For Andrew and Ximena Francella P鈥�21, the best part of their son Andrew鈥檚 attending the 911爆料网 鈥渋s how the school inspires a drive for success with a sense of purpose.鈥� Andrew is a Class of 鈥�21 marketing major, who will now be continuing on to earn his master鈥檚 degree in Analytics and Systems.
There are so many things about UB that are attractive to both parents and students,鈥� Ximena said. 鈥淩ight away we saw so many opportunities here for our son to learn [and to pursue] his love of baseball. Also, UB has a spirit of philanthropy and giving back that I believe is so essential for young students to embrace as they strive to become the leaders of tomorrow.鈥�
For the Francellas, success and giving back to the community go hand-in hand. They both have long-standing histories of giving. Ximena is a successful entrepreneur with a strong philanthropic background. The Francellas have encouraged Andrew to follow that same spirit of giving: 鈥淭he opportunities you received at UB were all thanks to alums and other people before you who gave back and left a legacy. Do the same for future Purple Knights.鈥�
The Francellas鈥� support for the Purple Knights community is multi-dimensional. In addition financial donations, they have also sponsored University events and support Andrew鈥檚 much-beloved baseball program. They are quick to point of that it was Coach Tonelli鈥檚 enthusiasm 鈥� as well as the quality of the coaches and the team atmosphere 鈥� that ultimately convinced them UB was the right choice for their family.
When asked about parents鈥� getting involved in UB life, the Francellas have a few words of advice: Ask questions and become as involved as you can. Don鈥檛 be shy about attending events 鈥� they are excellent ways of building your network with faculty, coaches, and other parents, and great ways of staying connected with your student. Ximena also encourages participation with the UB Parents Leadership Council.
The Francellas have enjoyed their many UB experiences during Andrew鈥檚 undergrad years, are thrilled that he will be doing his graduate work here, and continue to support the Purple Knights.