Parents are big supporters of the university during the spring Phonathon

Public Relations major Kellie Fox was manager of the student phonothon.

The spring Phonathon, conducted by the University Advancement division and coordinated by Director of Development Timothy Murphy, brought in over $22,000 in pledges mainly from SUNY Fredonia parents. The three week event supports the efforts of the Fredonia College Foundation in providing scholarship and program support to the university.

Mr. Murphy told the student callers at a recent recognition event that the Phonothon had “a very good year in a very tough economy.”

The students had a pool of over 4,600 prospects and attempted a total of 11,568 calls in 254 telemarketing hours, garnering a total of 755 pledges and gifts. They were honored by student Phonathon manager Kellie Fox and student supervisor Courtney Blackmon. Mr. Murphy also thanked Ms. Fox and Ms. Blackmon, both seniors, for their Phonothon efforts.

Student callers included Casey Beuler, Zyris McCormick, Stephanie Patterson, Amanda Scafetta, Allison Terrana, Pete Vigiletta, Shea Calleri, Andrew Condon, Jenell Dilcher, Heidi Frame, Cory Greiner, Johanna Kern, Brittany Kerr, Chris Hillman, John Pogorzelski, and Megghan Connolly.

Ms. Calleri of Clarence, N.Y., was recognized as the top caller of the spring Phonathon with 102 pledges totaling $3,090 in pledges, followed by Ms. Kern and Mr. Pogorzelski.

The 755 pledges represented a slight increase from 2008, with the average pledge of $30. Parents enjoyed talking to the callers, often asking them about their majors or the campus.

Vice President for University Advancement David Tiffany was on hand during the recognition event, thanking the students for their efforts and reminding them to put this experience on their resume. Mr. Murphy announced that Ms. Connolly will serve as Phonothon manager and Ms. Scafetta, student supervisor, for 2009-2010.