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For Marie Rader and Jim Angiulo, philanthropy begins with a simple belief: making a difference in the lives of others doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to come from the heart. 

 

Hear from Rader and Angiulo about why they give in the video above.

“I really enjoy all different parts of philanthropy because you’re going with your soul, going with your heart,” Rader said. “You have to think about what you really believe in and what is important to you.” 

For Rader and Angiulo, those beliefs have inspired a deep commitment to �鶹����Ƶ and its students. The local philanthropists recently committed $6.4 million to support students studying nursing, fashion and music. The gift includes an outright donation of $400,000 and a $6 million bequest, extending their investment in the university and to the next generation of professionals. 

Their generosity is rooted in their belief in the mission of �鶹����Ƶ State and the quality of its education – as well as a personal connection. Both have taken courses at the university, where their experiences influenced their interests and appreciation for the institution. Angiulo earned a certificate in health informatics, while Rader discovered a passion for textile dyeing that eventually led her to lead workshops in the discipline for other students. 

Those experiences reinforced what the couple already believed: education has the power to open doors, cultivate passions and create opportunities that reach far beyond the classroom. 

“We just genuinely care about people,” Angiulo said. “And what better place could you spend a dollar than here at �鶹����Ƶ State? It’s like the pebble in the pond. You have water that undulates from the point, and it just spreads and spreads.” 

That ripple effect is central to how Rader and Angiulo approach giving. Their philanthropy is both personal and purposeful, directed toward resources and opportunities that can have a lasting impact on students and the university community. 

Some of their previous investments in nursing simulation labs, advanced digital knitting machines and associated software help ensure �鶹����Ƶ State students have access to the tools and technology needed to learn, innovate and prepare for their careers. By supporting these resources, Rader and Angiulo are helping students build the skills and confidence to compete in an evolving job market. 

Their previous giving has also supported a range of university initiatives, including the Library Development Fund, Blossom Music Center Fund, College of Nursing, New York Fashion Housing Fund and the annual School of Fashion student showcase. 

“Through their generous philanthropy, Jim and Marie have shown that they not only believe in the students and the great work happening here, but they are also willing to invest in the future of �鶹����Ƶ State,” said Todd Diacon, �鶹����Ƶ president. “They have already had a transformational effect on students and will continue to do so into the future. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and steadfast support.” 

With their latest commitment, Rader and Angiulo will provide support across three academic areas: 

College of Nursing 

• $2 million to create The Marie Rader R.N. Fund for Technology in Nursing to support the acquisition of technology that strengthens student learning, faculty instruction and clinical training opportunities. 

• $1 million to create The Marie Rader R.N. Nursing Scholarship to support students enrolled in the Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. 

School of Fashion 

• $2 million to create the Clarity Colors Lab Support Endowment Fund to ensure that the KnitLab and, TechStyle Lab, as well as future labs remain functional, relevant and sustainable. 

• $400,000 to establish two new endowments, as well $10,000 to support the NYC Housing Fund for �鶹����Ƶ State students who are studying at the university’s New York City Fashion program. The first endowment, The Clarity Colors Top Junior Designer Fund, recognizes an outstanding junior fashion design student as they develop a senior BFA collection. The second, The Clarity Colors Competition Fund, provides financial support for a student selected to represent �鶹����Ƶ State in the Supima Design Competition or another premier fashion competition. 

School of Music 

• $1 million to create The James Angiulo School of Music Emergency Fund that provides essential financial assistance to students including expenses such as tuition, fees, food, shelter, educationally related technology or emergency travel costs. 

While the couple’s gifts support specific programs and resources, their philosophy of philanthropy extends beyond any single donation. For Rader and Angiulo, giving is about recognizing what matters, finding ways to help and encouraging others to do the same. 

They hope their example will inspire others to invest in the people and causes they believe in. 

“We just love to pay it forward, and we hope that one day, people will follow our example and continue,” Angiulo said. 

Rader believes that spirit of generosity is accessible to everyone. Philanthropy, she said, is not defined by the amount someone can give, but by a willingness to participate and make a difference. 

“Philanthropy doesn't necessarily mean it's all about giving lots and lots and lots of dollars,” Rader said. “It's all about actually getting yourself out there, and if you can afford it, start with $2. I did when I didn't have much money.” 

For Rader and Angiulo, that is what giving is ultimately about: supporting others, creating opportunities and setting in motion a ripple effect that continues long after the initial act of generosity. 

The generosity of donors ensures students can succeed during their time at �鶹����Ƶ State. To make a gift now or explore funds that benefit student scholarships, academic programs and more, .