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��Ӱֱ�� State is celebrating the largest gift in its history, thanks to the generosity of distinguished alumnus and philanthropist Tom Golisano, ’62, who has pledged $5 million to his alma mater.

"This gift is a game changer that will help so many future Pioneers.” — President Steve Mauro

Golisano’s transformative gift is part of a sweeping $360 million commitment to 82 nonprofit organizations across Upstate New York and Florida. His philanthropic vision spans healthcare, education, disability services, animal welfare, and other causes close to his heart. Each award is unrestricted, empowering organizations to invest where the need is greatest. President Dr. Steven Mauro said, “We are honored and beyond grateful that he included his alma mater in this historic commitment to our region.”

Founder of Paychex Inc. and a longtime supporter of countless charitable causes, Golisano has never forgotten where his journey began. In 2009, ��Ӱֱ�� State recognized his accomplishments with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.

“One of my favorite sayings is, ‘the only wealth you keep is that which you give away.’ The success of Paychex and the hard work of its employees make these donations possible. I am beyond grateful to give back and excited to see how this will strengthen ��Ӱֱ�� State and the communities it serves.” – Tom Golisanao, ‘62

A business administration graduate, Golisano credits his accounting professor, Thomas Dunn, with shaping his path toward entrepreneurship. “Professor Dunn was a master at educating us on how to understand financial statements,” he recalled during a 2021 campus visit, when he met with business students and spoke about his career and his book Built Not Born.