Siena’s Annual Fund and Alumni Engagement teams have received national recognition for their dedicated work.
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) named its annual Circle of Excellence Awards in June. The awards recognize exceptional achievement in advancement services, alumni relations, communications, fundraising, and marketing. These are the creative, inspiring projects that impact institutions and their communities—and transform lives around the globe.
“Our team’s dedication, innovation, and tireless efforts not only strengthen Siena’s future but also deepen the impact we make every day for alumni, students and the entire community,” said Bill McGoldrick ’68, interim vice president for development and alumni engagement. “This recognition is a testament to their excellence, and I thank them for all that they do.”
Alumni Engagement received bronze-level recognition for November’s Siena Teddy Bear Checkup Clinic, which welcomed alumni back to campus with their young children to help kids learn firsthand about health and dental care. More than 250 kids brought in their stuffed animals for “exams” by Siena health studies students.
“As Siena positions itself as an area leader in health care education, events like the teddy bear clinic are a great way to give our health studies students the opportunity to test their communication skills with patients,” according to Cherisse Young ‘96, director of alumni engagement.
The Annual Fund also received bronze recognition for their Giving Tuesday: Saints Light the Way Campaign, which united alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends in the spirit of generosity. Rooted in a cherished Siena tradition, the campaign linked each gift made on December 3 to the lighting of a candle at the Grotto, symbolizing prayers, intentions, and collective impact.
“The goal was to light all the Grotto candles by day’s end, illustrating how Saints light the way to a brighter future,” said Christina Parrottino '23, assistant director of alumni engagement.