Brandys to Receive Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Buffalo State distinguished alumnus James Brandys, ’71, ’73, will be honored as the region’s outstanding volunteer fundraiser at the 2011 Western New York Philanthropy Awards. The Western New York chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals will present the award at its National Philanthropy Day luncheon on Wednesday, November 16, at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens, 6461 Transit Road, Depew.

Brandys devotes substantial time and resources to his alma mater and other community organizations. He is chair of the Buffalo State College Planned Giving Committee, a member of the Buffalo State College Council and the Foundation Advisory Committee, and a past member of the Buffalo State College Foundation Board of Directors. He also serves as a member of the Burchfield Penney Art Center Board of Trustees.

He received the Buffalo State Foundation Chairman’s Special Recognition award in 1991 and 1999, the Esprit de Corps award from the Burchfield Penney in 2004, and Buffalo State’s Individual Philanthropic Leadership award in 2007.

Brandys began his career as a financial consultant in 1973 and now works as managing director for investments and wealth management adviser at the Brandys Paslaqua Group of Merrill Lynch.

National Philanthropy Day is a celebration that acknowledges individuals and organizations whose long-term contributions of financial support, time, and talent have made a significant impact on the community. Award winners are chosen based on philanthropic leadership, organizational abilities in fundraising campaigns, achievements resulting from volunteer efforts, overall community involvement, and success in recruiting and motivating others.