optics program at MCC.
Register online for the 33rd Annual Salute to Excellence.
Opportunities for underwriting support are available. Please contact Karen Shaw, Assistant Director of Development, at kshaw@a220149.com or call 585.685.6020 for more information.
NYS CHARITABLE TAX CREDIT PROGRAM OPEN AGAIN THIS FALL
The NYS Charitable Tax Credit Program offers donors a unique way to invest in Monroe Community College students while also taking advantage of potential income tax credits. Thanks to the generosity of those who participated in this extraordinary program last year, the Monroe Community College Foundation raised more than $430,000 to support student success at MCC.
This year’s details and deadlines will be available later this summer. If you are interested in learning more, contact Mark Pastorella at 585.685.6317.
August 2024
RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATES NEW BANK OF AMERICA LOBBY AT THE FWD CENTER
On August 20, Monroe Community College and Bank of America cut the ribbon to mark the official opening of a new lobby on the fifth floor of the Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center (FWD Center) at MCC’s Downtown Campus. The renovation was funded by a $250,000 grant from Bank of America to the Monroe Community College Foundation and a matching grant from Monroe County and SUNY.
“We want to express our sincerest gratitude to Bank of America for being a partner in investing in bright futures for our community and its people,” said Dr. DeAnna R. Burt-Nanna, MCC President. “This renovated space provides a welcoming atmosphere which reflects the priority we place on providing state-of-the-art facilities for students that set them on a path to transform their lives and realize their dreams.”
The renovated space includes a lobby and an adjacent multi-purpose room. Outside organizations can utilize the multi-purpose room for hosting activities, and the lounge is a designated area for students to relax and take a break.
The FWD Center aims to bolster student recruitment efforts and address the employment needs of residents—especially those in low-income, underrepresented households—that lead to high-demand, family-sustaining careers. Its goal is to increase the number of skilled technicians for occupations involving robotics/automation, mechatronics, skilled trades, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and professional services to meet the demands of various industries.
We are extraordinarily grateful for Bank of America’s leadership and investment in MCC!
SAVE THE DATE AND REGISTER NOW FOR MCC'S 18TH ANNUAL 5K WALK/RUN FOR SCHOLARSHIPS!
Join us on Saturday, October 5, and help raise scholarship support for Monroe Community College students. Hosted by the Monroe Community College Foundation, the USATF certified 3.1 mile, family-friendly walk/run is open to the College community and general public. The 5K will be held in-person at MCC's Brighton Campus. Participants also have the option of participating virtually.
Help us reach our $20,000 goal by registering to participate or by making a donation to support MCC students. We hope you will join us and make 2024 a success by helping students take that all-important first step: enrolling at MCC and moving closer to crossing the finish line to graduation!
Register, form a team, or make a gift to the 5K today. Questions? Call 585.685.6020. Thank you for your support!
LAST CHANCE TO SUPPORT THE ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
When you support the Annual Fund for Monroe Community College, you create life-changing opportunities and empower innovation at MCC. Students like Jessica Horner ’24, a dental hygiene major who received scholarship support, can work toward their dreams, thanks to your support.
If you have not made your annual gift to help make an MCC education accessible to everyone, there is still time to add your name to our 2023-2024 Honor Roll of Donors. Make your gift or pledge by August 30, to ensure that your name is included.
Gifts to the Annual Fund create scholarships and fund enrichment programs that empower innovation and encourage lifelong learning. Please consider helping students like Jessica complete their degrees or certificate programs with your gift to the Monroe Community College Foundation. Visit our website to make a gift online or pledge your support today. Thank you for your generosity.
OPTICS VISIONARIES TO BE HONORED AT THE SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Monroe Community College Foundation will host the 33rd Annual Salute to Excellence at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center. The Salute to Excellence is a special celebration of community leadership and philanthropy in support of Monroe Community College. We will gather with Honorary Chair Dr. Millicent K. Ruffin, senior director, Community Impact and Investment, Corning Incorporated, as we present this year's Salute to Excellence Award to three optics visionaries who were instrumental in transforming MCC’s Optical Systems Technology Program:
- Tom Battley, executive director, Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster and The New York Photonics Industry Association
- Richard Nasca (posthumously), manufacturing associate, Corning Tropel Corporation and past president, American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association
- James M. Sydor ’71, chairman, Sydor Optics, Inc
At the event, we will also induct four alumni into the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame. This year’s outstanding inductees are:
- Kimberly J. Gaylord ’98, president and CEO, Builders Exchange of Rochester
- Michael P. Mandina ’75, chairman, Optimax Systems, Inc.
- Sheila M. Strong ’98, Ed.D., director, Leadership Development and Equity, United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes
- Tashanda D. Thomas ’06, PHR, SHRM-CP, senior vice president, Chief People and Culture Officer, Foodlink
Visit our Salute to Excellence webpage to make your reservation or to learn more about this event. Opportunities for underwriting support are available. Please contact Karen Shaw (kshaw@a220149.com) or 585.685.6020.
NYS CHARITABLE TAX CREDIT PROGRAM NOW OPEN
The NYS Charitable Tax Credit Program offers donors a unique way to invest in Monroe Community College students while also taking advantage of potential income tax credits. Thanks to the generosity of those who participated in this extraordinary program last year, the Monroe Community College Foundation raised more than $430,000 to support student success at MCC.
This year’s application is now open! Apply online for the NYS Charitable Tax Credit Program by September 30.
Questions? Contact Mark Pastorella (mpastorella@monroecc.edu) or 585.685.6317.
September 2024
LAST CALL FOR THE 2024 NYS CHARITABLE TAX CREDIT PROGRAM
The New York State Charitable Tax Credit Program offers donors a unique way to invest in Monroe Community College students while also taking advantage of potential income tax credits. Thanks to the generosity of those who participated in this extraordinary program last year, the Monroe Community College Foundation raised more than $430,000 to support student success at MCC.
This year’s application is now open! Apply online for the NYS Charitable Tax Credit Program by September 30. Questions? Contact Mark Pastorella (mpastorella@monroecc.edu) or 585.685.6317.
18TH ANNUAL 5K WALK/RUN FOR SCHOLARSHIPS ON OCTOBER 5
Walk or run in our annual 5K to help raise scholarship dollars and support for MCC students. Registered students may enter to win $5,000 in scholarships! Join alumni, donors, faculty, students, retirees and friends as we celebrate MCC's impact on Greater Rochester and highlight how MCC Foundation scholarships are vital to our community. With your support, MCC students are able to earn degrees and certificates that move them, and our community, forward.
- Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m. start
- Scholarship drawing following the 5K at the tailgate party
Walk-in registrations are accepted the morning of the 5K. The walk-in registration fee is $35. Donations are always welcome!
Help us reach our $20,000 goal. Your registration includes a commemorative T-shirt, lunch and activities for all. Awards and medals for first-place finishers.
We will also be having a sweepstakes with items such as Knighthawks and Amerks tickets as well as gift cards to various places! Tickets can be purchased on the day of the event.
Register, form a team, or make a gift to the 5K today. Questions? Call 585.685.6020. Thank you for your support!
MEET THE MCC ALUMNI HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2024
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Monroe Community College Foundation will host the 33rd Annual Salute to Excellence at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center. At the event we will present the Salute to Excellence Award to three leaders in the optics industry who were instrumental in transforming MCC's Optical Systems Technology Program:
Tom Battley
Executive Director, Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster
and The New York Photonics Industry Association
Richard A. Nasca (posthumously)
Manufacturing Associate, Corning Tropel Corporation
and Past President, American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association
James M. Sydor '71
Chairman, Sydor Optics, Inc.
In addition, we are honored to induct four outstanding alumni into the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame. The members of the Class of 2024 are:
Kimberly J. Gaylord '98
President and CEO, Builders Exchange of Rochester
Michael P. Mandina '75
Chairman, Optimax Systems, Inc.
Sheila M. Strong '98, Ed.D.
Director, Leadership Development and Equity, United Way of Greater
Rochester and the Finger Lakes
Tashanda D. Thomas '06, PHR, SHRM-CPS
Senior Vice President, Chief People and Culture Officer, Foodlink
This month we are proud to feature MCC alumni Tashanda Thomas and Mike Mandina (pictured above). Both are dynamic and motivational leaders who have dedicated their careers and personal commitments to making a lasting impact on the local community.
With a career spanning several years in human resources, Tashanda Thomas has left an indelible mark in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors. Just recently taking a position at Foodlink and in her prior work, including WXXI Public Media, Tashanda has been instrumental in fostering relationships with staff, aligning with business strategy, resolving communication issues, and motivating individuals for peak performance. Her unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is not just a professional stance, but a personal mission that inspires and motivates all those around her.
Tashanda's desire to impact the lives of Rochester's citizens is evident in her volunteer work and service. She is the chair of the Willow Domestic Violence Center Board, an Urban League of Rochester board member and a founding member of 100 Women Who Care, Roc to name just a few. Tashanda has received numerous awards and recognition for her professional work and her community outreach including 2022 Rochester Business Journal Women of Excellence honoree, 2022 ATHENA Young Professional Award finalist and a 2018 Rochester Business Journal "Forty under 40” honoree.
Tashanda is a graduate of the United Way African American Leadership Development Program, earned an associate’s degree from Monroe Community College and a bachelor's degree from St. John Fisher University.
Mike Mandina earned an associate’s degree in Optical Systems Technology from Monroe Community College and would go on to found Optimax Systems, Inc., an optical components manufacturer, in 1991 in the basement of a barn. In his past role as president and now chairman, Mike grew the company employing 450 teammates; more than 300 of which are highly skilled technicians, engineers and scientists. A master optician himself, Mike has received numerous honors and awards over the years for his leadership and industry success.
Mike has been an active member in many industry associations and organizations and is currently serving on the board of Vertus Charter School, which educates 9th through 12th grade boys in Rochester. Mike remains connected to MCC by serving on the College’s Optics Advisory Board and is committed to addressing the current skills gap and aligning the educational system with industry needs to produce a skilled workforce to strengthen our region by helping to insure a vibrant high tech manufacturing community.
After graduating from MCC, Mike earned a bachelor’s degree in applied physics from Empire State College, as well as an Executive MBA from the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Make your reservation for the Salute to Excellence today. Opportunities for underwriting support are available. Questions? Please contact Karen Shaw (kshaw@monroecc.edu) or 585.685.6020.
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Thank you for your continued support!
October 2024
MCC alum inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame
Rochester’s rock legend and Monroe Community College alum Lou Gramm ’71 was among the elite musicians honored on October 19 at the 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Lou, a former member and lead singer of Foreigner, along with the attending original members of the band delivered speeches and performed a medley of songs after accepting the honor.
Lou grew up in the Rochester suburb of Gates. He attended Gates-Chili High School graduating in 1968 and majored in education and art at MCC. Lou was the front man for the band Black Sheep before joining Foreigner in 1976. Foreigner’s first eight singles charted in the Billboard Top 20. Their nearly 50-year legacy, commercial success, musicality and song writing prowess has left a lasting legacy.
Inducted into the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame in 1992, Lou returned to MCC to launch his autobiography, Juke Box Hero – My Five Decades in Rock ‘n’ Roll in May 2013. Lou Gramm is considered among the greatest and most successful rock vocalists of all-time.
MAKE YOUR RESERVATION FOR THE SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Monroe Community College Foundation will host the 33rd Annual Salute to Excellence at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center. At the event we will present the Salute to Excellence Award to three leaders in the optics industry who were instrumental in transforming MCC's Optical Systems Technology Program:
Tom Battley
Executive Director, Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster
and The New York Photonics Industry Association
Richard A. Nasca (posthumously)
Manufacturing Associate, Corning Tropel Corporation
and Past President, American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association
James M. Sydor '71
Chairman, Sydor Optics, Inc.
In addition, we are honored to induct four outstanding alumni into the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame. The members of the Class of 2024 are:
Kimberly J. Gaylord '98
President and CEO, Builders Exchange of Rochester
Michael P. Mandina '75
Chairman, Optimax Systems, Inc.
Sheila M. Strong '98, Ed.D.
Director, Leadership Development and Equity, United Way of Greater
Rochester and the Finger Lakes
Tashanda D. Thomas '06, PHR, SHRM-CPS
Senior Vice President, Chief People and Culture Officer, Foodlink
Kim Gaylord (pictured left) is committed to improving the Rochester and regional construction industry. She is the first female president of the Builders Exchange of Rochester, a 135-year-old, not-for-profit association that has over 600 members representing all sectors of the construction industry.
Upon graduation from MCC with an associate’s degree in business administration, Kim earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and management from SUNY Brockport. She is active in many community organizations throughout the Rochester area serving on the boards of Greater Rochester Enterprise, Rochester Rotary Charitable Trusts, MCC Foundation and the Greater Rochester Habitat for Humanity. She is involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Kim was recognized as a Rochester Business Journal Woman of Excellence in 2024 and was the recipient of the Rochester Rotary Service Award in 2023.
Dr. Sheila M. Strong (pictured right) is a scholar, an inclusive leader and an advocate for social justice. She has over twenty years of executive-level experience in nonprofit and higher education. In her current position, she directs the United Way’s six longstanding leadership development programs and she launched the United Way’s first mentoring and coaching program.
Prior to joining the United Way, Sheila held positions as the assistant to the college president at SUNY Brockport and the executive assistant to the president of Monroe Community College. A lifelong learner; following her graduation from MCC, Sheila earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from SUNY Brockport. She completed her Doctor of Education in Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University. Sheila has been recognized as a 2023 Colors of Success DEI Leadership Award finalist. She serves as a trustee of the Susan B. Anthony House and Museum, Inc., BoardStrong, Inc., the Center for Governmental Research and the Friends & Foundation of the Rochester Public Library.
Make your reservation for the Salute to Excellence today. Opportunities for underwriting support are available. Questions? Please contact Karen Shaw (kshaw@monroecc.edu) or 585.685.6020.
5K PARTICIPANTS RAISE OVER $22,000 FOR MCC STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS
MCC’s 18th Annual 5K Walk/Run for Scholarships was a huge success! Thank you to all of our participants and our donors for helping to raise over $22,000 on Homecoming Day! We had almost 350 participants and presented $5,000 in scholarships to MCC students.
Homecoming Day was extra special this year not only with the 5K, tailgate lunch party and awards ceremony, and art gallery reception, but also with activities organized for the Fall Fest, including large scale inflatables, henna tattoo artists, face painting, tarot card reading, custom street sign creations and more.
While the 5K is over, our fundraising is not! We are currently accepting donations in support of the event, a favorite participant or team. Give to the 5K today.
Make sure to save the date for our 19th Annual 5K Walk/Run for Scholarships that will take place September 27, 2025!
ROC WITH US
Join us and make a difference. On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Greater Rochester Community will come together to ROC the Day and we need YOU to join us!
Many thanks to the ESL Charitable Foundation for offering a $5,000 match for all gifts made during this 24-hour giving initiative. We hope you’ll rise to the challenge and help students at MCC realize their full potential! To make your gift, visit the ROC the Day website on December 3rd!
Honor Someone Special
With the holiday season approaching, now is the time to think about giving thanks.
Consider making a gift to honor someone in your life or commemorate a special occasion. Tribute gifts are a thoughtful way to show your appreciation and demonstrate how much that special person means to you. Share your belief in public higher education by giving a gift in their honor.
When you make an honorary gift through the Monroe Community College Foundation, your honoree receives a special card acknowledging your donation. Make your honorary gift today.