Established in 1977 as the Harpur Forum, the Binghamton University Forum is a membership organization devoted to strengthening bonds between Binghamton University and the Greater Binghamton community. The Forum serves business, professional and community leaders in the region through its Community Forum Breakfast Speakers’ Program, featuring nationally known authorities and Binghamton University faculty speaking on timely topics during the academic year.
The Binghamton University Forum opens doors and allows individuals the opportunity to know the University on a personal basis, while also promoting community relations. It has been very successful in developing a mutually beneficial relationship between Binghamton University and the community it serves.
The Binghamton University Foundation established the Binghamton University Forum (formerly the Harpur Forum) to promote community relations and encourage private support of the University. As state funding has decreased, it has become important to develop stronger links between the University and community leaders. The first membership drive began in May 1977 with a goal of enrolling 100 members from the ranks of area business leaders. Today, membership is by invitation only, and each prospective member must be recommended by a member in good standing. Annual dues support program expenses.
The Binghamton Forum has developed a remarkably helpful exchange of resources between the University and the surrounding community. This ranges from fostering new University programs aimed at stimulating the local economy to sponsoring arts programs to enrich this part of the state. The Binghamton Forum’s dynamic partnership between Binghamton University and the community has had a dramatic impact in the Greater Binghamton region.
A most important Binghamton Forum service to business, professional and community leaders is its Distinguished Speaker Series, whereby members are brought into personal contact with well-known public figures. Campus visits are also encouraged through special events in collaboration with the Anderson Center and Music and Theatre departments. Through its many activities involving the community, the Binghamton Forum has increased awareness of and interest in Binghamton University. The result is mutually beneficial, creating a talent pool from which both the University and community can draw resources.
Binghamton Forum members have been involved in, or directly responsible for, program development at Binghamton University, including:
These programs, products of cooperation between Binghamton Forum members and University faculty and administrators, have created a successful working relationship between the Greater Binghamton community and the University.
Annual membership fees cover the cost of Binghamton University Forum activities over the course of the year, which include:
For more information, contact Elena Backlund at 607-777-4390.
