Back the Brook Makes History with Over $93,000 Impact for Student Experiences

Back the Brook, the first-ever 24-hour crowdfunding event supporting student clubs, organizations and athletic programs at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, launched on November 19 to resounding success — demonstrating the heart, spirit and generosity of the Seawolves community. Through the combined efforts of crowdfunding, matching funds and challenges, over $93,000 was raised to support student experiences and bring these student-led goals to life.

Thanks to the generosity of more than 500 alumni, faculty, staff, students, friends and parents, over $45,000 in gifts were made to unlock an additional $48,500 in matches and challenges. These funds will support the 22 participating student groups and all 18 Division I athletic programs who took part in Back the Brook this year.

“The impressive response we received from our community is exciting to witness. The Stony Brook community of students, alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends far surpassed our goals for this inaugural Back the Brook effort. That speaks volumes about the strength of our Stony Brook community and their commitment to supporting student success,” said Scott Barrett, interim vice president for Advancement. “This remarkable impact will unlock new opportunities for our student groups as they grow, innovate and further enhance campus life in powerful ways.”

The $48,500 in matches and challenges provided bonus funding thanks to the Stony Brook Alumni Association, Stony Brook Student Affairs, the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS) Dean’s Council Members, Dr. Leonard ’80 and Ileen Moss, Guy Miller ’93 and other anonymous donors. Every student group benefited from the matches and challenges, with organizations like Stony Brook Sailing, Stony Brook Crew and SBU Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) receiving extra funding from special challenges throughout the day.

On campus, representatives from participating Back the Brook student groups met with Seawolves at the SAC Shore Club and Union Lobby to talk about their goals and share their visions. Graduating seniors who made a gift also had the opportunity to earn their generosity cords.

“The Stony Brook Equestrian Team thanks everyone for all of the support given to us. Because of you, we can continue doing what we love!” said Olivia Smyth, president of the Stony Brook Equestrian Team.

All participating student clubs and organizations made progress toward their goals, with Stony Brook Sailing, Stony Brook Crew, Strong Brook Fencing and Alternative Spring Break Outreach (ASBO) reaching or surpassing their crowdfunding goals. The students can now get to work creating new opportunities for their peers, increasing their community impact, competing among the best in the country, showcasing their culture, innovating and inventing, introducing students to new interests and unlocking limitless possibilities for growth. 

“Because of you, our dreams have room to grow and our purpose has the power to reach farther. Your support empowers us to turn compassion into action and education into impact. We are truly inspired by your commitment to the future of nursing. Thank you,” said Lauren Friedrich, president of the Stony Brook Student Nurses’ Association (SBSNA).

As Back the Brook comes to a close at Stony Brook, a new tradition is just beginning. With over 500 student clubs and organizations on campus, and even more ideas on the horizon, there’s no end to what Seawolves can do when they come together.

Those still wishing to make a gift and help these student groups cross the finish line may do so until Monday, November 24, at noon through sbugiving.com/backthebrook. 

-Kristina Brandt