Foundation Honors Supporters with Inaugural Impact Award

Given to individuals or organizations who inspire others through their philanthropy and volunteerism, the WCU Foundation Impact Award honors recipients who demonstrate a passion for West Chester University, its students, and the community. We thank all honorees and supporters for the lasting impact their generosity has had and will continue to have on our students and community — their commitment helps shape the future of WCU and makes a difference in the lives of students like Kristina Williams, our student speaker for the evening. Kristina, a senior majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Literacy, is a PRIZE Ambassador who exemplifies leadership and service through her mentorship of high school students.

Inaugural Recipients:

John J. Brignola ’83 and Family
John Brignola raised his twin daughters, Jacqui and Jenna, in West Chester, where they have many fond memories. They are a close-knit family who value giving back to the community, specifically WCU. John received his undergraduate degree, and Jacqui received a master’s degree from WCU. The Brignola Family is grateful for their education at this University and the opportunities it has provided. In giving back, they hope to make similar opportunities more accessible for WCU students. Through their gift to the Fund for Unpaid Internships, established in 2021, they have helped make higher education more accessible for future generations of Rams. The Unpaid Internship Fund has supported 169 students, with 20 students benefiting from the fund this fall alone. The Brignola family’s commitment to the University and its students will continue to create lasting opportunities for many more in the years to come.

State Farm Insurance Companies
A corporate partner that has supported West Chester University since 2006, State Farm Insurance Companies has given more than $680,000 in funding for initiatives like the Michael Horrocks Leadership Institute, Student Affairs Leadership Development, and the Dowdy Multicultural Center with the goal of empowering students to broaden their leadership skills and foster a spirit of inclusiveness. They’ve also established the State Farm Leadership Experience, a series of programs and trainings focused on preparing WCU students to be the next generation of innovative problem solvers.

Pictured above (L-R) : Jacqueline Brignola M’21, John J. Brignola ’83, Deb Cornelius ’91, President Laurie Bernotsky, Zeb Davenport, and Dwayne Redd (State Farm).