When senior Alex Erb enrolled in Cooper Union’s civil engineering program in 2008, his Manhattan-based parents were excited that their son was admitted to such a prestigious program that also happened to be close to home.

Rhonda and Stephen Erb live only a few dozen blocks uptown from Cooper Union’s campus. Since the very beginning of Alex’s studies at Cooper, the couple has been actively involved in raising money for the school. Every year the two volunteer to fundraise together through Cooper’s annual Phonathon. They make time to call other Cooper parents and ask that they support and donate to the historic institution that continues to graduate leading innovators in architecture, art, and engineering.

Rhonda Erb, who works from home as a writer and editor, says she enjoys getting involved immensely. “My husband works as a Vice President at an investment bank, so he has a lot less time. We make time to work together on this though,” she explains. Rhonda does most of the talking while Stephen helps with dialing and other logistics.

The Phonathon helps the Erbs take part in what they describe as an intimate community of Cooper parents and supporters. It also allows them to get a little insight into the institution where their son Alex studies and to catch a glimpse of his learning environment.

Rhonda says she would encourage other parents and alumni to get involved in the Phonathon, describing it as a fun and supportive way to stay involved in her son’s community.

To learn more about the Phonathon or to get involved please contact Joseph McDonald at jmcdonal@cooper.edu.