University Employees Encouraged to Support the Annual United Way Campaign

The Syracuse University United Way Employee Giving 2023 pledge campaign officially kicks off on Oct. 14.

During this year’s campaign—which runs through Dec. 16.—University employees are encouraged to consider making a voluntary pledge through MySlice. Options are available for either a one-time donation or a regular donation through payroll deduction each pay period.

For those who prefer a paper pledge card, contact campaign coordinator Jake Losowski at jjlosows@syr.edu or 315.443.4137.

Now celebrating its 100th anniversary, the United Way of Central New York funds 70 different human service programs at 28 local agencies, with every dollar raised remaining in Central New York to help the United Way address various community needs.

This year, the co-chairs of the University’s employee giving campaign are Marcelle Haddix, associate provost for strategic initiatives, and two previous co-chairs: Ryan Williams, vice president of enrollment services, and Michael Frasciello, dean of the College of Professional Studies.

The University’s employee campaign giving initiative helps support the vast impact United Way has in the Central New York community while making their work possible.

“Syracuse University is crucial to the vitality of the broad Syracuse community. When we partner with the United Way of Central New York, we ensure that needed services and supports are made available to community members who need them. I have personally seen how United Way agencies change lives and knowing that Syracuse University faculty, students and staff contributed made it even more impactful,” says Williams.

Entering his second year as a campaign co-chair. Frasciello understands the importance every contribution—big or small—can have on the campaign.

“Every dollar we provide to the United Way makes our community more resilient, stronger and healthier. This university’s power of giving comes from our collective commitment to improving and transforming lives in intentional, purposeful and sustainable ways,” says Frasciello.

Besides the co-chairs, the annual campaign is led by a collection of team leaders from colleges and departments across campus who collaborate to promote the campaign and encourage their colleagues to participate.

Many departments organize their own activities to raise additional funds so they can donate the proceeds from these activities to the campaign. Past fundraising activities have included bake sales, raffles and gift baskets. In the past, Syracuse University Libraries held a bake sale that was popular with staff and students, while Facilities Services entered stadium memorabilia into a silent auction with all proceeds benefiting the United Way.  Employees are encouraged to get involved, even if they have not participated in the campaign in the past.

“Whether you are new to Syracuse University or if you have been here for many years and you are looking for a way to stay involved and to have an impact on the needs here in our local community, supporting the United Way is a central way to do that,” says Haddix, who found a way to get more involved by serving as a campaign co-chair for the first time.

Employee participation in the campaign is voluntary and participating employees can select either an automatic payroll deduction or a one-time donation in any amount. University retirees are also invited to participate as many enjoy the longstanding tradition and generous spirit of this annual event.