East Stroudsburg, PA – East Stroudsburg University Foundation presented its first-ever Conference on Philanthropy last week, attracting many from the ESU community who came to learn about fundraising in higher education in today’s economic climate. The event was kicked off by Betty Russo, VP of Development at ESU Foundation, followed by remarks from ESU Foundation President and CEO Frank Falso. Special guests included Bruce Dreon, principal at Bentz Whaley Flessner, a nationally known fundraising firm; and Karen Fitzgerald of Creative Fundraising Solutions, a professional annual fund consulting firm. Special surprise guest, Burgy, the ESU mascot, made a cameo appearance to the delight of attendees and participants alike.
The purpose of the half-day workshop – directed at vice presidents, deans, department heads, coaches, budget managers, and others – was to provide fundraising stakeholders a better understanding of how fundraising works and their role in the process. “Over the next two years, there will be a $4 million reduction in federal stimulus funds devoted to higher education,” says Frank Falso, president and CEO of the ESU Foundation. “We therefore need to garner new and increased financial support through private contributions. To do this we need to be knowledgeable of the new parameters as we develop our specific fundraising programs.”
The mission of the ESU Foundation is to foster and promote the growth, progress and general welfare of East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, and to solicit, receive and administer, and make gifts and donations for such purposes.
Photo Caption: ESU mascot Burgy was on hand to lend his support at the recent Conference on Philanthropy. At right is ESU Foundation President and CEO Frank Falso.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Debbie Burke, Communications Manager, at (570) 422-3332.
