Area of Greatest Need

208
Donors
83% of 250 Donor goal
$223,141
Donated
This campaign ended on March 24, 2025, but you can still make a gift to St. John Fisher University by clicking here!

Gifts to Area of Greatest Need contribute to...

I HEART FISHER GIVING DAY 2025
1,013 Donors - $720,376 Donated
About

Area of Greatest Need

The Fisher Fund for Area of Greatest Need is the foundation for bold opportunities and life-changing experiences at St. John Fisher University. This flexible fund allows the university to invest in the areas that matter most—where innovation meets immediate need, and where student success is shaped every day.

Your gift empowers Fisher to respond quickly to unexpected challenges, enhance essential student programs, and invest in initiatives that set Fisher apart—whether upgrading classrooms with cutting-edge technology, expanding health and wellness services, or creating hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for life after graduation.

Every dollar given strengthens Fisher’s ability to provide students with the exceptional education, support, and experiences they deserve.

Together, we’re ensuring Fisher remains a place where all students can thrive—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.


Updates
Success for Kickoff 2:1 Match

The 2:1 giving match from Elizabeth ’11 and John Leonard has been met! Thank you to the Leonards for offering this generous match and the donors who were inspired to leverage their gifts for more impact.

445 days ago by Maherly Schaeffer
The Heerkens Faculty & Staff Match Met

Fisher employees answered the call with 100 donors to unlock a $2,500 gift from former employee Bob Heerkens and his wife, Tarri. 

Every day, faculty and staff give their all for Fisher and its students with the goal of providing a transformational experience. Thank you to Fisher employees and Bob and Tarri Heerkens for your generosity.

445 days ago by Maherly Schaeffer
Spire Society Membership Challenge

The Spire Society is the backbone of the Fisher Fund. We are challenging 20 new members to joined the esteemed ranks of the Spire Society before the end of I Heart Fisher Giving Day. These Fisher Fund leaders invest in and enhance the Fisher experience, making it available to all who wish to learn and grow here.

Thank you to the following individuals who have joined or renewed their Spire Society membership in honor of I Heart Fisher Giving Day:

Richard '73 & Janice Agin

David '06 and Paula Bocciolatt

James A. ’70 and Maureen Bowers

Robert W. Burgdorf, Esq. ’84 and Rosellen J. Burgdorf ’84

Daniel ‘69 and Ann Colby

Ed Donnelly ’83 and Tom Schnorr 

Bernie Fischette '79

Tricia Gatlin and Kim Vroman

Rev. Joseph A. Hart ’68

Mark ’86 and Leslie Johnson

Jill R. Knittel ’94, ’03 (MBA)

Joellen Maples

Kenneth McAlpin ’77, ’87 (MBA) and MaryAnn McAlpin

E. Robert ’68 and Susan W. Moline

Marcie ’94 and John Nicastro

Nixon Peabody LLP

Linda Paulmeno Sewell '81

Michael J. ’79 and Ann Plunkett

Leon T. Sawyko, Esq. ’66 and Anne O. Sawyko

Skip ’72 and Patty Streber

Dr. Daniel D. Tessoni ’69 and Martha L. Tessoni

James ’83 and Mary Jo ’89 Valenti

Thomas R. Wahl '78

Donna '76 & Christopher Young 

445 days ago by Amanda Glann

Donor Affiliations
Gradhat icon67%Alumni
Suitcase icon17%Faculty/Staff
Friends icon5%Friends
Parent icon3%Parents
Most Recent Donors
Mark Harris & Alexandra Salas
Mark Harris & Alexandra Salas
Oliver Griffin
Oliver Griffin
Michael Mazzochetti
Michael Mazzochetti
Patricia Gallagher
Patricia Gallagher
Christine Grout
Christine Grout
Thomas Green
Thomas Green
Kathleen Pollard
Kathleen Pollard
Stacy Hoskins
Stacy Hoskins
John Huber CSB
John Huber CSB
James D Holland
James D Holland

Advocates

Daniel J. Boyce, Esq. ’79 and Shelley L. Boyce, Michael E. ’82 and Christine Haefner, and Mike ’80 and Karen Moran

Offered a $85,000 match

The John and Elizabeth ’11 Leonard Family Foundation

Generated 1 gift, totaling $100
Offered a $50,000 match

Martin L. Keating ’75 and Jake Latchman

Gave $15,000 during a Challenge!

Ryan A. ’01, ’04 (MBA) and Carly M. Lancer.

Gave $10,000 during a Challenge!

Britt and Lisa Vitalone ’91

Offered a $10,000 match

Anonymous

Gave $10,000 during a Challenge!

Community Advocates

Generated 3990 clicks and 83 gifts, totaling $7,643

Mark Cleary ’81, John Mealey, and City Blue Imaging,

Offered a $5,000 match

Christine Birnie and George D. Jegadesh ’14 (MBA)

Offered a $3,000 match

Robert and Tarri Heerkens

Gave $2,500 during a Challenge!

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