Dake Family & Stewart’s Shops Give $1M to Siena University

Siena University has received a transformational, student-focused gift of $1 million from Stewart's Shops and the Dake family. This gift will provide equity of experience for generations of Saints. The Stewart's and Dake Family Opportunity Fund is a direct investment in Siena students, providing them with expanded access to the full breadth of the Siena education.

"I believe any student who desires the Education for a Lifetime should have access to it, but access alone isn't enough," said Siena University President Chuck Seifert, Ph.D. "We must also commit to equity of experience - ensuring that every Saint can fully engage in the opportunities that define a Siena education, regardless of financial circumstances. We are deeply grateful to Susan, to the Dake family, and to Stewart's for their shared vision and transformational gift."

A Commitment to Opportunity

Susan Dake H'21, a Siena Board Member Emerita, and the Dake family have long demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunity. Through Stewart's Shops, that commitment has taken shape across the Capital Region and beyond with meaningful investments in people, neighborhoods, and organizations that make a real difference.

At Siena, that shared philosophy has impacted generations of students.

"Making college accessible is important to the Dake family and Stewart's, and tuition is a wonderful start," said Susan Dake, President of the Stewart's Foundation. "But there are many other expenses that students face. I want students to have the full college experience without worrying about essential expenses like textbooks and laptops."

That perspective - grounded in compassion and a particular belief in the transformative power of a Siena education - led to the creation of the Opportunity Fund, designed to meet students where they are and provide support when they need it most.

Removing Barriers, Expanding Possibility

The Stewart's and Dake Family Opportunity Fund will remove barriers that can stand in the way of full participation in the student experience. Funding will support a wide range of needs, including textbooks and academic supplies, laptops, experiential learning opportunities, field trips, transportation for internships, and immersive experiences. Just as importantly, it will allow Siena to respond quickly to unexpected student needs - ensuring that financial hardship does not limit opportunity.

"We like the idea of immediate use of our donations," said Dake, who began her professional career as a teacher in the Saratoga Springs City School District. "Sometimes students just need help in the moment to stay on track. Being able to make things happen quickly can make all the difference."

By addressing both the visible and unseen challenges students face, the Opportunity Fund strengthens not only individual success, but the broader community.

Educating Leaders and Inspiring a Community of Giving

For Dake, the impact of this gift extends far beyond campus.

"I think once they have an education - specifically a Siena education, which is really about training leaders to give back - that ties into Stewart's commitment to make all of our communities stronger," she said. "Servant leaders make our communities stronger."

That idea of leadership rooted in service is central to Siena's Franciscan mission and clearly visible in the University's graduates, many of whom go on to lead and serve throughout the Capital Region and beyond.

"I like to say the Capital Region runs on Siena talent," Dake added. "They're educating leaders who will make all of our communities stronger."

Dake hopes the gift will also serve as a catalyst for others.

"That's why we want to go public with our gift," she said. "We always want to motivate other people to give. A donation to Siena will be very well spent - we're investing in students who will make a difference."