Enhancing the student experience is at the forefront of the Boost the ’Cuse initiative, Syracuse University’s first-ever 24-hour giving day.
Beginning at midnight and running all day on Tuesday, Oct. 17, the generosity of Syracuse University donors will be on display as the SU community ensures future generations of students can enjoy all the benefits of a Syracuse education.
Taylor Ford
The generosity of Syracuse donors enhances the educational experience for students like Taylor Ford ’15, now a graduate student in the School of Education. Ford majored in public health at Syracuse before embarking on her master’s degree.
A resident of New York City, Ford received a full athletic scholarship to play for the women’s basketball team, as well as other forms of financial aid. Without her scholarship, and without financial aid, Ford couldn’t have pursued her career goals: helping young individuals reach their potential.
How has the generosity of Syracuse University donors made a difference in your life?
“Financial aid and scholarship support from Syracuse University changed my life for the better. Without these gifts, I’m not sure where I would be. I was able to attend a prestigious university, and not only did I receive my bachelor’s degree, I’m now on track to earn my master’s degree as well. Not a day goes by where I do not appreciate everything that has been done for me.”
What did it mean for you and your family to receive a scholarship to attend Syracuse?
“Receiving financial aid meant everything. I came from a lower-income family, and my sister and brother were already in college when I entered. It was hard on my mother financially, so receiving aid was a blessing for my family and me.”
What part of your SU experience has impacted you the most?
“I have been blessed with the chance to play Division I basketball. I’ve been to the NCAA tournament every year on campus, and was part of the senior class that won seven NCAA tournament games, spent 39 weeks in the Associated Press top 25 poll, and recorded 99 victories. My senior season, we went to the Final Four and played in the national championship game, a first in the history of SU women’s basketball.”
Why should a prospective donor support Syracuse University?
“The students and professors take a lot of pride in what they do and what Syracuse means to them. Syracuse has changed many lives for the better. I’ve seen students create better lives for themselves. Some were the first ones to graduate in their family, others are carrying on a legacy. Supporting a cause here can be life changing for the person receiving help, and for the donors. By giving to Syracuse University, you’re providing support that will not only maintain the University’s reputation, but will keep SU flourishing. Your gift helps students succeed.”
You can make a difference for students! The goal of Boost the ’Cuse is to inspire at least 1,870 alumni, parents, faculty, staff, friends and students to make a gift to SU. There are three ways to give:
Don’t Miss a Minute!
All members of the Syracuse University community are invited to track progress throughout the day at mission.syr.edu. Additionally, a nine-foot rocket will be on the Quad during the day; stop by as we send Syracuse to new heights!
