$8 Million Gala? Clearing Up the Confusion Around Schenectady Fundraisers
$8 Million Gala? Clearing Up the Confusion Around Schenectady Fundraisers
By Schenectamag Staff
Recent claims circulating online and in conversation suggest that a Schenectady Foundation RISE Gala raised an impressive $8 million. However, a closer look at local events and fundraising records reveals that this figure is likely the result of confusion between multiple foundations and initiatives in Schenectady, not a single gala event.
What Actually Happened
1. The Education Celebration Gala by SCSDEF
The Schenectady City School District Educational Foundation (SCSDEF) hosted its annual Education Celebration Gala on April 11, 2024. This event celebrated achievements in local public education and honored community members who contribute to the district’s growth. At this year's celebration, $67,000 in new grants were awarded to 32 educators and programs. Since its founding in 2004, the foundation has distributed more than $500,000 in classroom and school grants.
There is no record of an event called RISE Gala hosted by the SCSDEF, nor any indication that a single gala affiliated with this organization has raised millions.
2. Rivers Casino “Rivers Gives” July Campaign
In a separate act of local generosity, Rivers Casino selected SCSDEF as the July recipient of its “Rivers Gives” initiative, which supports nonprofit organizations each month. That campaign raised $8,188.58 in donations for the foundation. While a generous contribution, this is significantly less than $8 million, making it clear that the figure being discussed does not stem from this fundraiser.
3. The $8.5 Million Campaign at SUNY Schenectady
The SUNY Schenectady Foundation, which supports Schenectady County Community College, is in fact the organization connected to the $8 million figure, but with important context. The foundation’s “Rising Together” campaign, launched in May 2023, recently surpassed $8.5 million raised. A gala event held on June 20, 2025, at Rivers Casino helped celebrate the milestone, but the money was raised over time through a wide-ranging effort, not in one night.
The campaign supports scholarships, workforce development, and access to higher education. While the gala celebrated this achievement, attributing the entire $8 million to that single evening is misleading.
Conclusion
There is no public record, press release, or verified source confirming that a Schenectady-based RISE Gala raised $8 million. The figure appears to originate from SUNY Schenectady’s long-term campaign and has been mistakenly linked to other educational events in the city.
As Schenectady continues to grow through community-driven support and philanthropy, it’s important that the public has accurate information about the events and efforts shaping local education and opportunity.
For now, the facts are clear. No one-night gala has raised $8 million in Schenectady. But with continued support from organizations, residents, and donors, the city continues to move forward.
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