Buffalo State to Host Second Annual Livestream Fundraiser to Support Student Need

Buffalo State College will present Bengalathon 2021, a fundraiser designed to provide emergency financial assistance and academic scholarships for its students, on Saturday, April 24, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Bengalathon will air live on WBBZ-TV and be livestreamed on the Buffalo State College Facebook page. 

For 24 consecutive years, Buffalo State has hosted its largest fundraiser, Bengala, which has generated millions of dollars in scholarship funds. The college’s signature fundraising event was reimagined in 2020 to a livestream virtual fundraiser in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The first Bengalathon exceeded its fundraising goal to help students overcome obstacles and continue their education during the global pandemic. The college hopes that Bengalathon 2021 will surpass its financial goal this year.

During the event, viewers will hear a special message from Buffalo State President Katherine Conway-Turner and stories from Buffalo State students, alumni, and donors.

“All of us at Buffalo State can be proud of what we have accomplished adapting to social distancing and the virtual learning environment,” Conway-Turner said. “We have been successful because everyone did his or her part, something that symbolizes a campus community that comes together to solve challenges.

“It has been inspiring to witness the generosity of our donors and alumni who have stepped up to remove barriers through financial support and, ultimately, enable our students to envision a path toward earning their degrees and realizing their fullest potential.” 

Viewers will have the opportunity to bid on auction items and donate directly through the Bengalathon website. Buffalo State staff members will also stand by to take calls for donations at (833) GIVE-BSC (1-833-448-3272).

To participate, tune into Bengalathon on WBBZ-TV or the Buffalo State College Facebook page.