Foundation 2023 Update
As we look back on the Foundation’s 70th year, we again have reason to celebrate. Since 1953, the Foundation – formerly known as the Student Aid Association (SAA) – has provided more than $35 million in student and other program support at SUNY Broome.
The organization’s priority has always been financially supporting students to access high-quality public education through our merit scholarship and need-based grants-in-aid programs. This past year, we provided nearly $1.6 million to SUNY Broome students, the most funding in a given year ever. The Foundation had revenues of more than $6 million this past year – and nearly 1/3 of that was immediately reinvested in our students.
Our annual report below shows some of the examples of what SUNY Broome students and campus have been able to achieve. The impact of the philanthropic support that we receive from our donors, alumni, current and retired faculty and staff, community friends, foundations, and corporations is the only way it has been possible to do so much good work here.
The support given throughout the year may be from a first-time donor, a former student, a community friend, or a foundation. These individuals and entities share the same mission – to create an opportunity for all SUNY Broome students to succeed without incurring significant debt. Whether it is in the form of a recent graduate’s first donation, the realization of an alumnus’ planned estate gift, the creation of an endowed scholarship, a gift made in response to our annual appeal, or as the result of the fundraising activities of our Student Philanthropy team – all contributions matter. As a result, this support collectively makes it possible for students to achieve the skill set and credentials to pursue a career or transfer to a higher level of learning.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Foundation and Alumni office and the entire campus, we would like to offer our sincerest thanks for the support we receive from all of you. Your continued generosity helps invest in our greatest asset’s future – our students!
Richard J. Allman
President, SUNY Broome Foundation
Cathy Abashian Williams
Executive Director, SUNY Broome Foundation
Financial Overview
In 2022-2023 the Foundation provided SUNY Broome with $1,879,130 in total support.
![Student Support: $1,548,592; Campus Activities: $27,303; Department and Program Expenses: $249,392; Faculty Development: $53,843.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Financial-Overview.jpg)
![Giving by Constituency: 3% Friends; 3% Foundations; 5% Faculty & Staff; 12% Corporations and Organizations; 13% Alumni; 64% Estates & Trusts; Total Number of Donors: 1,384.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2021/10/Foundation-Annual-Report-GivingbyConstituency.jpg)
![Revenue: $4,247,092 - Investment Income; $2,300,295 - Donations (Total Public Support); $10,580 - Other Income; Total Revenue: $6,557,967](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2021/10/Foundation-Annual-Report-Revenue.jpg)
![Net Assets: $42,410,623 - Market Value as of 6/30/22 (Audited); $3,727,548 - Increase in Net Assets FY23; $46,138,171 - Market Value as of 6/30/23 (Unaudited).](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2021/10/Foundation-Annual-Report-Net-Assets.jpg)
Note:
This financial information represents both audited and unaudited results.
Giving Impact Stories
2024 – Five New Scholarships
2024 Student Awards Recognition Reception:
Honoring loved ones & helping the next generation of Hornets
![Foundation Scholarship Reception 2024](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53710297173_7a92ba87fa_h.jpg)
On May 8, 2024, at the SUNY Broome Ice Center, students wearing sticker name badges and holding programs listing over 350 scholarship recipients awaited their turn to meet — and be photographed with — the donors who helped them afford their college education. As students and donors finished shaking hands, the college president, staff, and faculty finalized preparations for the 2024 Student Awards Recognition Reception, set to unfold before an audience of over 500 people.
Continuing, graduating, and transferring students receive certificates and congratulations at the scholarship ceremony. Incoming students are recognized at their high school ceremonies. These scholarships award a range of amounts from $200 to the multi-year full-tuition coverage of the Presidential Honors Scholarship, with the average scholarship worth $500. The Foundation awarded over $1,600,000 in student support in 2023 and is on track to exceed that amount this year.
“There’s around 30 Calice scholarships now so that large legacy gift from Emil Calice remains transformational,” Amy Englehart, the SUNY Broome Foundation staff member who coordinates the scholarship application process and the recognition reception, admitted as she stood behind the name badge table. “And,” she remarked, “we are very fortunate that brand-new scholarships are established every year.”
Donors began five new scholarships in 2024.
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-3](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53709172857_211e5fb1c7_m.jpg)
The Otego Family Dental Scholarship, created for a full-time continuing dental hygiene student pursuing higher education later in life, was awarded for the first time. The recipient, Tara Sears, told her donors, “I am the oldest person in my program but my fellow students have embraced me and I enjoy being able to provide some insight from my variety of life experience. As a former restaurateur, I love cooking for people and providing a great dining experience, but I’m looking forward to starting a new career that is centered around helping people improve their health. Thank you again for helping make that possible for me!”
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-113](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53709172917_9661325abb_h.jpg)
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-24](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53710520445_3b9108361f_m.jpg)
Wayne C. Mitteer RN, MS Scholarship for the Advancement of Men in Nursing awarded two students, Nathaniel Allen and Joshua May. Wayne Mitteer (RN ’75) established the scholarship to aid continuing male nursing students.
Nathaniel told his donor his scholarship would “make this upcoming semester financially easier, and will allow me to focus on my education.” Joshua added, “The positive effect that scholarship opportunities like yours have on students like me is difficult to put into words, and saying “thank you” doesn’t seem enough.” Joshua plans to become a nurse — possibly in critical care settings — and intends to use the money he’s been awarded for required computer programs and textbooks in the nursing program.
![](http://news.sunybroome.edu/buzz/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/Aleen-Ameen-Straightented-and-Crop.jpg)
Another new scholarship, the Aleen Ameen Memorial Award for Excellence in Nursing, began as a way to honor Aleen Ameen, who passed away in a motor vehicle accident on Jan. 16, 2024. The SUNY Broome nursing student tutored her peers in anatomy and physiology around her classwork and a part-time job on Binghamton General’s psych floor. Like many of the College’s generous donors, her family and friends rallied to bring good out of the tragedy and to keep her memory alive. The donors crafted the scholarship for a full-time continuing nursing major and set a preference for students interested in psychiatric nursing.
![05-08-2024 Scholarship Reception Aleen Ameen's Family-2](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53719281323_e5059e6557_m.jpg)
Danielle Tavares has the honor of being the scholarship’s first awardee. She thanked her donors and shared the inspiration behind her goal to be an intensive care unit or labor and delivery nurse. “My nephew was born at 26 weeks. During a scary and uncertain time, it was the incredible nurses who took care of him and gave my family much-needed support and compassion. He is a happy and healthy 2-year-old now, and…I can only hope to make such a difference in the world [as the nursing staff did], and that is what I am striving to achieve every day.”
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-1](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53710296188_92d5a78a17_h.jpg)
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-58](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53710084871_6b7d55d61c_z.jpg)
The Diann Benowski DiFrancesco Sunshine Scholarship was also created in honor of a loved one. Diann Benowski DiFrancesco (LA ‘85) was a passionate athlete who played volleyball and basketball at SUNY Broome and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Nursing Home Administration. The creators of the scholarship added the word “sunshine” to the title to remember how Diann always looked on the bright side of things, even on dark days, and how she lovingly cared for others. This scholarship is for health studies, nursing, human services, or sport studies majors, with a preference for first-generation students with plans to earn a bachelor’s degree.
The first recipients are Chantell Cornett and Brooke Reynolds. As a single mom, Chantell works full-time and attends college, and tries to set a good example for her three children. “Thank you so much for selecting me for this award,” she said to her donors, adding, “I work hard every day to show my children, and those who are coming up behind me, the importance of doing whatever it takes to succeed.” Brooke, who has been working in the Air National Guard as a dental assistant, graduated from the nursing program this May. She plans to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. She notes, “I am thankful for this award! I will be putting the money towards furthering my education.”
![Foundation-Scholaship-Reception-2024-(Digital)-60](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53710519280_d0abed348e_z.jpg)
The daughters of Reeta Hayes established the Reeta Hayes Memorial Scholarship to honor their mother. They recall her love of athletics (particularly tennis) and tenure as women’s tennis coach. The scholarship awardee may be in any major but must currently play on a SUNY Broome women’s team.
Sydney Velez Mattiace earned the scholarship this year. As Sydney prepares to transfer to Binghamton University, she says “the aid I am getting through scholarships is a huge comfort. [My donors] have given me an opportunity to further my education at a lesser cost and I am extremely appreciative.” She plans to become a mechanical engineering major at BU and “dreams of working in the clean energy field in an effort to help our planet.”
The College is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our Hornets. If you are interested in establishing a scholarship, contact the SUNY Broome Foundation. If you are a student looking for scholarship information, visit the scholarship website.
2024 – Record number of Peer Scholarship Winners
Record number of Peer Scholarship Winners in 2023-2024
![Two Peer Scholarship Winners 2024 at the Student Awards Reception event](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/Peer-Scholarship-Winners-in-2023-2024.jpg)
We are able to provide scholarships to students each year because of the hard work of the Student Philanthropy Council (SPC) members and Presidential Honors Scholarship (PHS) volunteers during the academic year. This year, they raised $1,573.38. Because the fund has been growing each year we were able to award a record five Student Giving Peer to Peer Scholarships!
![Channarong Campbell holds up a thank you sign](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/ChannarongCampbell.jpg)
The five 2024-2025 scholarship recipients were Channarong Campbell, Stephanie Dornblaser, Colby Graef, Matthew Larson, and Caitlin O’Reilly. Each scholarship provided $500 toward tuition, books, or other expenses for these Hornets.
Channarong Campbell, who grew up in Thailand, lost his parents at a young age and worked hard at odd jobs to finish school. Now a SUNY Broome student, he says, “Thank you so much for providing a scholarship to help students. These funds are a great help to allow students to attend class, learn and improve their lives.”
![Stephanie Dornblaser at the Student Awards Reception event](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/Scholarship-2024-Website-Sized-Images_dornblaser.jpg)
Stephanie Dornblaser, a first-year nursing major, plans to choose pediatrics as her specialty after graduation. She notes, “I feel a passion like no other towards nursing, and I’m so honored to be able to touch the lives of others in ways both big and small.” She thanks the donors “for affording me the financial stability necessary for me to focus more of my attention on my schooling.”
![Colby Graef holds up a laptop screen that reads thank you](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/Graef-Colby.jpg)
Colby Graef told his donors, “This scholarship serves as a validation of my hard work and dedication, affirming that my efforts have not gone unnoticed. I am truly grateful for your kindness and support, and I am committed to making the most of this opportunity.”
![Matt Larson holds up a thank you sign.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/Matt-Larson_web.jpg)
Matthew Larson, who is pursuing his EMT certification and possibly a future career as a certified anesthesiologist assistant or a physician, wrote to his supporters, “The financial burden of pursuing my education and obtaining essential medical instruments has been a financial challenge for me. This scholarship not only relieves me of this burden but also enables me to access crucial tools that are indispensable in my journey toward studying and becoming a healthcare professional.”
Caitlin O’Reilly, a mom of two, keeps busy tutoring her peers at SUNY Broome and volunteering as a coach for young girls in the community. She says, “Nursing allows me to continue my passion of serving others and showing compassion through the care I provide to my future patients and coworkers. A sincere thank you for choosing me as a 2024 recipient of The SUNY Broome Student Giving Peer Scholarship.”
![Volunteers running the Basket Raffle table at Alumni Reunion 2024](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/05/ce165ef1-b6e7-4669-a9c1-02855a418d3a.jpg)
The student volunteers fundraised through bake sales, basket raffles, and fundraisers at local restaurants. “It probably doesn’t seem like a big deal that you came out to a bake sale and picked up goodies for you and your friends or gave a few dollars towards an opportunity to win a raffle-basket. However, the little things really do add up quickly. We have a great caring community that shows up for the efforts of our student volunteers and for the financial needs of students,” said Lisa Schappert, SUNY Broome Foundation Senior Director of Development & Alumni Relations.
Dr. Tony D. Hawkins accepted the proceeds in a ceremonial check during the graduation ceremony on May 23, 2024. The SPC hopes to be able to assist more of their fellow students in 2024-2025, depending on the amount raised in the next academic year.
2024 – Frank G. Paul Medal of Excellence in Math and Science
SUNY Broome recognizes Frank G. Paul Medal of Excellence in Math and Science recipients
![Frank G. Paul Medal Reception 2024](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53722277707_199baac8e9_h.jpg)
On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, high schoolers with exceptional abilities in math and science were awarded the prestigious Frank G. Paul Medal of Excellence in Math and Science. SUNY Broome President Dr. Tony D. Hawkins, Interim Dean of STEM Dr. Christine Martey-Ochola, and the daughter of Francis and Lillian Paul, Rebecca Komorowski (RN ‘76), hung the heavy gold-colored medals around the young students’ necks, handed out certificates and posed with the recipients for the photographer.
View photos of the award ceremony.
![Interim Dean of STEM Dr. Christine Martey-Ochola speaks to the room of medal recipients and their family and friends](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53723613920_3e60578518_3k.jpg)
The top-scoring male and female students in math and science from area high schools — or “the best the region has to offer when it comes to math and science” — listened as Dr. Hawkins encouraged them to “become ambassadors and champions for science, technology, and critical thinking.” He added, “The astrophysicist Carl Sagan once observed, ‘We live in a society exquisitely dependent on science and technology, in which hardly anyone knows anything about science and technology.’ If we want to walk boldly into the future, this needs to change – and you are the ones who will change it.”
Following Dr. Hawkins’ remarks, Dr. Martey-Ochola spoke briefly, noting, “Since the inception of this program in 1999, the Foundation has awarded just over 750 medals to the area’s highest achieving high school seniors. This recognition helps to showcase the talent of our local students with exemplary math and science abilities.”
![Grace Frost receives her Frank G. Paul scholarship](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53723179366_a6ecdb3b30_3k.jpg)
This year, 36 high school students were honored. The recognition includes a medal and a cash award for the top-scoring male and female students in math and science from area schools. Additionally, medal recipients planning to attend SUNY Broome are considered for the Francis and Lillian Paul Scholarship for SUNY Broome’s STEM majors. The merit scholarships are worth $1,000 per year at SUNY Broome, and recipients may also be eligible for a $1,000 transfer scholarship to complete their bachelor’s degree if the criteria are met. This year’s scholarship recipients are Grace Frost, Benjamin Jobmann, Jacob Quail, and Tyler Williams.
The program is made possible with generous financial support from Frank and Lillian Paul and their family. The Medal of Excellence’s namesake, Frank G. Paul, spent over four decades as an IBM engineer and believed in math, science, and education. He also served as a SUNY Broome trustee and president of the Foundation, which provides scholarships to many students.
![Rebecca Komorowski speaks at the 2024 Frank G. Paul Reception](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53722278002_8c22c995cb_3k.jpg)
During the ceremony, Rebecca Komorowski recalled her father’s intelligence and dedication to accessible education. “Dad really, really believed in higher education. He was a huge believer in education for anyone and everyone, even those without the ability to afford it,” she said.
Rebecca, who became a nurse instead of directly following her father’s footsteps, noted she has spoken at this event for 25 years. “So I’m going to borrow from a speech my daughter, a nursing major, put together. She found these points from a graduation speech from Oprah Winfrey.” Rebecca quickly outlined three points — Knowing who you are; You must find a way to serve; Always do the right thing. She added that she agreed with Winfrey that while the memory of famous people will eventually fade, “if you give great service to people, you will be remembered. I have found that to be true in my nursing career and volunteer work.” Finally, she asked the students to wear their medals during their high school commencement ceremonies. “Wear it for your graduation and be proud because… you have done excellently in math and science and you are proving what excellence is,” Rebecca encouraged with a big grin.
![Frank G. Paul recipients wear their medals as they stand with Dr. Hawkins and Rebecca Komorowski](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53722277642_7c8f07fb7a_3k.jpg)
This year’s medal recipients, listed by high school, are:
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- Afton High School: Ryan Dawson & Rylee Noone
- Binghamton High School: Jackson Nguyen & Hannah Vy
- Chenango Forks High School: Michael Rullo & Gabriella Dietzman
- Chenango Valley High School: James Stento & Grace Frost
- Deposit High School: Abigail Russell
- Greene High School: Austin deHaan & Tatianna Wells
- Harpursville High School: Jacob Wolbert & Aliyah Campbell
- Johnson City High School: Robert Kroplewski & Delaney Gaughan
- Maine-Endwell High School: Salvatore Caforio & Madison Cartie
- Newark Valley High School: Daniel Pirger & Mikayla Lawrence
- Owego Free Academy: Chris Porter & Emma Hooker
- Ross Corners Christian Academy: Matthew Outman
- Seton Catholic Central: Brody Howard & Gabrielle Brocious
- Susquehanna Valley High School: Zackary Merrin & Syria Frank
- Tioga Central High School: Tyler Roe & Sadie Parker
- Union-Endicott High School: Benjamin Jobmann & Serenity Pearson
- Vestal High School: Tyler Williams & Michelle Secord
- Whitney Point High School: Jacob Quail & Elizabeth Czebiniak
- Windsor High School: Nicholas Pisano & Sophia Chen
Congratulations to all of our recipients!
If you would like to learn more about SUNY Broome scholarships or how to create a legacy of generosity to assist SUNY Broome students, please get in touch with the Foundation.
2023 – Peer Scholarships Doubled
Peer Scholarships Doubled
During the last academic year, Student Philanthropy Council (SPC) members and Presidential Honors Scholarship (PHS) students raised a record amount of scholarship money for their peers.
With campus support, the council and volunteers raised $2,027.73 (double last year’s total) through the Student Giving Campaign. This was enough to fund four $500 scholarships. Staci Gregory, Yuliia Onikiienko, Waylon Partridge, and Tammy Poku were the recipients of the Student Giving Peer Scholarship this year.
The council and volunteers fundraised through bake sales, basket raffles, fundraisers at local restaurants, and a bingo event. “We are so grateful to everyone in our campus community that bought a donut, donated cookies, ordered a burger at a restaurant fundraiser, or participated in a drawing for a basket or prize. We couldn’t have done it without our students and friends on campus,” said SUNY Broome Foundation Alumni & Development Associate Jamie Manchester, the council’s advisor.
SPC member and PHS recipient Isabelle Dithrich presented the proceeds in a ceremonial check to Dr. Drumm at the graduation ceremony on May 18, 2023. The council hopes to earn a similar amount in the next academic year to assist another four students in 2024-2025.
2023 – Dedicating Edwin C. Daub Field
Dedicating Edwin C. Daub Field
SUNY Broome renames Hornet Field in memory of a beloved professor emeritus & coach
![Daub family views the new scoreboard](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52919995313_ceb3ee075b_k.jpg)
On April 29, 2023, a crowd of alumni, college employees, current and past SUNY Broome baseball players, and friends of the Daub family, huddled beneath a tent pitched on the outskirts of the College’s baseball field. The blustery weather did not deter the group from gathering to rename and dedicate the Hornet Baseball Field in honor of Professor Emeritus and Coach Edwin C. Daub.
For Mini Daub, the chilly day conjured up many memories of sitting in countless baseball stands, covered in blankets to brace against the weather, to support her husband as he coached. (Sometimes being the only spectator in the stands.) The family recalled that his love for the sport was so strong that they often teased that his family took second place in his heart.
Reverend Joe Hein (LA ’76), who played on the 1976 baseball team, remembered Coach Daub as a master motivator who had an incredible knack for developing a student’s path in life.
During the ceremony, Director of Athletics Colleen Cashman (BA’ 85) read the SUNY Broome’s Board of Trustees’ resolution to rename the college’s baseball field to Edwin C. Daub Field. In the resolution, the trustees listed many reasons for the honor. Some reasons included: Daub’s 59-year long tenure, the exceptional quality of his instruction, his mentoring of less experienced faculty members, his NJCAA Region III baseball championships, his level-headed ability to problem solve, and his coaching of the college’s first tennis and varsity soccer teams in 1963.
Cashman also recounted that, “I was only able to interact with Ed a couple of times when I started [working] here…[but] I was able to see the love and passion he had for teaching here at the college, and how much it meant to him to be a part of developing a student’s path of life.” As a longtime Cincinnati Reds fan, she was also excited that Daub had scouted for the team. Cashman said, talking to him about the Reds “was definitely one of the coolest things about starting my job here.”
Stephanie Daub-Kuzio (CT’ 83) shared that her father would truly be honored by this dedication and would be humbled to know that his great spirit and passion for physical education and athletics at SUNY Broome were both noticed and appreciated.
Heather Hoffman, Assistant Professor and Chair of Physical Education and Sport Studies, spoke with an evident fondness for her older colleague, noting, “What stood out the most was his passion for teaching and coaching.” Telling a story of finding a handout titled “Thoughts for Your Journey” from one of Daub’s classes, she shared one that seems particularly relevant, “our true legacy will not be in your accomplishments or possessions but rather in the wisdom you share and pass on to others.”
The dedication ceremony wrapped with the Daub family viewing the newly updated scoreboard. The Daub family, who now live in Maine and New Mexico, also established a scholarship fund in his memory for students at SUNY Broome who intend to transfer to SUNY Cortland and pursue a career in teaching and physical education. Through these two efforts, the college hopes that the story of the dedicated long-term coach and professor will live on in the memory of our campus.
2023 – SUNY Broome and Universidad de Celaya Cultural Exchange
Celebrating Storytelling and Heritage
SUNY Broome and Universidad de Celaya students explore each other’s cultures to create storytelling exhibit
The Gallery @ SUNY Broome was overflowing with faculty, staff, students, and friends of the College on June 8, 2023, in honor of the debut of the Storytelling and Heritage exhibit, curated collaboratively by a group of anthropology students from SUNY Broome and the Universidad de Celaya, Mexico. The exhibit showcased a collection of photographs, interviews, and artistic pieces depicting Mexican and American cultures. The event resulted from the overwhelming success of Anthropology 288: Storytelling and Heritage, an invitation-only travel course designed to highlight the power of storytelling and its ability to bridge cultural gaps.
“A few of the SUNY Broome students who participated in the course had previously never left the country, so the impact of this type of international, experiential learning was even more significant. Courses like ANT 288 truly enrich our students’ lives,” said Professor Kathleen McKenna.
![Mexican and American college students bonding](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2023/09/Celaya.jpg)
The course, taught by adjunct instructor Lynda A. Carroll, began with weekly Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) discussions via Zoom. While initially, the weekly Zoom classes were admittedly a bit awkward for students on both sides, the awkwardness dissolved the moment that they gathered collectively in Querétaro, Mexico, in March 2023. While in Mexico, SUNY Broome and Universidad de Celaya students spent their days immersed in Mexican culture through travel to historical and natural sites such as la Peña de Bernal and the Museo Regional de Querétaro. They also attended workshops, interviews, and cultural performances. The SUNY Broome cohort left Mexico with seven new, lifelong friends and the desire to return the hospitality by serving as the ultimate American ambassadors for their counterparts in June.
In America, the students explored Broome County’s cultural highlights, such as the carousels, the Discovery Center’s Story Garden, the Phelps and Kilmer Mansions, and an introduction to the delicacy of the “spiedie.” Then, the semester-long intercultural exchange culminated in the display in the gallery.
![Mexican candy and photos of a pinata](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2023/09/celayapinata.jpg)
The program was primarily funded by outside sources such as 100,000 Strong in the Americas, the Mary Street Jenkins Foundation, and Universidad de Celaya. However, two SUNY Broome Foundation funds, designated to increase innovation among faculty members and enhance student academic opportunities, also assisted. These two funds, The Harold Sunshine Fund for Cross Disciplinary Collaboration — created in memory of Professor Emeritus Harold Sunshine — and the Dr. Richard and Ellen Romano International Education Endowment Fund, were established in honor of dedicated SUNY Broome employees. Read the longer version of this story in the Buzz.
2023 – Six New Scholarships
2023 Student Awards Recognition Reception:
Celebrating students and donors and six new scholarships
On May 9, 2023, over 600 people gathered in a sea of folding chairs inside SUNY Broome’s Ice Center. Students, friends, family, scholarship donors, professors, and college employees attended the Student Awards Recognition Reception to recognize the academic efforts of scholarship winners and the philanthropy of the countless donors who make it all possible.
![Nicholas Mugglin holds up a thank you sign](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2023/07/Nicholas-Mugglin.jpg)
This year, over 420 scholarships were given to help incoming, continuing, graduating, and transferring students afford their college education. These scholarships award a range of amounts from $200 to the multi-year full-tuition coverage of the Presidential Honors Scholarship. The average scholarship is worth $500.
In 2023, the Foundation had six brand-new scholarships.
The Edwin C. Daub Memorial Scholarship was created by his family in memory of Professor Emeritus Daub, who dedicated 59 years to teaching and coaching at the college. This scholarship is for a student who will also transfer to SUNY Cortland and seems to be on a path similar to Professor Daub’s career, one of teaching or physical education. Nicholas Mugglin, this year’s scholarship winner, told his donors, “With help from my SUNY Broome professors, I have been able to volunteer for Intramural Sports, assist members in my community at the Lourdes Fitness Center, and kickstart my coaching career with the Chenango Forks Varsity Football team! Your generous donation for Coach Daub’s scholarship will allow me to be financially free enough to continue my path of volunteering and coaching into my years in Cortland! Go Hornets!”
![Hannah Oleary with Associate Professor Leigh Martindale, Chairperson for Criminal Justice & Emergency Services](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52892039064_4a27026b3a_w.jpg)
The Nirchi family also started scholarships in memory of their loved ones: Rocco Nirchi, owner of the Nirchi’s Pizza franchises, and his sons Michael and Thomas.
Nirchi’s Pizza Memorial Scholarship for Paramedics recipient was Hannah Oleary. She thanked her donors, saying, “My end goal is to be a flight medic as well as a volunteer firefighter. This award gives me the motivation to not give up on what I have been dreaming of becoming.”
![Kelsey Coe with Chairperson of Hospitality Programs, Professor Maria Montemagno](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52891873566_56b99f5a4e_w.jpg)
Nirchi’s Pizza Memorial Scholarship for a Culinary Student recipient, Kelsey Coe, said, “I appreciate your consideration for this award. It means a lot to me. I grew up with little money, so getting this opportunity even to be a candidate means a lot.”
The new Broome County Association of Towns & Villages Scholarship is designed for local students in the Criminal Justice or Homeland Security majors. When the scholarship was awarded, Mike Marinaccio, the Supervisor of the Town of Dickinson, spoke on behalf of the Broome County Association of Towns & Villages. “Domenico Emilio’s work and plans to become a NY State Trooper more than meets the criteria our Association has set to qualify for this scholarship. Congratulations Domenico and we wish you the very best success in all your future endeavors.”
![Kendal Valenti poses for a photo with donors, Edith Lianexay and Shane Woollett](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52891301977_6c106faa83_w.jpg)
The Christopher & Marjorie Keibel Memorial Scholarship, established by their family, focuses on helping a continuing nursing student who has worked or volunteered in hospice. Kendal Valenti, the scholarship winner, remarked, “Scholarships such as this one are important to me because they allow me to continue pursuing my academic and career goals without the added financial burden that often comes with higher education. After graduation, I am hoping to begin my career as a psychiatric nurse at Binghamton General Hospital.”
![Jenny Comency and Carly Forbes with their donors](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52892330013_5a188f05ee_w.jpg)
The final brand-new scholarship, given by the Sohn Family, is in memory of Young H. Sohn, who they remember as a “wonderful son, brother, husband, and father who left us all too soon.” Through her kindness and compassion during Young’s final hours, ICU nurse Ellen Paffie Gross (RN ’13) unintentionally inspired the family to donate to a SUNY Broome nursing student in honor of both Young and Ellen. The Young H. Sohn Memorial Scholarship assisted two students in 2023, Jenny Comency and Carly Forbes.
![Jenny Comency, Carly Forbes and Kendal Valenti at the scholarship reception]( https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52892331503_89eeb561e7_w.jpg )
Jenny notes, “I work part-time at UHS Wilson Memorial Hospital and volunteer for Special Olympics weekly. This scholarship allows me to work fewer hours and focus on my studies and additional educational opportunities.” Carly told her donors, “I am deeply touched by your kindness. I became a mother at a young age, and I’m so excited to be able to set an example for him that hard work pays off. This scholarship allows me to work fewer hours so that I can focus on my education and my son.”
You can find more student stories on the 2023 Scholarship website, plus the entire list of recognized students. The college is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our Hornets.
If you are interested in establishing a scholarship, contact the SUNY Broome Foundation. If you are a student looking for scholarship information, visit the scholarship website.
2022 – Dr. Francis Battisti Reflection Area Dedication Ceremony
SUNY Broome Celebrates the Dedication of the Dr. Francis Battisti Reflection Area
![The Dr. Battisti Pergola on a bright sunny day.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/10/IMG_20220819_142513625_HDR-300x300.jpg)
Past and present faculty, staff, administration gathered on campus on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. to attend the dedication ceremony of the Dr. Battisti Student Reflection Area. This tranquil, outdoor space, which was designed for members of the campus community to use as a spot to rest, converse, and reflect, is situated between the Natural Science Center and the Calice Advanced Manufacturing Center. The pergola and surrounding area are named in honor of Dr. Francis L. Battisti and his unfailing devotion to SUNY Broome, which lovingly spanned over 50 years.
Dr. Francis L. Battisti retired from his position as the Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of SUNY Broome in October of 2019. In honor of his decades of service to the College, fellow colleagues, family, and friends collaborated with SUNY Broome’s Foundation to create a space for students bearing his name. The College’s facilities staff spent months designing and constructing the Reflection Area to craft the ideal outdoor spot for students. Keep Reading
2022 – PHS Reception
2022 Student Awards Recognition Reception
Every October, a select group of parents and students move into the Klee Center of the Decker Building and split up. Parents enter the tiered rows of chairs to sit in the audience. Students head to the front of the room to find their names taped to chairs that faces the crowd of family and donors, and nervously wait for the Presidential Honors Scholarship (PHS) Reception to begin. One reason this year’s event, held on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, was remarkable was the number of waiting chairs for the PHS students.
“I had to figure out how to make the space work with as many chairs as were needed. We’ve never had so many PHS students before,” remarked scholarship coordinator, Foundation Executive Assistant Amy Englehart.
SUNY Broome chose nineteen PHS students from approximately forty-five applicants from Broome, Chenango, Delaware, and Tioga county high schools. These Hornets were selected because of their hard work and leadership, evidenced by their position in the top 10 percent of their graduating class and their extracurricular activities. Along with the prestigious title of Presidential Honors Scholar, SUNY Broome awarded students a certificate and, more importantly, a full-tuition scholarship for their two years at the College. Keep Reading.
2022 – Scholarship Reception
2022 Student Awards Recognition Reception
Recognizing excellence, donor generosity, and the most scholarships awarded in SUNY Broome Foundation history
![Photo of two students receiving scholarships at the Scholarship Reception 2022.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/ScholarshipReception2022FeaturedImage-1080x640-1-1024x607.jpg)
After cancellation in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, the Student Awards Recognition Reception returned to life on May 10, 2022. Approximately 600 students, friends, family, scholarship donors, college faculty, and staff gathered for the reception. The traditional event celebrates the philanthropy of countless donors and the academic excellence of SUNY Broome students.
View photos of the 2022 Student Awards Recognition Reception.
Three hundred and twenty-three scholarships were awarded to students during this event — the most scholarships given to date. Scholarships can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, with a few covering the total cost of tuition.
![Student Awards Recognition Reception 2022](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52119365363_82a8f27810_w.jpg)
The SUNY Broome Foundation, which raises money from those invested in SUNY Broome’s mission, provides over $1.5 million in student support each year. In total, the Foundation contributes approximately $2 million annually to financially bolster students, assist faculty development and programming, improve the campus experience, and otherwise support the college.
In a speech at the reception, Richard Allman, SUNY Broome Foundation President, noted that from the very beginning, “the Foundation’s main priority has been to raise private support from alumni, faculty, staff, and our community to ensure the success of our students.” Therefore, the scholarship reception, he added, is a marvelous blend of “recognizing the hard work of our students while also congratulating and thanking our generous donors, dedicated faculty and staff, and our student’s families and friends for their support.”
For many donors, funding a scholarship is a way to create a positive legacy for a loved one. A scholarship established in tribute to someone honors their name, creates an opportunity for their story to be retold and assists a worthy student with higher education.
A Brand-New Scholarship
![Student Awards Recognition Reception 2022](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52119607439_f6c7347cbc_w.jpg)
One notable scholarship, given for the first time this year, is the Antonio & Domenica Dream Scholarship. Antonio and Domenica immigrated to the United States with a dream of a new life for themselves and their children. Despite having little formal education, the couple believed faith, hard work, and education would unlock their success. The scholarship, established by their family, is for international students who dream of a better future for themselves and work hard to achieve their goals.
Mary Macharia, a recipient of this scholarship and a nursing major, told her supporters that she plans to intern at a local community center after graduation. After that, she has ambitious goals back in her home country of Kenya. Mary says she wants to “be a voice for the women and girls facing female genital mutilation. My nursing degree is a tool needed to equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to teach my community to abolish this act and offer counsel to the affected individuals. I want to focus on being an effective advocate and empower women to stand and fight for their rights and to abandon FGM.” She thanked her donors, adding, “Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope, one day, I will be able to fulfill my dream of helping vulnerable women, children, and students achieve their goals… just as you have helped me.”
Francia Beriguete, the other Antonio & Domenica Dream Scholarship recipient, is also a future nurse. She said, “this scholarship is going to allow me to focus more on my schoolwork because [the scholarship’s donors] have reduced my financial burden. [This] generous and thoughtful gift will allow me to pursue my dream of becoming an RN.”
SUNY Broome student launches her career in the Air Force
![Student Awards Recognition Reception 2022 Stem Division](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52128696857_bcc78ba102_b.jpg)
Another noteworthy scholarship recipient is Dani Bryan. The engineering science major graduated just this spring. “I have a passion for military service,” Dani remarked, “but also for encouraging more women to enter the field of engineering and the military.” Dani combines these loves with her passion for aerospace and airplanes. She said, “I grew up going to airshows with my family. We also frequented air and space museums across the country, and I have always enjoyed them. I am fascinated by the technological leap in aircraft through World War I and World War II.”
Dani received two scholarships from SUNY Broome, the BCC Foundation Scholarship for Excellence in Math and the Francis and Lillian Paul Transfer Scholarship. Yet, another significant and unexpected award also arrived at the scholarship reception. Mrs. Goodwin, a surprise visitor to campus, honored Dani with acceptance into the United States Air Force Academy.
She was one of 900 applicants for a position in the Air Force Academy. Dani had been nominated for both the Navy and Air Force academies. Yet, with her love for aircraft, Dani’s choice was easy.
Dani points out that SUNY Broome helped her find this path. Because of her scholarships, she’ll start at the academy with fewer loans and be able to pay for textbooks, technology, and uniforms. She adds, “getting rewarded for my academic achievements also gives me another level of confidence in my ability to succeed.”
“The leadership experiences and education I received at SUNY Broome helped bolster my resume. As a result, I was offered an appointment to the Air Force Academy for the Class of 2026,” Dani said. She added, “My goal is to serve as an officer in the Air Force for at least the required five years after the academy.”
Stories of Scholarship Winners
Every scholarship recipient has a story of perseverance and dreams to share. Here are just a few of them.
Errica Samuels, a single mom with an 8-year-old son, was awarded the Baccalaureate Scholarship. With a heart for wayward kids and adolescents in foster care, Errica hopes to have her own practice to help them one day. “I am so humbled and thankful to you all for this amazing chance to earn a scholarship! It is the first time for me [to win a scholarship], and I am so proud of myself for how far I have come in regard to my education,” she says.
Claudia Chermak received the Jack Sherman Toyota Presidential Scholarship. Claudia is an aspiring healthcare professional, working on two degrees at SUNY Broome, and is considering medical school. She is also the captain of the college’s inaugural women’s track and field team. Claudia told her donors, “With this extra financial assistance, I feel better prepared to explore my options and pursue ambitious educational and career goals. Winning this scholarship also affirms that I am on the right track academically, which boosts my self-confidence.”
![Student Awards Recognition Reception 2022 Stem Division](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52129736018_933d409cf2_c.jpg)
Samuel Ward says that, as a non-traditional student, “trying to knock the dust off my brain has been challenging, but also invigoratingly fun!” He plans to jump into a career as a computer technician after he graduates. He says, “My deepest gratitude to the donors for their assistance in allowing me to achieve a second wind in life.” Samuel was honored with the Dr. Leopold Eckler Award for Excellence in Computer Studies and the Bruce R. Schermerhorn Veterans Appreciation Scholarship.
The college is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our Hornets.
If you are interested in establishing a scholarship, contact the SUNY Broome Foundation. If you are a student looking for scholarship information, visit the scholarship website.
2022 – The Beyond the Classroom Grant Unlocks Opportunity
Beyond the Classroom
A donor-supported grant unlocks unique opportunities for students
Sometimes, the most memorable educational moments happen outside of the classroom. SUNY Broome has recognized this with our long tradition of travel and learning courses. Over the years, students and their professors have explored the Florida Everglades, National Parks, London, and more.
Many of these courses have been supported by the generosity of donors to the SUNY Broome Foundation’s Beyond the Classroom grant. This funding also enables students to travel to conferences and competitions. Here are some examples of donor dollars unlocking once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for students.
American Culinary Federation Competition
![Collage of three photos: Justin in the SUNY Broome kitchen; Justin with his award and medal; Justin's amuse bouche.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Justin-Yap-Gallery.jpg)
Justin Yap (CULI ’22), a recent graduate, represented SUNY Broome in the American Culinary Federation (ACF) competition in Las Vegas, Nevada. This competition recognizes culinary arts students with passion, professionalism, and talent. Winners of regional areas compete for the National Winner championship at the convention.
Before the competition, Justin practiced with incredible dedication. His hard work paid off and he was awarded a silver medal for “Student Chef of the Year.”
During the fierce competition, Yap was required to prepare an amuse bouche (a single bite appetizer), as well as an entrée that had to be made using a bone-in pork loin.
Civil War Conference
![SUNY Broome students on the plane headed to the Civil War Conference.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Civil-War-Conference-On-the-Plane-to-Texas.jpg)
On April 30, 2022, five individuals sat behind nameplates, glasses of water, a single microphone, and a table clothed with SUNY Broome’s logo. The students faced an educated audience of scholars, historians, professors, and military history aficionados. As panelists at the Society for Military History (SMH) Annual Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, they were about to give a presentation and Q&A based on their Fall 2021 Civil War course.
Dr. Steven Call (LA’ 78) was nervous. The SUNY Broome history professor had taught the students’ initial Civil War course. He’d watched them prepare, do a presentation dry-run in March, and guided them through airports and hotel check-ins. Now it was time for the “big show.” After the presentation, he admitted, “I needn’t have worried: they gave an excellent presentation.”
The students confidently displayed their knowledge, depth of research, and preparation as they bounced the lecture between teammates.
![SUNY Broome students standing together at the Syracuse Airport.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Civil-War-Conference-Syracuse-Airport-Back-Home.jpg)
![Photo collage of Dr. Call and the SUNY Broome students at the conference and at the airport.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Civil-War-Conference-Gallery-300x300.jpg)
“I was exceptionally impressed watching their organizational skills, the teamwork they displayed throughout, and the camaraderie they generated within the group. Both the public presentation itself and the behind-the-scenes preparations reflect the greatest credit upon themselves and the college,” said Dr. Call. He recounts, “hundreds of [conference attendees] were keen to talk to our students…Our group held up their end of the conversation with knowledge, insight, and most of all, confidence, and poise. I expected some to feel intimidated when talking with persons who they knew had much more education. Yet, even our “notoriously shy” member conversed like a seasoned scholar and an experienced interlocutor.”
As Dr. Call shepherded this opportunity, he searched for funding for the SMH conference trip. Ultimately, the Beyond the Classroom grant from the Foundation stepped in.
Looking back on the experience, Dr. Call remarks, “[Our students] highlighted the exceptionally effective academic excellence to be found here at SUNY Broome, as well as the inspiration they find here. I wish more of the public – nationally, in New York, and in our local community – could see how valuable community colleges are and what they offer our students in terms of inspiration, broadening, and individual growth.”
Studying in Iceland
![Two SUNY Broome professors and Students stand with the Fagradalsfjall volcano erupting behind them.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Iceland_20220806_132228_r-1024x768.jpg)
![SUNY Broome group toasting the eruption with the classic Icelandic candy bar, Hraun, which translates to lava.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Iceland_20220806_125338_r-225x300.jpg)
The group made the 4+ hour trek to the eruption under the guidance of the Icelandic Search and Rescue authorities to safely view the eruption. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these students and made possible with generous support from the SUNY Broome Foundation.
SUNY Broome plans to host a faculty-led travel program in Iceland in Summer 2023.
![The Fagradalsfjall volcano with a plume of white smoke joining the clouds.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Iceland_20220806_123313_r.jpg)
![The Fagradalsfjall volcano.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2022/09/Iceland_20220806_110119_r.jpg)
2021 – Lockheed Helps Students in Need
SUNY Broome Celebrates Lockheed Martin’s Commitment to the Student Emergency Fund
![(left to right) Lockheed Martin’s Vice President and Owego Site General Manager, Hamid Salim, President Kevin Drumm, student Gisele Dure and BCC Foundation President Cheryl Kurosky.](https://www2.sunybroome.edu/foundation/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2021/10/Updated-Ciara-Foundation-1000x640-1.jpg)
On Friday, June 11, 2021 members of the SUNY Broome community gathered in the Calice Connector to recognize Lockheed Martin’s (Owego) most recent, generous gift of $75,000.00 to support SUNY Broome’s Student Emergency Fund.
President Dr. Kevin Drumm opened the event by graciously thanking Lockheed Martin for over twenty-five years of community partnership and support. “Our neighbor to the west has always treated SUNY Broome as a priority and an investment. Whether it be through grants, merit scholarships, a physical collaborative classroom on campus, resources for our veterans, or internships for our students, Lockheed Martin has always made an impact. Thank you on behalf of all of our students and particularly the 150 students who were able to access emergency funding during the pandemic thanks to your $75,000.00 donation,” said President Drumm.
The Student Emergency Fund was the pre-pandemic brainchild of the Financial Wellness Committee led by Director of Student Financial Services, Laura Hodel, and Executive Director of the BCC Foundation, Cathy Williams. The goal of this grant was to designate easily accessible funds to help students cover unexpected costs during life’s emergencies. These funds, which range from $50.00 – $1,000.00, could be used to cover the cost of technology, school supplies, internet access, rent, food, childcare, transportation, or medical bills. Little did we know just how necessary this initiative would become…
During the height of the pandemic, the BCC Foundation sprung into action and coordinated a massive giving campaign to bolster the Student Emergency Fund. Thanks to the generous support of almost 400 of SUNY Broome’s alumni, faculty, staff, and campus partners, the Foundation was able to raise $68,000.00 in eight weeks. The BCC Foundation then secured $58,000.00 in matching funds via the SUNY Impact Foundation. Then our partners at Lockheed Martin contacted SUNY Broome with a simple, succinct message, “We want to help.”
Lockheed Martin’s Vice President and Owego Site General Manager, Hamid Salim, was honored to come to campus to share in the celebration of supporting our community’s students. “We all know what a tremendous toll the pandemic took on nearly every facet of our lives – it has impacted our families, our businesses, and our communities, and our students at every level. We hope that this relief fund gave students the support they needed and allowed them to continue their studies without that additional worry,” said Salim.
Nursing student Gisele Dure attended the press conference highlighting the Student Emergency Fund to personally thank members of the Lockeed Martin and SUNY Broome community for their support during her time of need.
“It was just a rough time for all of us, but especially for me as a single mother. I had to balance my nursing classes, labs, and clinicals, my job at a rehabilitation and nursing center, and monitor homeschooling. On the suggestion of my advisor, Lori Brewer, I applied for the grant to help me cover survival expenses – just critical, basic things like my rent and utility bills. The application process was so simple and I am really thankful for it,” Dure said.
Cheryl Kurosky (SC ’76), President of the BCC Foundation Board of Directors, was delighted to announce that the Student Emergency Fund will remain as a source of financial support beyond the scope of the pandemic, greatly in part due to Lockheed Martin’s dedicated and unwavering commitment to SUNY Broome. To date, 214 students have been able to access this funding. As both a SUNY Broome alum and a Lockheed Martin retiree, Kurosky is particularly pleased with the partnership of two of her favorite institutions. Currently, over 300 SUNY Broome alumni are employed by Lockheed Martin.
2021 – The Jumpstart Scholarship
The Jumpstart Scholarship: A great opportunity for new, first-time college students to get started
In a press conference in April 2021, SUNY Broome President Dr. Kevin Drumm and The BCC Foundation’s Executive Director, Cathy Abashian Williams, announced a new source of financial support available to students. The Jumpstart Scholarship program will ensure a minimum of $500 in funding to all qualified new, first-time, admitted students to help offset the cost of tuition and/or related college expenses.
“Recent studies have shown that many students are struggling financially especially after the effects of the pandemic.” explained President Drumm. “We understand the ongoing impact of the pandemic and have significant funding available to help students with the cost. We want to give new students the chance to rediscover the opportunities and value that SUNY Broome and higher education provides.”
The BCC Foundation already awards over 1 million dollars a year in scholarships to assist full-time and part-time students with the cost of attendance including, housing, food, transportation, and emergency events. The college
also awards millions of dollars in grant and scholarship funds from federal, state, and other local entities. 87% of SUNY Broome students will receive some form of financial aid.
“It is our goal for the fall to get as close to 100% of students receiving some sort of financial aid as we can get.” said President Drumm. “So, if you didn’t qualify for financial aid before, you will be able to get it with the Jumpstart Scholarship program.”
SUNY Broome offers students with the best possible start, whether it’s an opportunity to study a critical skilled trade and directly enter the workforce, or the ability to take advantage of dozens of incredible transfer agreements with institutions throughout the state and beyond. This scholarship makes this start more feasible for so many in our community.
“Student support is our top priority and we are particularly excited about the Jumpstart program because it comes at a time to help open the door for even those students who may not have qualified for any funding previously,” said Cathy Abashian Williams, Executive Director of The BCC Foundation. “The good news is that in addition to the Jumpstart program we also have a significant number of available need-based grants in aid and merit scholarships to help support the cost of college and help reduce any barriers a student may be facing to get access to high quality public education.”
“This past year has been so difficult for so many,” said Director of Student Financial Services, Laura Hodel. “Providing our newly admitted students with a minimum of $500 will hopefully alleviate financial barriers they may be facing and make the transition to SUNY Broome a seamless one.”