#studentscholars

[kateconwayturner]

Paying It Forward through the Peterson Society

Last Thursday, I had the opportunity to have lunch with more than 100 members of the Buffalo State College Peterson Society. This planned giving society, named for Harold and Lucille Peterson, ’39, in recognition of their commitment to the college, encourages others to pay it forward by leaving a lasting legacy gift to Buffalo State.

This event is always a highlight of the fall semester. In the room are alumni, current and emeritus faculty and staff members, and dear friends of the college. All are interested in the latest happenings on campus and eager to share their enthusiasm for a positive future for Buffalo State.

The luncheon gets under way

The luncheon features several highlights. One is hearing Jim Brandys, ’71, ’73, longtime chair of the Buffalo State Foundation development committee, share stories of the new members who are being inducted. Each has an amazing story with direct or indirect ties to Buffalo State.

Jim Brandys, ’71, ’73, gives remarks at Peterson Luncheon

A second highlight is hearing from a student who has received a scholarship. This year senior Matthew Burch, who is dual majoring in wood and furniture design and industrial technology, shared what the scholarship meant to him and how he plans to work on projects that have a positive impact on the community, including designing and making furniture for disabled veterans. And finally, I love getting reacquainted with members of the Peterson Society. They are generous individuals who believe in the Buffalo State work of transforming lives through our urban-engaged mission.

Senior Matthew Burch, scholarship recipient

Senior Matthew Burch (right) talking with a Peterson Society member

It was another wonderful event, and it felt just like a reunion of our Buffalo State extended family—because that’s exactly what it was.

[fatherswrites]

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Clean up, clean up. More like equity challenge. Some used chopsticks others used spoons but everyone had to get as many pompoms as they could in the same amount of time. Quickly they felt the frustration of not starting off on level playing fields. #learningisteaching #equity #studentscholars #privilege