Bob Confer ’96 was drawn to Brockport for its small-town feel, proximity to home, and reasonable costs. “Affordability made Brockport a great selling point,” he said. “Especially because I could graduate in three years through the Delta College program and get out into the workforce.”
After earning his degree, Confer joined his family’s company, Confer Plastics, Inc., in North Tonawanda, New York—a third-generation, family-owned manufacturer that employs 150 people and proudly produces all its products in the USA. Today, he serves as president.
Jack Gawrys (left), Dean Michael Doyle (center), and Bob Confer (right)
As a business leader, Confer understands Brockport’s role in shaping the regional economy. “Brockport plays a significant role in creating world-class workers that can help New York State grow,” he said.
His education continues to guide him through challenges. “My experience at Brockport was incredibly beneficial to surviving crises at my business,” said Confer. “We’ve had multiple recessions, including the Great Recession, the pandemic, and the constant threat from overseas competitors. What I learned at Brockport has allowed me and my team to weather those storms and many more.”
Confer’s gratitude for Brockport has inspired a legacy of giving.
Confer Plastics Team Room Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
“Giving back to the organizations that provided me so much is important to me,” he said. “I hope Brockport continues on the path of greatness it’s been on, creating a really great educational experience for students.”
Most recently, Confer made a multiyear pledge of $100,000 to the Golden Eagle Opportunity Fund, which provides critical aid to students facing emergencies.
“To me, the fund feeds into the American dream,” he said. “Students go to college with their own dreams. Certain circumstances happen in life that can cause those dreams to be shattered, and we don’t want that. I give so students can weather the worst days of their lives and not have their American dream become a nightmare.”
In addition to supporting emergency funding, Confer has made a lasting mark on campus through the Confer Plastics Team Room for Men’s Ice Hockey, the Confer Plastics Scholarship, and support for Brockport’s annual Day of Giving.
Confer sees his philanthropy as an investment in the future. “I look at funding scholarships as being an investment by my company in tomorrow,” he said. “Young people, they are tomorrow. I want to make sure our future is in the best hands possible.”