Stony Brook University has been awarded a $1 million grant from the Gray Foundation to support undergraduate scholarships. This funding will benefit 10 students from New York City Public Schools, who are part of SUNY's Top 10% Promise program. The program guarantees admission to students in the top 10% of their high school class, provided they meet certain academic criteria.
The scholarships aim to cover various expenses, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, transportation, and personal costs. Additionally, students can request funds for enrichment activities such as study abroad programs or unpaid internships. Each recipient will also receive guidance from a college success coach and career development services.
Charissa Fernández, President of the Gray Foundation, stated: “Since 2019, the Gray NYC Scholars Program has been providing talented NYC students from low-income backgrounds the opportunity to have a full on-campus college experience. We are proud to count Stony Brook University, with its strong track record of promoting economic mobility, among the 16 colleges that our 100 scholars attend.”
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. highlighted the impact of this initiative: “Empowering students and helping move New York forward is what SUNY does... Thanks to the generous support of the Gray Foundation... I am deeply grateful to Mindy and Jon Gray for their commitment to helping NYC students from low-income backgrounds achieve the American Dream through an excellent SUNY education.”
Carl W. Lejuez, Executive Vice President and Provost at Stony Brook University, expressed gratitude: “These scholarships offer unparalleled opportunities... As the state’s number one public university... We are deeply grateful to the Gray Foundation for recognizing the potential of our students.”
Rachelle Germana, Senior Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education at Stony Brook University, added: “There is an incredible synergy between the Gray Foundation’s commitment... This scholarship is opening doors and opportunities... In addition to academic opportunities... this gift will empower these students.”