GCC Foundation

At a gala night celebrating the holiday season -- with the movie theme "White Christmas -- and helping raise funds to benefit students at Genesee Community College through scholarships, Jeremy and Sandra Liles were honored as co-chairs of the 31st Encore event in the Stuart Steiner Forum.

Jeremy Liles is owner of Oliver's Candies in Batavia and Sweet Life Country Store in Elba.

The brief program was followed by a performance of the Genesee Symphony Orchestra.

Previously: Encore gala returns for 31st season to spread 'White Christmas' cheer

The Genesee Community College Foundation hosted its 31st season of Encore on Friday in the Stuart Steiner Forum.

The gala, sponsored by Tompkins Financial, helps the foundation raise money to support student scholarships.

This year's co-chairs were Jeremy and Sandra Liles. The theme of the event took its inspiration from the 1954 classic holiday film, "White Christmas." 

Genesee Symphony Orchestra performed a selection of holiday favorites.

Jeremy Liles is a native of Genesee County, the owner of Oliver's Candies and Sweet Life Group, its parent organization, and has managed Oliver's Candies for over 20 years. Jeremy is actively involved in his local community and currently serves on the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and has served on the Batavia Town Planning Board. Sandra is a New Hampshire native who moved to Genesee County in 2005. 

Sandra opened Sweet Life Country Store in Elba and has managed the operation for the past five years. She says she enjoys working with many different local product vendors and artisans to make their wares available to the public at this store, as well as partnering with other local businesses to benefit the community. Jeremy and Sandra reside in Batavia with Tahlia, the youngest of their three children.

These photos capture the cocktail hour and dinner service. The Batavian anticipates further coverage on Monday.

It was "A Night in Casablanca" for attendees of the GCC Foundation's annual gala fundraiser, Encore 2022.

Encore co-chairs Robert and Zje Savage prepared a classic throwback to Rick’s Café Americain in World War II era French Morocco featuring gourmet food and dessert stations and live music by the Hanna PK Trio.

Proceeds from Encore support student scholarships at Genesee Community College. 

Top photo: Dr.Ginny Taylor, Chair of the GCC Foundation and Justin Johnston, executive VP of the GCC Foundation, present a plaque of appreciation to
Bob and Zje Savage, co-chairs of this year's event.

Photos Courtesy Genesee Community College.

Bob and Zje Savage, Co-Chairs, Encore "A Night in Casablanca"

The music headliner for the evening was Hanna PK and the Blue Hearts.

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation will be celebrating its 30th season of Encore a little earlier this year on Saturday, Nov., 19. This year's event, held in the William W. Stuart Forum, will feature entertainment by Hanna PK and The Blue Hearts.

The annual Encore Gala raises funds for student scholarships giving the local community the opportunity to support students through the College Foundation, while enjoying a very special evening that kicks off the holiday season. This year, co-chairs Robert and Zje Savage are working with GCC's Foundation to plan something truly exciting for the 2022 Encore Gala under the theme "A Night in Casablanca." "We are looking forward to presenting this year's Encore and have many surprises planned for the evening," said Robert Savage.

Bob Savage is a native of Livingston County, where he has operated The WYSL Stations for the last 35 of his 55 years in media. He returned to build the news-and-talk outlet after a career spanning on-air and management duties at stations in New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Minneapolis and Knoxville. Western New York native Zje Savage is active in the local arts community in metal sculpture and photography. Zje has been a clothing buyer for the past 20 years. Bob and Zje reside in Brighton with their son, Jaz.

"Both Zje and I recognize the importance of education and supporting the Foundation Scholarship program at Genesee Community College. We are honored to be co-chairs of Encore 2022." This year's event theme "A Night in Casablanca" will embrace the essence of this Academy Award-winning feature film.

Proceeds from Encore support scholarships for students attending Genesee Community College. Sponsorship opportunities are critically important to the event, and are available at the following levels:

• "We'll Always Have Paris" Hors D'oeuvres Station Sponsor - $3,000
• "Last Plane to Lisbon" Dessert Station Sponsor - $3,000
• "Sam's Jazz Trio" Entertainment Sponsor - $2,000
• "Inspector Renault's High Roller" Thank You Gift Sponsor - $2,000
• "Here's Looking at you Kid" Photo Booth Sponsor - $2,000
• "The French Resistance" Lighting Sponsor - $2,000

To become a 2022 Encore sponsor or event information, please visit https://gccfoundationinc.org/encore/ or contact the Foundation Office directly at (585) 345-6809 foundation@genesee.edu.

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation invites nominations for its Alumni Hall of Fame, which recognizes those alumni who have achieved outstanding success and made a lasting impact on their community. The GCC Foundation intends to induct the next class of nominees during the fall of 2022 semester. "We encourage those who know outstanding graduates to nominate them now," Lori Aratari '89 Alumni Hall of Fame chair said. "We know there are a lot of deserving graduates out there, and we are eager to honor more of GCC's best and brightest." Nomination forms can be downloaded from GCC's Foundation website https://gccfoundationinc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Alumni-Hall-of-Fame-application.pdf and emailed to Foundation@genesee.edu .

GCC introduced the Alumni Hall of Fame in 2007. In over 14 years, the College has recognized 43 outstanding graduates in a variety of fields, from law enforcement to economic development.

"The success of these graduates serves as an inspiration to all of us here at the College and the community at large," Aratari said.

The criteria for nominating an individual to the Alumni Hall of Fame are based on the individual's contributions to his or her profession, distinguished service to the community and/or service to Genesee Community College. Nominees must be well-established in their professional lives, having completed their GCC degree at least ten years prior to nomination.

Nominations may be submitted by the nominee or by friends, family or other colleagues who are familiar with the nominee. New inductees will be honored at a reception, and their photo and a short biography will be displayed in the Alumni Hall of Fame, located on the second floor of the Conable Technology Building.

For more information contact The GCC Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or via email: Foundation@genesee.edu .

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation and Cougar Classic Scholarship Honorary Chairperson, Mickey J. Hyde '87, have confirmed the 7th Annual Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble will take place on Monday, July 18, 2022, at the Stafford Country Club, 8873 Morganville Road (Rte. 237) in Stafford.

Hyde, a resident of LeRoy, earned an associate degree in Business and Marketing from GCC in 1987 when he was also named the College's Scholar-Athlete of the Year for his participation in baseball and bowling. As a baseball player, he was named to All-District, All-Region, and All-Conference teams. After graduation, he played five seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies organization, culminating in a call-up to Triple-A Scranton Wilkes-Barre in 1993. During his career, he was named the Phillies Minor League Player of the Month in April 1991 and that year was named the Phillies "Outstanding Player of Spring Training." Hyde earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. In 2003, he joined Tompkins Bank of Castile and currently is vice president and branch manager of the Bank's LeRoy branch. He has served on the boards of Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, Leadership Genesee's Funding Committee, Wyoming County Community Action, and GCC's Walkathon. He is a member of LeRoy-Pavilion-Stafford Kiwanis, the Rochester Press-Radio Club, and the Sons of the American Legion.

"I am sincerely grateful to Mickey for serving as chair for the seventh annual Cougar Classic," remarked Executive Director of the GCC Foundation, Justin Johnston. "He has supported our Cougar Pride Athletic Campaign, previous Cougar Classic tournaments and is a proud 2010 GCC Athletic Hall of Fame inductee. Mickey's leadership is vital to so many areas of GCC, and I look forward to working with him on this important initiative to raise scholarship funds for our GCC students."

The Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble allows up to 36 foursomes for the 18-hole event at the esteemed Stafford Country Club. Sign-in starts at 11:00 a.m. with lunch available, and golfers tee off in "shotgun" style at 12:30 p.m. Registration is $150 per golfer and includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, all beer, and nonalcoholic beverages during play, lunch, and dinner with a cash bar, and much more! Those wishing to attend only dinner can do so for $40.

The registration deadline for golfers is July 1, 2022. Contact Director of Development and Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6265 or via email at foundation@genesee.edu. The golfer registration form is also available online at https://gccfoundationinc.org/cougar-classic/

Most importantly, all proceeds go directly to the GCC student scholarship program, making higher education possible for deserving students in our community.

Press release:

The snow has started to show up, that means, it is time to Put on the Ritz! Tickets are on sale now at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore for the Genesee Community College Foundation's 2021 Encore celebration! This pop back to the roaring twenties will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 4, 2021, in the Richard C. Call Arena at GCC in Batavia.

With the help of presenting sponsor, Tompkins Financial Corporation, Encore co-chairs John and Cathy Witkowski have prepared a fun and festive throwback to the roaring twenties full of great food by the Mansard Inn and music by "Nik and the Nice Guys."

"The entire Encore committee is very grateful for the generosity of our sponsors this year," said Jennifer Wakefield director of Development and Alumni Affairs. "Their commitment to this event shows the value they place on student scholarships, and the future of our communities. This year in addition to great folks at Tompkins Financial, we are pleased to be working with Five Star Bank as the Speakeasy Lounge Sponsor, Oliver's Candies as the Cotton Club Confections Dessert Station Sponsor, CPL as the Charleston Dance Floor Sponsor, and ESL Federal Credit Union who is the Doll Face Photo Booth Sponsor."

Tickets include dinner, drinks, dancing and all the fun:

• 6 p.m. Cocktail hour with gourmet hors d'oeuvres, themed signature drinks and stylish jazz holiday music by "The DSP Jazz Trio"
• 7 p.m. Gourmet Buffet Stations
• 8 p.m. "Nik and the Nice Guys" take the night away with live music on the house dance floor.

GCC is also offering opportunities to sponsor the Encore event. These sponsorships are critically important to the scholarships GCC provides its students and are available at several levels this year: the High Roller Table - $1,500; the Rolls Royce Gild - $1,000; Studebaker Society - $600 and the Roadster Circle - $300. Each of these levels includes tickets (ten, six, four and two respectively) for the event. Of course, individual Platinum Patron Tickets are also available for $100 per person.

To help make a difference as a sponsor, please complete the online forms at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation is excited to announce tickets are now on sale for the 2021 Encore celebration taking place on Saturday, December 4, 2021, in the Richard C. Call Arena at GCC's Batavia Campus. Tickets are on sale now at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore

Since its inception, Encore has provided an opportunity for the local community to raise funds for student scholarships. In 2020, the Foundation awarded over $120,000 in scholarships. As the world and economic factors change, the need for scholarships grows - and so does Encore!

Under the direction of co-chairs John and Cathy Witkowski and with the help of presenting sponsor, Tompkins Financial Corporation, the GCC Foundation is Putting on the Ritz for one and all! Tickets include dinner, drinks, dancing, and a holiday concert by "Nik and the Nice Guys" on Saturday, December 4, 2021, from 6 - 10 p.m.

"GCC has seen tremendous growth over the years and part of the success is the generosity of the alumni and communities that surround the college," John Witkowski said. "It's an honor for Cathy and me to co-chair Encore - Putting on the Ritz! It's an event that supports our students and pays dividends for future success for not only the GLOW region but also globally."

"After putting three kids through school, John and I realize the fundamental importance of education and what it means to the future of our communities and families. Hosting this event is an opportunity for us to help many more students achieve their dreams for the future. There is nothing better than to support such a meaningful cause and have a great time while doing so," said Cathy Witkowski. "We are excited to bring back the positive side of the Roaring Twenties! We want everyone to join us for Putting on the Ritz on December 4, 2021!!"

John Witkowski has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Bankers Association of New York State (IBANYS) since 2014. IBANYS is the only trade association solely representing local, independent community banks in New York. He is a Director of the New York Business Development Corporation; ICBA Securities; the Genesee Community College Foundation and the Buffalo Bills Alumni Association.

Mr. Witkowski has extensive experience in the New York banking industry. He was President & CEO of Wyoming County Bank, and Regional President/EVP of Retail Banking at Five Star Bank where he oversaw small business development, mortgage operations, investment and fee-based services, and the retail branch network. Earlier in his career with Fleet and Bank of America, he developed strategic initiatives such as remote relationship management for small business customers. He also was President of JW Consulting Group, advising banks, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

A native New Yorker, Mr. Witkowski earned a degree in Economics from Columbia University in New York City. As a student-athlete and quarterback of the football team, he was the winner of the 1982 Asa A. Bushnell Cup for leadership, competitive spirit, contribution to the team, and accomplishments on the field. He holds 12 passing records, six total offense marks, and five Ivy League records. After graduating and before beginning his banking career, he was selected by the Detroit Lions in the 1984 National Football League draft and played several seasons in the NFL and the World League of American Football.

Tompkins Financial Corporation will be the presenting sponsor for the fabulous Putting on the Ritz evening and has donated generously to this year's student scholarships.

"At Tompkins, local is at the heart of who we are, which is why we value the direct impact GCC has on our local community," said David S. Boyce, Tompkins Insurance President & CEO. "Thank you to GCC for its role in educating our future leaders and leading us to a better tomorrow."

Each year, GCC offers opportunities to sponsor the Encore event. These sponsorships are critically important to the scholarships GCC provides its students and are available at several levels this year: the High Roller Table - $1,500; the Rolls Royce Gild - $1,000; Studebaker Society - $600; and the Roadster Circle - $300. Each of these levels includes tickets (ten, six, four and 2 respectively) for the event. Of course, individual Platinum Patron Tickets are also available for $100 per person.

To help make a difference as a sponsor, please complete the online forms at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation and Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble Honorary Chairperson Gina G. Giese ('91) have confirmed the Sixth Annual Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble will take place on Monday, July 19, at Stafford Country Club in Stafford.

Giese, a Batavia resident, earned an associate degree in Business and Marketing from GCC in 1991, a bachelor's degree in the same from Buffalo State College and an MBA from Canisius College. She has spent her career as a local business leader. She is currently retail regional manager, administrative vice president at M&T Bank in Batavia, where she started her career with the bank 32 years ago.

A devoted volunteer and member of GCC's Alumni Council since 2011, Giese has served on many committees including the Cougar Classic and GCC Alumni Panel Series. She and her husband, Walter, are golfers and have also volunteered on the PGA Tour.

"I am sincerely grateful to Gina for serving as chair for the sixth annual Cougar Classic," said Executive Director of the GCC Foundation, Justin Johnston. "In my time at GCC, I've enjoyed collaborating with her on our Alumni Council. Gina's leadership is vital to so many areas of GCC, and I look forward to working with her on this important initiative to raise scholarship funds for our GCC students."

The Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble allows up to 36 foursomes for the 18-hole event at the esteemed Stafford Country Club. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, all beer and nonalcoholic beverages during play, lunch and dinner with a cash bar, and much more!

Most importantly, all proceeds from the Cougar Classic support GCC student scholarship programs, making higher education possible for deserving students in our communities.

Businesses and individuals looking to take advantage of this event's advertising opportunities and lock in sponsorship levels are encouraged to act early and contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield directly at (585) 343-0055, ext. 6265, or via email at jgwakefield@genesee.edu.

Exciting new event details, registration and sponsorship forms will be available here.

Photo from a previous Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble, from left: Erik Fix, Samantha Schafer, Gina Geise and Walter Szczesny.

Press release:

When the Genesee Symphony Orchestra was presented with an opportunity to perform at Encore 2020 for the GCC Foundation, there was a harmonic and resounding "YES!" from members and board members alike. With that commitment, the virtual celebration which raises critical funds for student scholarships, began to take shape.

With the generous sponsorship from Tompkins Financial Advisors, Tompkins Bank of Castile, and Tompkins Insurance Agencies, the Encore 2020 committee, cochaired by Tom and Kim Cox, have built a spectacular event that everyone can enjoy on Saturday, Dec. 12 -- without having to go out in the snowy weather!

The entire event is available completely online and ticket access is on sale now.

As the "Be the Light" program details came into focus, the Genesee Symphony Orchestra (GSO) learned more and more about the time and efforts the staff at Genesee Community College had implemented to ensure the health and safety of the GSO members during rehearsals and filming.

"The members and I were honored to be asked to perform at GCC's Encore 2020," said GSO Music Director and Conductor S. Shade Zajac. "The care and consideration for our health and safety that GCC put into the preparations for this program allowed us to perform as a full orchestra, maintaining safe distances and even to magically perform a selection or two that include special appearances by members of the Genesee Chorale."

At 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12, the program will be broadcast for those with ticket access. Amongst the mix of holiday favorites, the GSO has included a special arrangement entitled "Christmas at the Movies" full of popular tunes from movies such as "The Polar Express," "Nightmare Before Christmas" and "A Miracle on 34th Street."

Through the magic of modern technology, the Genesee Chorale will "join" the GSO for two special pieces, a union that hasn't been made in quite some time.

The Conductor's Prediction: 'There Won't Be a Dry Eye'

"I am particularly excited about my personal selections for this performance which embody Encore's Be the Light theme," Zajac said. "The journey from darkness into light that is felt through the last movement of Beethoven's Symphony is so representative of this moment in time when we can be a light for someone's dark journey. It is indeed fitting for the end of 2020 as the 250th anniversary of his birth.

"My second selection, composed by Gustav Mahler, is called 'Resurrection' (Symphony #2). It is a gorgeous movement meaning 'primal light' that features the orchestra and a soprano soloist Brittany Burgess. It is only truly fantastic artists and musicians that can bring feeling to a piece -- and she has done that. There won't be a dry eye. On behalf of the GSO, I'd like to thank GCC for asking us to do this, it has been a gift to make some music as a group."

"Be the Light" is more than musical excellence, more than a performance, this will be a true audio and visual treat -- viewers will enjoy a unique and exclusive perspective to this show as only cameras can provide.

Encore 2020 is a critical component to the scholarship fundraising the GCC Foundation does every year to ensure students in need can continue to achieve their college dreams.

For ticket access, please visit https://gccfoundationinc.org/ or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

Press release:

There are a lot of plans and celebrations being postponed or even cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic this season. Leaders are encouraging people to stay home and avoid large events and gatherings. However, for nearly 30 years, The Genesee Community College Foundation has welcomed the holiday season by hosting a very special event -- Encore -- and global coronavirus pandemic or not, Encore must go on!

For months, GCC has been working with its generous and community-focused sponsor, Tompkins Financial, to ensure that the critical scholarship funds generated through the Encore event do not become another loss to the Coronavirus pandemic. Tom and Kim Cox are the cochairs and the outcome is nothing short of extraordinary!

The Genesee Symphony Orchestra & The Genesee Chorale will perform for Encore 2020 ONLINE.

Encore 2020, focused on the opportunity to "Be the Light" will be broadcast online through special ticketed access on Saturday, Dec. 12 at exactly 6 p.m. at https://gccfoundationinc.org/.

"Moving the Encore celebration online has truly taken some holiday magic," said Justin Johnston, vice president of GCC's Development and External Affairs. "Teams from multiple areas of the College and partners in our community have come together and created an evening that will fill everyone's homes with a festive warmth that can only come from knowing you are helping someone in need."

Encore 2020 VIP tickets include an extra special treat that supports local area restaurants through this difficult time as well! Click here to order your ticket access to the performance and select your favorite restaurant to take your Encore celebration on Dec. 12 to the next level!

For sponsorship and other information, visit https://gccfoundationinc.org/ or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

Submitted photo and press release:

When Thomas A. and Kim M. Cox found out that Genesee Community College intended to move forward with their annual Encore event on Saturday, Dec. 12, despite the obstacles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, they were intrigued.

"We've always enjoyed working with GCC, including on Encore in the past and we have been supporters of the GCC Foundation and the scholarships it provides for years," said Tom Cox. "We were excited to take on the challenge when the Foundation asked us to return and cochair Encore 2020."

Last month, Kim and Tom, a current member of the GCC Foundation Board of Directors, kicked off the Encore 2020 efforts and got right to work.

The couple excitedly announced that this year's Encore event is being sponsored by Tompkins Financial Advisors, Tompkins Bank of Castile, and Tompkins Insurance Agencies.

"Tompkins has always been community focused, and now more than ever, it's important for organizations to step up and recognize the impact GCC has on its students and our community," said David S. Boyce, Tompkins Insurance president and CEO. "Thank you to GCC for its role in educating our future leaders."

With the support of Tompkins Financial, the GCC Foundation has been able to secure very special performances by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra as well as a special appearance by members of the Genesee Chorale!

Perhaps the newest feature of this year's Encore event will be the venue -- the entire performance will be available online! Visit here for tickets to access the performance from the comfort of one's own home and an extra special offer that will make the evening even brighter!

Join the virtual celebration on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m.

To "Be the Light" and sponsor Encore 2020, please complete the online forms here or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

The following sponsorships are available:

• Virtual Table Sponsor – $2,000 Sponsorship includes 10 tickets to the event, program recognition, and dinner for 10 (takeout or gift certificate).
• Conductor’s Circle Sponsor – $1,000 – Sponsorship includes six tickets to the event, program recognition and dinner for six (takeout or gift certificate).
• Golden Baton Society Sponsor – $600 – Sponsorship includes four tickets to the event, program recognition and dinner for four (takeout or gift certificate).
• Inner Circle Sponsor – $300 – Sponsorship includes two tickets to the event, program recognition and dinner for two (takeout or gift certificate).
• Platinum Patron Ticket – $100 – Ticket includes one ticket to the event, and dinner for one (takeout or gift certificate).
• Concert Ticket – $50 – Ticket includes admission for one to the event (no dinner).

Area Restaurants Generously Supporting Encore with Dinner Takeout Menus

Alex’s Place – Batavia

Black & Blue – Rochester

Hole In The Wall  – Perry

Yard of Ale – Piffard

Zambistro Restaurant – Medina

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2020 recipient of the Alpha Medal of Service will be Robert L. Boyce, of Le Roy

Boyce will receive this honor as part of the College's first Virtual Commencement Ceremony at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, which is being livestreamed at www.genesee.edu.

Since it was established in 2006, the Alpha Medal of Service has honored individuals who have provided extraordinary volunteer and/or philanthropic support to Genesee Community College.

This distinguished Medal recognizes recipients that exemplify high levels of service to the College and the community and expresses appreciation to individuals whose influence positively impacts the growth and well-being of Genesee Community College.

Boyce served as president of the Genesee Community College Foundation from 2012-2015 and a board member since 2005, during which time he volunteered his time and energy in a number of different capacities including serving on: the Finance Committee and the Fund Development Committee as chairman; the Risk Management Committee; several Annual Campaign committees; as well as the search committees for GCC's annual fund director. 

Now a retired insurance broker from Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Boyce was the president and CEO of Ernest Townsend and Son Inc. from 1972 through 2000, when he sold his interest in the firm to the Tompkins Holding Company.

His other civic leadership commitments include: nine years on the United Memorial Medical Center Group Board, including a term as president; 10 years serving as president with the Le Roy Emergency Ambulance Service; and 50 years as a member and past president of the Le Roy International Rotary Club, where he is also a Paul Harris Fellow.

He was a member of the Town of Le Roy Board of Assessment and Review for 15 years and a trustee of Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Le Roy. He was recently named the LeRoyan of the Year in 2018.

Boyce served in the Army and graduated with a Business degree from the University of Buffalo.

In his spare time, he enjoys time with his wife, Elizabeth (Beth), their three adult children and six grandchildren. He is also a 50-year veteran season ticket holder for both the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres.

The Genesee Community College Foundation promotes philanthropy and volunteer support on behalf of Genesee Community College. The Foundation Board is comprised of leading civic and business leaders, all volunteers, who guide the Foundation's fundraising programs, endowment funds, and stewardship activities, and who serve as advocates for Genesee Community College.

To learn more about how you could support the Genesee Community College Foundation, please visit online here.

Press release:

Genesee Community College Foundation is proud to announce that Tompkins Financial, one of the community's leading financial services companies, is the Benefactor Sponsor of "Encore: An Evening of Elegance," which is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. in the Richard C. Call Arena at GCC's Batavia Campus.

The proceeds from Encore, the Foundation's premiere fundraising event, directly benefit the scholarship program at Genesee Community College.

Scholarships recognize academic excellence, keep talented students within the GLOW community, ease financial hardships for students and prepare students for careers in occupations that are critical to this region's growth.

"Tompkins is pleased to be the lead sponsor of this important event and to celebrate the importance of GCC to our community, and its students as our future leaders," said David S. Boyce, Tompkins Insurance president and CEO.

Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, Encore has provided a fun and festive opportunity for the community to gather in the fine spirit of the holiday to raise funds for student scholarships. In 2018, the Foundation awarded more than $145,000 in scholarships to GCC students in financial need.

This year's event is co-chaired by Mary Blevins and Jenna Holota.

With guests wearing their stylish cocktail attire, "An Evening of Elegance" includes the following:

• Cocktail Hour with DSP Jazz Trio (6 p.m.)
• Dinner Reception with sensational food stations (7:15 p.m.)
• Holiday Favorites and Pop Music by Nik and the Nice Guys (8-10 p.m.)
• Delectable Desserts (8:30 p.m.)

Tickets cost:

• $1,000 -- Holiday Chord Circle (for six tickets)
• $600 -- Golden Guitar (for four tickets)
• $300 -- Inner Circle (for two tickets)
• $100 -- Platinum Patron (single ticket)

​Tickets to attend Encore 2019 are on sale now here, or through the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu.

Press release:

As co-chairs for Genesee Community College Foundation's 2018 Encore celebration, Thomas A. and Kim M. Cox have been busy finalizing details that are sure to deliver a dazzling "Let it GLOW" evening! Join the entire GCC community for the all-new 2018 Encore celebration on Saturday, Dec. 1, in the new Richard C. Call Arena at the Batavia Campus. Put on your dancing shoes! 

Since its inception, the Encore Gala has provided an opportunity for the local community to raise funds for student scholarships. In 2017, the Foundation awarded over $224,000 in scholarships. As the world and economic factors change, the need for scholarships grows -- and so does Encore!

The Let it GLOW 2018 Encore Celebration will be full of surprises! For the first time ever, the Encore celebration will transform the new Richard C. Call Arena into a festive, jovial party place with lights illuminating the space and adding to the atmosphere. Attendees will find convenient parking, and there will be no need to walk around campus-rather everyone can enjoy all the fun in the new facility!

Guests will be welcomed into the Arena for cocktail hour at 6 p.m. featuring several special Let It GLOW themed signature drinks sponsored by the Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel LLC and the Dibble Family & Event Center on behalf of Michael and Valerie Tomaszewski. Mingle and taste test the delicious beverages while listening to stylish jazz holiday music provided by The DSP Jazz Trio. Following cocktail hour, at 7 p.m. guests will delight in a gourmet dinner prepared by American Dining Creations.

Then, beginning at 8 p.m. put on your dancing shoes and dance the night away on the Arena field house dance floor as your holiday favorites are performed by nationally acclaimed "Nik and the Nice Guys."

There is still time to become a sponsor for this fabulous new Encore celebration and Scholarship fundraiser. Visit here today for details!

Sponsorship opportunities are critically important to the event and are available at: the Holiday Chord Circle -- $1,000; the Golden Guitar Society -- $600; and the Inner Circle -- $300. Each of these includes tickets (six, four or two respectively) for the gala and recognition in the Encore 2018 program and the live Encore 2018 display.

To become a Let it GLOW sponsor, please visit here or contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or foundation@genesee.edu today.

Submitted photos and press release:

With the start of a new academic year, Genesee Community College will take an evening to "Discover the Stars" with its annual scholarship reception. On Monday, Sept. 10 from 5 - 7 p.m., the Stuart Steiner Theatre at the Batavia campus will be filled with scholarship donors, recipients and the families of both to celebrate the shared significance of academic achievement.

The annual Discover the Stars Scholarship Reception celebrates "Scholarships in Action."

"The Discover the Stars reception is an annual opportunity that brings together the families, legacies, and stories of GCC's cherished scholarship donors and puts them in the room with the bright, hopeful, and promising faces of the scholarship recipients," said Robert J. Bennett, event emcee and member of the Genesee Community College Foundation Board of Directors.

(Jane M. Bickett)

The 2018 Discover the Stars event will feature two keynote speakers: Jane M. Bickett, GCC Class of 1981, a senior business systems analyst of Eastman Kodak Company, as well as Scott A. Gardner, GCC Class of 1998, who is president and CEO of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce.

At Eastman Kodak Company, Jane Bickett is responsible for the technical functionality and business processes for global billing and invoicing in more than 30 countries. Her business experience includes computer system administration and serving as a team leader of a computer programming group involving frequent international travel.

Through her 36-year career, she has actively participated in the technical evolution of business from implementation of basic local word processing applications to global procedures and computing. She is a native of Le Roy, and earned her Computer Programming A.A.S degree from GCC in 1981.

(Scott A. Gardner)

Born and raised in Warsaw, Scott Gardner became president of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce in 2013, continuing his lifelong interest in making Wyoming County a vibrant community. He previously was a legislative aide and chief of staff to Assemblymen Thomas M. Reynolds and Daniel J. Burling, respectively. He currently serves as the chairman of the Wyoming Foundation, and holds the rank of Major in the Civil Air Patrol, in addition to a number of other volunteer and leadership positions.

Gardner earned his A.A.S Paralegal from GCC in 1998 and attended SUNY Empire State College where he concentrated on Public Policy and Public Affairs. He was recently inducted into GCC's Alumni Hall of Fame and served as honorary chair of GCC's Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble Golf Tournament and also the Nursing program's Gatsby Gala.

The Genesee Community College Foundation accepts scholarship donations throughout the year and has full-time dedicated staff in place to assist any donor in establishing a scholarship, or even in funding an existing one, such as the Genesee Alumni Legacy Scholarship.

Details on the scholarships available to students is available at https://www.genesee.edu/offices/finaid/scholarships/ and new applications will be accepted starting Sept. 1st. Interested applicants are encouraged to review and apply right online! The simple online application collects information and matches applicants with a list of scholarships they may qualify for. Experts are available in GCC's Financial Aid Office at (585)345-6900 or via email at financialaid@genesee.edu.

Submitted photo and press release: 

The Genesee Community College Foundation will be shaking things up this December with a new venue for the 27th annual Encore Gala. Before the first crocuses and daffodils are up, GCC suggests that all community members "save the date" for the 2018 Encore celebration on Saturday, Dec. 1 in the brand new Richard C. Call Arena at the Batavia Campus. 

The annual Encore Gala raises funds for student scholarships giving the local community the opportunity to support students through the College Foundation, while enjoying a very special evening that kicks off the holiday season.

This year, co-chairs Thomas A. and Kim M. Cox, pictured above, are working with the GCC Foundation to plan something truly exciting for the 2018 Encore Gala under the theme, "Let it GLOW."

"We are honored to chair the 2018 Encore Gala and are excited to be having this event in the new Richard C. Call Arena," Kim Cox said with an enthusiastic smile. "In addition to the new venue, we have many surprises planned for the evening."

Tom, a retired superintendent of Gananda Central School District and Kim, retired superintendent of Le Roy Central School District, both recognize the importance of education and supporting the Foundation's scholarship program at GCC. Their career-long passion for education made them a perfect couple to chair the 2018 Encore Gala. Tom and Kim currently reside in Conesus.

"From the first committee meeting, it was clear that the 2018 Encore celebration would be a unique celebration," Richard Ensman, executive director of GCC Foundation said. "Tom and Kim have some great ideas, but the real motivation behind Encore comes from the scholarship opportunities it funds for GCC students." 

For more information about Encore please contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809, or via email to foundation@genesee.edu.

Press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation is proud to announce its 2017 and 2018 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees. The entire community is invited to join us at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, in the Conable Technology Building at One College Road in Batavia for the induction ceremony.

Candidates for the Alumni Hall of Fame are nominated by friends, family, colleagues or other associates.

Each of the selected honorees has made impactful contributions to their profession and has provided distinguished service to the community and/or Genesee Community College. The GCC Alumni Hall of Fame, which is located on the second floor of the Conable Technology Building, boasts honorees from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds.

Each of these outstanding GCC graduates has made a lasting impact on their communities and earned this honor. We are proud to welcome the following to the Alumni Hall of Fame:

2017 Inductees

George Walker IV, '98, SVP of Creative Development, Dynamic Attractions

James Branciforte, '80, CEO Lifetime Assistance Inc.

2018 Inductees

Georgann Carrubba, '03, President and CEO, Tencar

Scott Gardner, '98, President and CEO, Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce

The complete list of Hall of Fame members is available at www.genesee.edu/alumni/HallofFame/.

The Alumni Hall of Fame Induction is free and open to the public. GCC welcomes all Hall of fame members, GCC alumni, and of course, the friends and family of our newest inductees to attend this celebration.

GCC Foundation Encore 2017 co-chairs Jim and Patty Pacino.

Submitted photos and press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation is excited to share the line-up for its 2017 Encore gala: Icicles and Pearls on Tuesday, Dec. 12. All are invited to support the College Foundation by reserving tickets and enjoying this beautiful and delicious evening!

Proceeds from Encore support the GCC Foundation Scholarship Fund, which awarded over $127,000 in scholarships last year helping to keep talented students in our communities and helping students overcome financial hardships. Under the leadership of co-chairs, Jim and Patti Pacino, an amazing gala is underway to ensure the scholarship fund continues to support our deserving students.

The 2017 Encore gala will begin at 5 p.m. with a Prelude Reception accompanied by harpist Denise Duthe (inset photo, right) in the lobby of the Stuart Steiner Theatre.

The reception will feature the exhibit, "Waterworks: Water Tables & Other Aquatic Accoutrements" by artist, Jennifer Hecker, on display at the Roz Steiner Art Gallery. Guests are invited to meet the artist and view these powerful water sculptures.

A formal dinner reception featuring seasonal favorites and culinary masterpieces by American Dining Creations will begin at 6 p.m. in the William W. Stuart Forum. During dinner, guests will enjoy a contemporary jazz ensemble by the Derek Reiss Group. A cash bar with beverage service will be provided by the Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel LLC and the Dibble Family & Event Center on behalf of Michael and Valerie Tomaszewski.

After dinner, at 7:45 p.m., guests will be escorted to the Stuart Steiner Theatre for a special Holiday Pops Concert performed by the two-time Grammy Award winning, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra led by resident conductor, Stefan Sanders.

Since 2014, Sanders has led more than 200 performances with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. He is also the newly appointed music director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra and the Round Rock Symphony in Central Texas.

This year, he will serve as the principal conductor for the 2018 Hot Springs Music Festival in Arkansas. Recent guest conducting appearances have taken him from Poland to Ecuador, as well as around the United States to Virginia, Naples, Syracuse, San Antonio, Austin and Corpus Christi. He studied at the University of Texas at Austin and was a fellow at the American Academy of Conducting at Aspen. He is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and the Juilliard School. This will be Sanders' final season with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. 

The BPO's performance at Encore will feature principal oboist Henry Ward. A Philadelphia area native, Ward previously served two seasons as acting associate principal oboe for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Ward's solo debut was in 2012 when he performed Mozart's Oboe Concerto in C Major with the Carnegie Mellon Chamber Orchestra.

The spectacular Encore evening concludes with an exquisite dessert reception at 9:30 p.m. held in the Wolcott J. Humphrey III Student Union.

"This year's Encore gala is sure to be a special evening for all. From the 'Waterworks' exhibit in the art gallery, to the delicious meal and the moving musical performances, Encore is truly an evening to celebrate all that the GCC Foundation brings to our communities," says Encore Chairperson Patti Pacino. "My husband, Jim, and I are thrilled and honored to be a part of it this year."

Once again this year, Five Star Bank led the support for Encore as the Benefactor Sponsor. However, sponsorship opportunities are still available at the following levels: 

Conductor's Circle -- $1,000 entitles donor to six tickets to the gala and Prelude Reception

Golden Baton Society -- $600 entitles donor to four tickets to the gala and Prelude Reception

Inner Circle -- $300 entitles donor to two tickets to the gala and Prelude Reception

Patron -- to attend the gala, supporters can purchase tickets for $100 each

To become a 2017 Encore sponsor, please contact the Foundation Office at (585) 345-6809.

Questions regarding the Encore event can be directed to the GCC Foundation at (585) 345-6809 or via email foundation@genesee.edu

Below is principal oboist Henry Ward. Bottom photo is Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Resident Conductor Stefan Sanders.