Anthony L. Gugino '79

Anthony L. Gugino ’79 is executive vice president of Tompkins Financial Advisors, Inc., and a certified financial planner. Thanks to that experience, he is well aware of the benefits of charitable giving both for the donor and the recipient.

When Tony attended St. John Fisher University he was, like many of his classmates, a “first-timer,” or the first person in his family to attend college. He credits the education and support he received as a Fisher student for the success he and his family enjoy today. He knew he wanted to do something to show his appreciation for the University, something that would enable other "first-timers" to enjoy the benefits of a Fisher education.

After careful consideration, Tony has chosen to demonstrate his appreciation in two ways. First, he established the Anthony L. Gugino ’79 Scholarship Fund. Through annual donations to the Fisher Fund, he is able to provide financial assistance to a full-time undergraduate, first-generation student who demonstrates financial need.

Second, Tony has arranged for a planned (future) gift to the University through his estate. He has named the University as the beneficiary of a portion of his life insurance, and insurance proceeds will be added to the endowed Gugino Scholarship fund. This planned gift will serve to enhance the scholarship fund’s benefits and provide assistance to additional students.

Through his annual fund giving, Tony received income-tax deductions today. In addition, through his planned gift, his estate will benefit from an estate-tax charitable deduction.

"The friendships that I made during my years at Fisher are my closest friends today. I feel very fortunate that I am able to give back to Fisher as a small token of my appreciation," said Tony.