Changing of the Guards in the Annual Fund Leadership

During the Leadership Benefactors’ Celebration Dinner, outgoing National Annual Fund Co-Chairs, alumni Rich ‘88 and Lori ’95 Pizzarro, welcomed the incoming chairs, Judy Fogelsonger ‘82M and Forbes Borthwick.  A highlight of the Pizzarro’s term as co-chairs was a $100,000 challenge gift which successfully raised over $375,000 for the Annual Fund. “We are grateful to everyone who participated,” said Rich, “and we wish Forbes and Judy great success in the next two years.”  Rich will continue as a member of the SU Foundation Board and Lori as a volunteer with the General Alumni Board.

In the tradition of jump starting their fundraising efforts, the Pizzarro’s gave Judy and Forbes the $2.00 and $100 bills which previous Co-Chairs, Ron and Kate Conard, had given them.  To ‘up the ante’, they also gave another $100 bill to help launch their efforts.  “We appreciate the gesture,” said Judy. “We have big shoes to fill so every dollar helps!”

Judy and Forbes are long time volunteers with the SU Foundation.  Judy also serves on the College of Business Advisory Board. In 2014, she established the Judy K. Fogelsonger Scholarship.  “We are looking forward to learning more about Annual Fund initiatives,” said Judy, “and working with the Foundation staff and volunteers to accomplish the $2.7MM goal.”

Alumni Couple Honored for Challenge Gift

Rich Pizzarro ’88 and Lori Baker Pizzarro ’95 love their alma mater and have supported it with their time, talent, and treasure since they graduated.  In 1995, Rich received the Outstanding Young Alumnus award and since 2000 has been a valued member of the SU Foundation Board of Directors.  Lori has served on the General Alumni Board since 2012.  Asked if they would be the SU Foundation’s Annual Fund National Co-Chairs for 2014-2015 and 2015-2016, the Pizzarro’s did not hesitate.  But nothing is business as usual with Rich and Lori.  In December 2015, they decided to infuse the Annual Fund with some new energy and excitement by declaring a $100,000 challenge gift.  This was launched with a video and campus-wide “I accept the challenge” initiative.  The challenge was an incredible success.  At its completion on June 30, 2016, the challenge had more than tripled the original $100,000 and attracted 1,306 new donors to the Annual Fund. That is truly alumni love in action benefitting students in all ways the Annual Fund touches their lives on a daily basis.  The Pizzarro’s were presented with a plaque at the recent Presidents’ Recognition Reception recognizing their significant contribution to the Annual Fund.