Bobkiewicz named SU’s national annual giving chair

Bobkiewicz named SU’s national annual giving chairSeptember 20, 2006Kelly Homan Rodoskikahoman@syr.edu

Wally Bobkiewicz G’89, president-elect of Syracuse University’s National Alumni Association Board and city manager of Santa Paula, Calif., has been named the first national annual giving chair in the University’s recent history.

“As a dedicated and loyal alumnus who gives generously of his time, energy and resources to support his alma mater, there is no one better to inspire other alumni to do the same,” says Andrea Latchem, SU’s assistant vice president for alumni relations.

As the annual giving chair, Bobkiewicz will serve as the University’s leading voice to alumni on the significance and satisfaction of being engaged with the University and of participating with others in giving back to SU. He will serve as an enthusiastic leader in involving more alumni in University activities and in helping alumni understand that their financial support of the University “at whatever level is significant to them” is essential for SU to continue providing the growth, challenges and memorable times that alumni experienced as students.

“We feel very fortunate that Wally has accepted this assignment,” says Tammy Schlafer, SU’s executive director of annual giving. “He has amply demonstrated his commitment to SU and will be a great spokesperson for us.”

Bobkiewicz says his new role offers him a chance to give back to the University that means so much to him. “Syracuse did so much for me in helping to educate and shape who I am today,” he says. “The University needs the support of its alumni to keep the institution strong. It is up to all of us to step forward to ensure that the experiences we enjoyed here can continue for future generations of students.”

Bobkiewicz received a master’s degree in public administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs in 1989. Since that time, he has served as a mentor and career advisor for Maxwell students who are interested in local government service.

He has been a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2001 and served as chair of the board’s Finance and Resources Committee from 2002-04. He chaired the committee that provided oversight and direction for the planning, fundraising and development of the University’s Orange Grove.

Bobkiewicz has been a loyal donor to the Fund for Syracuse since 1991, electing to support the Maxwell School, Orange Athletics and Alumni Relations. He has been a member of the University’s Society of Fellows since 2002.