Update January 21, 2026:
We continue to be blown away by everyone's generosity. I'm working with UAlbany on some details for the fund. They have kindly set up a link to donate directly, so I've turned off donations via GoFundMe.
Here is the link: www.albany.edu/giving/iananderson
Update January 8, 2026:
We are truly blown away by everyone's generosity. The initial goal was set to $35,000 as that is the minimum for an endowed scholarship at UAlbany. We've upped the goal -- all funds will still go towards a scholarship in Ian's honor. Thank you for helping us to honor Ian's legacy.
Obituary featured in the Albany Times Union on 1/8/26: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/timesunion-albany/name/ian-anderson-obituary?id=60473939
Ian Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund
Anyone who had the good fortune to meet Ian never forgot him, not just because he had a voice as deeply resonant as James Earl Jones, but also because he spoke with care, kindness, and humor. Ian loved to share good food, good drinks, and good conversation with friends and family. He was his happiest watching movies and shows, playing complicated board games, talking Star Wars, sharing a craft beer, belting out karaoke, and squadding up in Rainbow Six Siege with his buddies.
After graduating from Queensbury High School, Ian enrolled at SUNY Adirondack and then earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and made lifelong friends, at the University at Albany. He excelled in his academic pursuits while also making time for the other “features” of college life. Upon graduation, he devoted his career to public service, working as the Manager of Policy & Research at the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and as an Intelligence Analyst assigned to the New York State Intelligence Center-Counter Terrorism Center (CTC). He was highly respected in his field and was dedicated to his work keeping New Yorkers safe.
To honor Ian's legacy, we are establishing the Ian Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund. This fund will support students who, like Ian, are transferring from a two-year college to a four-year university. Priority will be given to those studying homeland security or counterterrorism, reflecting Ian's passion and the subjects he taught at the university. By providing scholarships through an endowed fund, we hope to ease the financial burden for these students and empower them to pursue their dreams.
Your contribution will go directly to students, helping them continue their education and make a positive impact in the world. Please join us in honoring Ian's memory by supporting future leaders who share his dedication and drive. Together, we can ensure that Ian's spirit of generosity and commitment to service lives on through the students who benefit from this scholarship.