Upstate Gala – Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in one of the Upstate Foundation's signature events – Upstate Gala. Here are some of the frequently asked questions by our guests.
What should I wear?
The 2024 Upstate Gala will be a “colorful” one. That is, it will be a party casual attire evening with a theme based on the colors of Upstate Medical University. What color(s) will you choose to wear: navy, sky blue, teal, lime green or purple?
Beneficiary
The 2024 Upstate Gala will benefit Upstate Medical University’s Department of Emergency Medicine which provides expert emergency and urgent care for more than 130,000 adult and pediatric patients annually across four emergency departments and one pediatric urgent care setting. The Department of Emergency Medicine is home to the region’s only Level 1 trauma center; is a New York State Designated SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner) site; and provides the region’s only comprehensive pediatric, hyperbaric, toxicology and burn center services. The department handles all types of medical emergencies and cares for patients transported by ground or air from throughout Central New York and beyond.
What is the advantage of being a sponsor instead of purchasing individual tickets?
As the Upstate Foundation’s premier fundraising event, the annual Gala is a significant source of revenue in support of critical needs at Upstate Medical University. There are two different types of sponsor levels. Special underwriting sponsor levels support a specific component of the Gala, while Patron sponsor levels are more general. Both offer reserved dinner seating, as well as other benefits and various levels of recognition. Individual Gala tickets offer admission to the event; Friends of the Foundation tickets offer admission to the Patron Party with reserved seating at the Gala. Click here to view sponsor opportunities.
Where will Gala be held?
The 2024 Upstate Gala will be held at the Oncenter, 800 South State St., Syracuse, NY 13202
What time does the Gala start?
The Patron Party (pre-Gala) for sponsors and Patron ticket holders begins at 7 pm, with a cocktails and hors d’oeuvres reception in Gallagher Hall at the Oncenter. At 8 pm, Hall B opens for all Gala guests.
Is food served at Gala?
There are three dinner stations with a variety of small-plate options at each station, plated and served by chefs who continually refresh the food throughout the evening. There is also a separate dessert station. It is not a formal sit-down dinner, so guests are welcome to dine, dance and mingle at their leisure.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, we work to ensure that dietary restrictions are met and understood. In addition to chefs being available at the dinner stations to answer any questions, menu items are labeled.
Is the venue accessible for my wheelchair?
Yes. The Oncenter is wheelchair accessible.
Is this a ticketed event?
Yes. Each sponsor will receive a packet containing Gala tickets and information regarding the evening. Guests purchasing individual tickets will receive the same.
Who attends Gala?
A list of corporate sponsors and Upstate Medical University departments are listed on the event's landing page. Click here to find current list of sponsors. The list is continually updated. There will also be community leaders, politicians and individual supporters of the Upstate Foundation and Upstate Medical University.
Is there parking?
Yes. Parking will be available at no charge to Gala guests in the Oncenter’s parking garage. Let the attendee know that you are attending the Upstate Gala.
Will there be dancing?
Yes, a live band will play, and dancing is encouraged for those who are interested.
Will there be speakers?
Yes, but rest assured, the Gala program is brief, maybe 10-15 minutes. While we want you to enjoy the evening with colleagues, friends and co-workers, we also want to thank you for your support of Upstate and the Gala’s beneficiary.
I can’t attend Gala. Can I still make a donation?
Absolutely! We are appreciative of any donation, as it helps reach our overall goal in support of critical needs. Click here to make a donation or call the Upstate Foundation at 315-464-4416.
Can I use my donor-advised fund (DAF) to pay for my Gala purchase?
Per IRS guidelines, DAFs cannot be used to pay for tickets or tables for fundraising events or galas. Furthermore, DAF grants cannot be used to pay the tax-deductible portion of a ticket or table if the full cost includes both a tax deductible and non-deductible portion.
You may use a DAF to make a fully tax-deductible donation in support of the Gala.
Is my purchase tax deductible?
A portion of sponsorships and ticket purchases are tax deductible. Your receipt will include tax information.
Contact information
Upstate Foundation
315-464-4416
Mailing address: 750 E. Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210
Office location: 5784 Widewaters Parkway, Syracuse, NY 13214