Who You Help

Gifts from our donors assist hundreds of students each year. These are just a few of their stories.

Monthly meetings with his mentor. Tutors as needed. Technical assistance with Microsoft. For José Oquendo ’25, these supports in the Presidential Scholar Opportunity Program have given him the tools he needs to succeed as he works toward his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Amoya Stewart

For Amoya Stewart, receiving the Michael LaManna Memorial Scholarship was not only a financial boost but an emotional one. “It provided stability, dignity, and hope at a time when I needed it most,” says Stewart, a single mom in New Windsor, NY, who works as a teacher’s aide in a special ed classroom

Luis Torres '24

Luis Torres '24 was drawn to Empire State University for its flexibility and the commitment of its faculty. He also had the endorsement of a close friend, another student. “I view SUNY Empire as a hidden gem,” says Luis of Brentwood, NY. “It offers a high quality, affordable education and boasts a dedicated staff.”

Zoe Bonaparte

Zoe Bonaparte ’23 had an ambitious 10-year plan to get her associate degree in two years, her bachelor’s in three, and her master’s in five. Five years in, she’s still on track, with plans to become a family nurse practitioner.

Matthew Berge

When I earned my associate degree at SUNY Suffolk, I excelled in online classes. That made SUNY Empire appealing. After learning about the ability to design your degree plan and options to take independent study courses, I knew Empire was the right choice for me.