Deborah Rosenbaum, B.S.’81

Taking Time to Give Back

By Jim Sciancalepore, M.A.’93

hile a student at UAlbany, Deborah Rosenbaum was hungry for additional experiences that could enrich her education. Her experiences included an internship in a senator’s office, student teaching and independent study – all while earning her degree in business administration.

This hunger continues today.

In July of 2012, she took a six-month leave from her job as an account manager in graphic-arts solutions for Xerox to volunteer her talents to the Syracuse chapter of Say Yes To Education, a nonprofit education foundation designed to increase high-school and college graduation rates for urban youth. During this time, she helped Say Yes cultivate new relationships in the Syracuse business community. Her efforts will not only enhance fundraising for the organization, but will also help attract mentors and create internship and job opportunities for youths in the Say Yes program.

“It’s such an important organization,” explained Rosenbaum, when asked why she chose to volunteer full time for Say Yes. “I believe that education is the key to ending the cycle of poverty.” The best part: Her leave was not only approved and encouraged by Xerox – it was paid in full through the company’s Social Service Leave program. Through a rigorous application process, Rosenbaum was one of only 11 Xerox employees nationwide selected to take part in this program last year.

“It’s such a unique program; I was very fortunate to be part of it,” said the mother of four and native of Manlius, N.Y. “Xerox is truly committed to fostering stronger communities.” Even though her full-time stint is over, Rosenbaum remains active in the Say Yes organization. She also maintains strong ties to the UAlbany community … from annual trips with close alumni friends to occasional trips back to campus. Rosenbaum credits UAlbany with providing a foundation for her well-rounded life and career.

“I got a great education and opportunities for great experiences,” Rosenbaum noted. “Life is about experiences.”