Blog Post
Early this year, on October 19, Nelnet Campus Commerce proudly joined the National GRACE Foundation’s Ride Against Cancer, celebrating a day of purpose and unity as participants rode together to reach and exceed the foundation’s fundraising goal. The annual event brings communities together to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer fighters pursuing their college dreams.
As a loyal sponsor of both the Ride and the Foundation’s annual Beach Party, Nelnet Campus Commerce is honored to support the GRACE Foundation’s mission to help young survivors Grow, Recover, and Achieve a College Education. Many associates have participated in these events over the years, either in person or virtually, raising funds and spreading awareness for a cause that unites hope and higher education.
“The National GRACE Foundation is deeply grateful for the steadfast partnership of Nelnet Campus Commerce,” said Anthony Gallonio, Founder and President of the Foundation and Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Services at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). “Their commitment goes far beyond financial support. Our friends at Nelnet have become true members of the GRACE family. From staff volunteering at our events to participating in our annual Ride Against Cancer, their energy, compassion, and generosity have made a tangible impact on the lives of pediatric cancer fighters pursuing their college dreams.”
“The National GRACE Foundation is deeply grateful for the steadfast partnership of Nelnet Campus Commerce. Their commitment goes far beyond financial support. Our friends at Nelnet have become true members of the GRACE family.”
– Anthony Gallonio, Founder and President, National GRACE Foundation
The connection between Nelnet Campus Commerce, the National GRACE Foundation, and the Rhode Island School of Design reflects how shared values can strengthen relationships and inspire change. RISD has been a valued client of Nelnet Campus Commerce for years, and this collaboration highlights how partnerships can grow beyond technology and services to create lasting human impact.
Several members of RISD’s Student Accounts team, including Maria Stadanlick, Director of Student Accounts, and Rachel Proulx, Associate Director of Student Accounts, are active participants in GRACE Foundation events and planning efforts. Their dedication, alongside Anthony Gallonio’s leadership, shows how the school and its partners work hand in hand to empower students and families through education and empathy.
For Nelnet Campus Commerce associates, being part of these events is more than just volunteering. It is an opportunity to connect with people whose courage and stories remind us why community matters.
“I love being able to participate in the GRACE Foundation activities,” shared Jess Motyl-Szary, Strategic Partnerships Manager at Nelnet Campus Commerce. “Everyone at the organization is so welcoming, and their passion is inspiring to watch in action. One of my favorite memories is watching Maria assemble a donut wall at the Beach Party. It was so fun and so perfectly Rhode Island. The smiles and energy at every event are contagious, and I am grateful they’ve brought us into this unique and beautiful space they’ve created.”
That same spirit of warmth and gratitude is echoed by Laurie Doyon, Manager of Account Executives at Nelnet Campus Commerce, who has also participated in the virtual version of the Ride.
“It was my absolute pleasure to be part of the GRACE Foundation Beach Party and Bike Ride over the last several years,” Laurie said. “The warmth, joy, and community spirit touched my heart deeply. What made the experience truly unforgettable was the opportunity to meet and hear the inspiring stories of the student scholarship recipients—each one a powerful reminder of the impact this foundation has on real lives.”
The partnership between the National GRACE Foundation, the Rhode Island School of Design, and Nelnet Campus Commerce demonstrates how relationships built on care and collaboration can make a difference far beyond the classroom. Supporting clients means standing beside them in their missions, believing in their causes, and celebrating the communities they serve. This year’s Ride Against Cancer was a true reflection of that spirit, bringing together riders, sponsors, and supporters to make a lasting difference.
“Everyone at the organization is so welcoming, and their passion is inspiring to watch in action. The smiles and energy at every event are contagious, and I am grateful they’ve brought us into this unique and beautiful space they’ve created.”
– Jess Motyl-Szary, Strategic Partnerships Manager, Nelnet Campus Commerce
About the National GRACE Foundation
The National GRACE Foundation provides free college admissions and financial aid counseling to pediatric cancer fighters and survivors, helping them achieve their educational dreams while recovering from their journeys. Founded in Rhode Island, GRACE stands for Grow, Recover, and Achieve a College Education. Today, its impact reaches across the country through events, scholarships, and partnerships that bring hope and opportunity to families everywhere.
Learn more or support their mission at graceamerica.org.
Author: Nelnet Campus Commerce
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