For Immediate Release
September 26, 2024

Suffolk Community College Foundation Announces Scholarships for Local and Latino Students in the Patchogue/Medford Area

The Suffolk Community College Foundation is pleased to announce the continuation of two significant scholarship programs aimed at supporting students in the Patchogue/Medford area, including those from Latino backgrounds. The scholarships, which were introduced last year, are designed to assist students who face financial barriers and need additional support to achieve their academic goals as they attend Suffolk County Community College.

David M. Sperling “DREAM” Scholarship

The David M. Sperling “DREAM” Scholarship addresses the needs of first-generation college students who do not meet federal or state residency requirements for financial aid. This scholarship is available to both full-time and part-time students who are enrolled in college-wide programs. Eligible candidates include those who face financial difficulties, lack necessary documentation for federal or state financial aid, or are in the process of obtaining U.S. residency or citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements:

• New Students: Minimum GPA of 80
• Continuing Students: Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Award Amount: $1,000 each for 15 students

Knapp Swezey Scholarship

The Knapp Swezey Scholarship is designed to provide comprehensive support for students at Suffolk County Community College. This grant covers tuition and offers a range of wrap-around services aimed at enhancing student success. These services include academic guidance, tutoring, behavioral health support, peer mentoring, success coaching, and assistance with school supplies, transportation, and meal plans. Additionally, the scholarship supports access to career services, including résumé assistance, interview preparation, and job search support.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an incoming student from Patchogue-Medford High School or Bellport High School
• Maintain a B average to receive the second-year scholarship
• Award Amount: Up to $20,000 for two years
• These scholarships reflect our commitment to empowering local students and supporting their educational journey. We are thrilled to continue this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact on our community.

For more information about the scholarships or to apply, please visit sunysuffolk.edu/scholarships or email engm@sunyuffolk.edu

About Suffolk County Community College

Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With over 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school, to college, and into careers.

 The Suffolk Community College Foundation

Suffolk Community College Foundation’s mission is to support student access to quality education and workforce training by providing scholarships, emergency student loans and funding for program development. The Foundation awards hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. Additionally, the Foundation seeks to engage alumni to maintain their connection to the college, to support foundation events, philanthropy, student mentorship and internship opportunities.

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