Westchester Community College to Offer Short-Term Workforce Training in New White Plains Center with Major Funding from JPMorgan Chase

White Plains – November 30, 2021. Westchester Community College (WCC) began operations at the White Plains Education & Training Center (WPETC) this month to provide a convenient and state-of-the-art location for those looking to re-enter or upskill in the workforce. Centrally located within the White Plains Brookfield Commons residential housing complex, the community celebrated the official reopening of the facility with a ribbon cutting ceremony on November 10, 2021. WCC is partnering with a network of organizations and companies to deliver short-term training tailored to the needs of area employers.

WPETC will provide pathways to employment and advancement for the residents of Westchester and the region. Under the auspices of the Division of Workforce Development and Community Education, the White Plains Center will focus on in-demand middle skill careers, short-term training for those jobs that require more than a high school diploma but less than an associate degree.

“This project has been close to my heart since the start” said Tom Roach, Mayor of White Plains. “As a key education and workforce training partner, Westchester Community College is poised to provide critical training in key industries in the Lower Hudson Valley, including healthcare, IT, construction and more, for the residents of White Plains and Westchester County.”

“It is our goal to work with local employers to create innovative programs that will deliver a workforce trained to meet the needs of our region’s 21st Century economy,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, President of Westchester Community College. “The White Plains Education and Training Center provides flexible schedules; programs taught by leading experts in the region and hands-on experience to give employees and career seekers the tools to advance economically.”

WPETC has been funded through the generous support of the Westchester Community Foundation and a $400,000 investment from JPMorgan to support the Center’s on-going training programs.

“Westchester Community College is an anchor institution in the community, connecting people to education, jobs and opportunity,” said Rafia Zahir-Uddin, vice president, Global Philanthropy, JPMorgan Chase.

“We are investing in the White Plains Education & Training Center to help local residents access the training and skills needed to compete for in-demand, well-paying jobs.”

Scholarships are also available for many of these programs for students who qualify. Learn more at https://www.sunywcc.edu/continuing-ed/workforce-development-scholarships/

Contact Information

For more information about programs and services at the White Plains Education and Training Center call 914-606-7558 or email wpetc@sunywcc.edu.

Ten Westchester Community College Students Transition to Prestigious Universities with $50,000 Scholarships in WCC/The PepsiCo Foundation Partnership

Ten students from Westchester Community College (WCC) have been selected to receive a S.M.I.L.E. Scholarship from PepsiCo and its philanthropic arm, The PepsiCo Foundation. This new scholarship is part of PepsiCo’s $40 million Community College Program – established to address the issue of minority under representation in high-demand fields.

The PepsiCo Foundation’s community college program includes two types of scholarships – Uplift Scholarships for students seeking two-year associate degrees or trade certificates and S.M.I.L.E (Success Matters in Life & Education) scholarships for community college graduates transitioning to four-year colleges. Of the 13 community college selected to partner with The PepsiCo Foundation on this vital initiative, Westchester Community College is one of only three community colleges to partner with the organization for both opportunities specifically for Black and Hispanic students.

Over five years, The PepsiCo Foundation S.M.I.L.E. Scholarship (Success Matters in Life & Education) will award two-year scholarships of up to $25,000 per year ($50,000 total) to Black and Hispanic WCC students. Each scholar will also be assigned a professional mentor from PepsiCo to provide guidance and support along their educational journey, and financial literacy courses. To qualify, students must be transitioning to complete their Bachelor’s degree in a business or STEM field in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S. PepsiCo recently announced the first 10 WCC 2021 graduates to be selected as S.M.I.L.E. Scholarship recipients. The scholars and their current schools are:

• Juliette Pacheco – Lehman College
• Thabo Ngwenya – Columbia University
• Aniya Matthews – Binghamton University
• James Gibbs – Fordham University
• Sarah Murdock – Binghamton University
• Susan Sanchez – SUNY Polytechnic
• Hugo Bravo – Baruch College
• Tiffany Patton – Baruch College
• Pamela Morales – Baruch College
• Jorge Zhiminaicela – SUNY Polytechnic

To learn more about this opportunity, please visit: https://www.sunywcc.edu/admissions/scholarships/pepsico-foundation-smile/

”The S.M.I.L.E. Scholarship reflects a shared commitment to diversity and access by Westchester Community College and PepsiCo,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, President of Westchester Community College. “This generous scholarship provides our students with a life-changing opportunity to pursue their goals and reach their full potential. The students selected for this meaningful scholarship have distinguished themselves through their perseverance and accomplishments, and are illustrative of the thousands of students who begin their higher education journey at WCC before advancing to four-year institutions and high-demand careers.”

“Black and Hispanic students are facing an unprecedented educational crisis as enrollment rates continue to decline and dropout rates increase, often because of financial needs outside of tuition. Students need more than scholarships – they need support to stay in school, finish their degrees and access the job market,” said C.D. Glin, Global Head of Philanthropy, PepsiCo & Vice President, The PepsiCo Foundation. “We launched this program to help students address the most critical barriers to their education and economic success, and we’re proud to announce today that we’re bringing more students in and helping them on their academic journey.”

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. “Winning with Purpose” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

About The PepsiCo Foundation

Established in 1962, The PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, invests in the essential elements of a sustainable food system with a mission to support thriving communities. Working with non-profits and experts around the globe, we’re focused on helping communities obtain access to food security, safe water and economic opportunity. We strive for tangible impact in the places where we live and work—collaborating with industry peers, local and international organizations, and our employees to affect large-scale change on the issues that matter to us and are of global importance. Learn more at www.pepsico.com/sustainability/philanthropy.

October 22, 2021

Westchester Community College welcomed a new cohort of 18 students into its Honors College for the fall 2021 semester. This is the fifth entering cohort since the Honors College founding in 2017. These ambitious scholars are pursuing SUNY and NYSDE approved honors-designated degrees in one of two curricula: Liberal Arts and Sciences: Social Science, or Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities. Honors College students are chosen following a rigorous selection process, including extensive applications, recommendations and interviews.

Accepted students receive guaranteed tuition coverage and substantial textbook stipends from the WCC Foundation thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. They will have to fulfill at least 40% of their program requirements at the honors level and maintain a 3.5 GPA to graduate with an honors-designated associate degree. These student scholars also have access to specialized co-curricular programming, including the study abroad program offered in partnership with Cambridge University, the Philosophia Honors Society, student conferences and symposia, student publications, and internships.

“As a first-generation American and a first-generation high-school student, I worked very hard not only to achieve personal excellence but also to be a role model to my younger family members,” said Denise Quituisaca, graduate of Peekskill High School. “Due to my financial status, I was worried that I would not be able to extend my education beyond high school. The WCC Honors College has opened a door for me to continue my studies, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude.”

“Westchester Community College is an institution where those with a passion to improve and achieve can find the resources and instruction needed to reach their goals,” said WCC President Dr. Belinda Miles. “Students from all walks of life, with a diverse array of needs and interests, seek their opportunity on our campus. Our most recent Honors College students are not just an elite cohort; they exemplify the spirit of all our students. From the student whose life goal is to help teens in need of mental assistance because she was told that adolescents like her shouldn’t have any mental issues to the immigrant student who plans to become a lawyer and advocate for human rights, WCC will be preparing a new generation of change-makers whose vision and devotion will help make our region – and our nation – a better place.”

“We are proud of the opportunities we offer our high-achieving students, such as those in our Honors College. WCC offers these students a tremendous foundation for pursuing their academic goals at such four-year institutions as Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Columbia, Williams, NYU, Sarah Lawrence, as well as SUNY campuses and local colleges.”

Honors College Class of 2023 Cohort:

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Social Science A.A., Honors Concentration

• Arianna Roberts, graduate of Nutley High School, Nutley, NJ
• Thomas Browne, graduate of Pleasantville High School, Pleasantville, NY
• Razan Mustafa, graduate of Harrison High School, Harrison, NY
• Deborah Correia, graduate of Port Chester High School, Port Chester, NY
• Nicholas Derubeis, graduate of Valhalla High School, Valhalla, NY
• Daniela Bloom, graduate of Peekskill High School, Peekskill, NY
• Olivia Toth, graduate of Putnam Valley High School, Putnam Valley, NY
• Maria Lozada Irenes, graduate of Yonkers Middle High School, Yonkers, NY
• Jessica Yuqui, graduate of Sleepy Hollow High School, Sleepy Hollow, NY
• Steve Lojano, graduate of Ossining High School, Ossining, NY
• Wendy Salcedo, graduate of Port Chester High School, Port Chester, NY
• Nancy Rodriguez, graduate of Port Chester High School, Port Chester, NY
• Marcos Fernandez Suero, graduate of Carmel High School, Carmel, NY
• Emily Duche, graduate of Port Chester High School, Port Chester, NY
• Jason Tamay, graduate of Ossining High School, Ossining, NY
• Denise, Quituisaca, graduate of Peekskill High School, Peekskill, NY
• Genesis Samaniego, graduate of New Rochelle High School, New Rochelle, NY

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities A.A., Honors Concentration

• David Wilsea, graduate of Karafin School, Mount Kisco, NY

Vaccination rates reach 97% for employees and students alongside evidence-based health and safety protocols and extensive community outreach

Spring semester registration begins October 25 with expanded in-person courses available

Westchester Community College announced that it has reached a COVID-19 vaccination rate of 97% among its undergraduate students taking in-person classes and 97% among its on-site employees. The exceptional cooperation by WCC’s students and employees follows an aggressive outreach program that included a persistent communications campaign, convenient vaccination drives, and information sessions featuring Westchester County Department of Health officials. As a result of enhanced health safety protocols, the COVID positivity rate at WCC has remained at or below 0.5% during the fall semester, well below the state average range of 2.4% to 3.3% during the same period.

WCC allows medical and religious exemptions, and anyone who comes to campus without being vaccinated must participate in a weekly COVID-19 testing regimen at Westchester Medical Center. Everyone indoors while on college property must wear a mask and practice social distancing whenever practicable.

Expanding access to in-person classes is critical for students in courses where hands-on lab work is crucial to the learning process. Being on campus can be a valuable component of the college experience, helping new students acclimate and connect with their peers. For students who prefer not to be on campus, WCC also offers a wide selection of synchronous courses remotely. All online courses are held to the same high academic standards that exist for in-person courses. Registration for the Spring 2022 semester begins October 25. Information on the Spring 2022 semester is available at www.sunywcc.edu/spring.

Students must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption in order to register for in-person courses. Information on WCC’s COVID safety protocols is available at www.sunywcc.edu/COVID.

“I was somewhat hesitant with going back onto campus in the beginning. I didn’t know what it was going to be like or what safety protocols would be in place due to the pandemic,” said Melissa Brown, Westchester Community College student. “I have been back on campus since the very beginning of the semester and am pleasantly surprised with how everything is being run. The classes are much smaller, but the learning I am able to obtain is much greater. I am mournful about the commute, but there is truly nothing that can replace in person classes, learning, personal connections and the hands-on experiences I am able to obtain are extremely beneficial. “

“With Westchester County being the original epicenter of the pandemic in New York State, Westchester Community College has been confronting this public health crisis and its life-threatening effects from the start. Vaccines and protocols to protect our health are helping us confidently return to more familiar in-person educational environments,” said Dr. Belinda Miles, Westchester Community College President. “The evidence is showing that our collective actions are working. We thank our colleagues at the State University of New York, Westchester County, Westchester Medical Center, and other partners for their tenacity and expert guidance. We especially thank our students, faculty, and staff for fostering a community of care that creates safe spaces for teaching and learning.”

September 30, 2021

Valhalla, NY— Maria Clinton, adjunct professor of Film at Westchester Community College (WCC), won Outstanding Short Documentary at the 42^nd Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards for the film she co-directed, “The Love Bugs.”

The Love Bugs is the story of two entomologists, Lois and Charlie O’Brien, who share their love of bugs and of each other. The co-director came upon an NPR article of the O’Brien’s story and their estimated $10 million gift to ASU, that included their massive bug collection of 1.25 million specimens. After gaining the O’Brien’s permission to film their story, production took roughly two years to complete the film.

The film premiered in May 2019, touring several film festivals in the United States, which opened opportunities for international screenings. American Film Showcase selected The Love Bugs to use in its ‘film diplomacy program’ that connects embassies throughout the world through film. This Emmy Award is one of the many awards that the film has received.

“It is phenomenal to win an Emmy amongst so many talented filmmakers and incredible films!” said Clinton. “I am overjoyed and so proud of The Love Bugs team for all their hard work to make this film what it is. I am also so grateful to have the support of POV (PBS) and so many others that made this film possible. Thank you to Lois and Charlie O’Brien for allowing us to share their story and their 1.25 million specimens! I am really excited that their legacy can continue on, and that news is being spread about their monumental contribution to the field of entomology.  Their work is also opening the door to discuss the effects of climate change and its impact on insects, an important element of our ecosystem.”

The film can be streamed courtesy of the PBS YouTube channel. Information on registering for Maria Clinton’s Documentary Filmmaking class at Westchester Community College is available here.

Westchester Community College Sign First Honors Program Transfer Agreements With Drew University To Benefit WCC Davis Scholars and WCC Honors Program Students

Westchester Community College (WCC) has signed two new articulation agreements that enable WCC Davis Scholars and WCC Honors students to transfer seamlessly into Drew University’s baccalaureate and Drew Action Scholars: Community, Innovation, and Global Impact Program.

Students who complete WCC’s Davis Scholars Program and graduate with a minimum GPA of 3.0 will be granted junior status at Drew University. Each admitted Davis Scholar will be awarded a $2,500 scholarship per year for participation in the Drew Action Scholars program. Students who complete at least two semesters in the WCC Honors Program and graduate with a minimum GPA of 3.5 will also be granted junior status at Drew University.  Each admitted honors student will receive a $3,000 grant from Drew annually, and those with a GPA of 3.5 or higher will receive a Transfer Dean’s Scholarship while those with a GPA of 3.75 or higher will receive a Transfer Presidential Scholarship (In 2020 these scholarships were $15,000 and $20,000, respectively, and might vary in future years.) Students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa will receive an additional $2,500 scholarship per year.

“WCC is dedicated to providing pathways for every student to achieve their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, President of Westchester Community College. “These articulation agreements provide wonderful opportunities for our amazing Davis Scholars and Honors Program students, who must maintain high standards for academic achievement and community service. These honors students will be a proud addition to the Drew University community, as they have been at WCC.”

“This partnership is a win-win for both schools,” said Drew University President Tom Schwarz. “Drew will be infused with more terrific learners, and Westchester students will receive a world-class education at a four-year institution. We are particularly excited about this partnership’s civic aspect, which allows WCC Davis Scholars to join the Drew Action Scholars program and make an impact on our community, locally and globally. Adding to the world’s good is something we stress at Drew and we’re happy to welcome more civically engaged students to the program.”

Interested students will be able to visit the Drew campus as a group, will attend classes of interest and will meet with Drew faculty and staff to discuss their academic interests. Transportation will be financed by Drew University. Those wishing to learn more should visit WCC/Drew University, Transfer Agreement – Westchester Community College (sunywcc.edu)

About Drew University

Drew University, a Phi Beta Kappa liberal arts university, includes the College of Liberal Arts, the Drew Theological School and the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies. Drew is located on a beautiful, wooded campus in Madison, New Jersey, a thriving small town close to New York City.

It has a total enrollment of more than 2,000 students and has 148 full-time faculty members, 99% of whom hold the terminal degree in their field. The Theological and Caspersen schools offer MA and PhD degrees, and the College confers BA and BS degrees in over 50 disciplines, and offers 16 preprofessional and 16 dual-degree programs.

Drew’s one-of-a-kind, leading edge path to an undergraduate degree, Launch, ensures that every student graduates with a purpose, sought-after transferable skills, a network of mentors, and an experience-based résumé—guaranteed. Particularly noteworthy opportunities for undergraduates include the Charles A. Dana Research Institute for Scientists Emeriti (RISE), home of 2015 Nobel Prize Winner for Medicine and Drew Fellow William Campbell, the Drew Summer Science Institute (DSSI), the Center for Civic Engagement, as well as New York City semesters focusing on Communications & Media, Contemporary Art, Museums & Cultural Management, New York Theatre, Social Entrepreneurship, Wall Street, and the United Nations, and several international semester programs.

Drew also houses the Center on Religion, Culture & Conflict, the Center for Holocaust/Genocide Study and the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, an independent professional theater, as well as the United Methodist Archives and History Center and one of the country’s leading concentrations of materials on Willa Cather.

Valhalla, NY— Westchester Community College (WCC) was selected from a competitive field of community colleges across the country to receive $50,000 to transform the future of students in the community. Funded by Metallica’s All Within My Hands (AWMH) and led by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Metallica Scholars Initiative was designed to directly support students while also elevating the importance of career and technical education. This work is highlighted at a global level by leveraging the influence of the rock band Metallica who continue to speak out on the dignity of professional trades and community colleges that prepare students. This is WCC’s second grant from the program, which last year helped over 250 students to receive training and professional certifications, increasing their employability.

The Metallica Scholars Initiative is now in its third year and has fundamentally improved the earning potential for students who become Metallica Scholars. WCC and Metallica will continue to “Rock the Workforce” by focusing this year’s grant on training skilled workers for Westchester’s growing advanced manufacturing industry.  WCC will prioritize non-traditional students who are looking to re-enter or upskill in the workforce in Advanced Manufacturing fields. At least twenty-four Metallica Scholars will receive curriculum and certifications to qualify for MSSC (Manufacturing Skill Standards Council) certifications or NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) certifications, leading to employment in middle skill positions.  They will be showcased to promote varying skilled trade pathways as a means to economic development.

“By awarding me the Metallica Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which permits me to focus more on the most important aspect of college – education,” said WCC student Emma Tollinchi. “Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. Thank you for believing in me, Metallica Scholars.”

“WCC is proud to partner again with Metallica’s All Within My Hands to develop a new generation of trained middle skills employees,” said Dr. Belinda Miles, President at Westchester Community College. “Companies look to WCC to train the advanced manufacturing workforce that helps drive our region’s economic engine. This generous grant will help us reach dozens of students who might otherwise never have recognized or reached their full potential.”

“The foundation and the band pay attention and follow these programs and students, and there is no doubt that lives have been changed. What makes this work so unique is that in addition to supporting students directly, our goal is not just to change individual lives, it is to unabashedly promote the trades as meaningful and well-paying career pathways. We are not afraid to be loud nor to dig in on things we believe in, and we believe in these students,” said Dr. Edward Frank, executive director of AWMH.

“We are proud to work with Metallica to advance the career and technical education provided by the nation’s community colleges,” said Walter G. Bumphus, AACC’s president and CEO.  “Colleges across the country provide pathways to well-paying jobs through programs, services and training that lead to in-demand skills, certificates and degrees for students.  These programs are responsive to the needs of local businesses and provide a pipeline of qualified workers to local industry.  It’s a win-win for our students and the local economy. For Metallica to continue to invest in these students and communities is a testament to the power of the workforce education community colleges provide and we are proud to do this work with them.”

James Hetfield, Metallica’s vocalist/guitarist and co-founder said, “As a touring entity we are in direct involvement with multiple essential career choices along our path. From electrical, professional driving, culinary, mechanical maintenance, public safety, logistical organizers. And that just scratches the surface. Those, along with a multitude of other technical careers, make our touring and our performances possible. We are passionate and grateful to these trades and tradespeople.”

For more information on WCC’s 2021-22 Metallica Scholars Initiative, please visit: https://www.sunywcc.edu/about/foundation/fund-for-wcc/metallica-and-wcc-rock-the-workforce/

About All Within My Hands

All Within My Hands (AWMH) was established in 2017 by Metallica as a means to invest in the people and places that have supported the band. It also provides a mechanism for Metallica’s fans to become engaged in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Foundation is focused on supporting sustainable communities through workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services, and is fully supported by the band, the AWMH board, and by fans. All expenses of the Foundation are covered by the band, the board, and a few special friends, so that 100% of donations go to the organizations it supports. AWMH is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information, please visit www.allwithinmyhands.org.

About American Association of Community Colleges

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), delivers educational and economic opportunity for nearly 12 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s 1,040 member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all.

Jeff Goldberg has been named as Chief Financial Officer, Westchester Community College (WCC) Foundation. In this role, Mr. Goldberg will oversee the finances of the Foundation, which awards over $2 million in scholarships annually to WCC students in need. He will work with Executive Director Dolores Swirin-Yao to ensure the Foundation’s long-term sustainability and philanthropic role in supporting the College’s values of student success, excellence, and opportunity.

Mr. Goldberg has an extensive background in finance and accounting, the last decade of which was in nonprofit CFO roles. In his most recent position, at Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, he provided financial administration of a substantial scholarship program. He feels that education is a thread that goes through most of his career, including his 14-year tenure as Controller of Kaplan, the educational services company. Mr. Goldberg earned a BBA in Accounting at Adelphi University.

“My years as CFO for multiple nonprofits has further contributed to a passion for helping such organizations fulfill their missions,” said Mr. Goldberg. “The WCC Foundation is an exemplar for anyone wishing to have an impact upon the lives of the thousands of students and families in need, especially those who have suffered through the pandemic and resultant economic hardships.”

“After an extensive search that brought a very diverse and well-qualified field of candidates, we are thrilled to have Jeff join the WCC Foundation,” said Board Chair Joanne Landau. “Jeff brings to our organization an extensive background in financial management of not-for-profit organizations that will serve our Foundation well as we continue to invest in our county’s most precious resource – our untapped intellectual capital.”

Agreement for Students Pursuing Degrees In Environmental Studies or Exercise Science

Westchester Community College (WCC) has signed a new transfer agreement with SUNY Potsdam enabling students who have earned either an Associate’s in Science (AS) degree in Environmental Studies or Health & Human Performance to pursue their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Environmental Studies or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Exercise Science, respectively, at SUNY Potsdam.

These WCC students who graduate with a minimum GPA of 2.0 will be guaranteed acceptance to SUNY Potsdam and will transfer with junior status. Students who participate in this program will have up to 64 credits applied toward completion of the articulated SUNY Potsdam Bachelor’s degree program. Students will need to complete a minimum of 45 upper-division credits, of which 15 must be in the major, to satisfy SUNY Potsdam’s baccalaureate degree requirements. Transferring students with a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher are encouraged to apply for transfer scholarship money.

“This articulation agreement is an exciting new pathway for our students to advance their academic career in high-demand fields,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, President of Westchester Community College. “SUNY Potsdam provides our graduates with the opportunity to seamlessly transition to an excellent four-year institution where they can prepare for a career that will help themselves, their families, and their communities.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Westchester Community College to offer new pathways for students to further their studies in two of our most hands-on majors—environmental studies and exercise science. WCC graduates are well prepared to succeed in our baccalaureate programs, and we know they will thrive here at Potsdam and in their future careers,” said Dr. Bette Bergeron, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at SUNY Potsdam.

Students interested in learning more about this transfer opportunity should visit www.sunywcc.edu/sunypotsdam-transfer

About Westchester Community College

Westchester Community College provides over 31,000 full-time and part-time students with an education taught by award-winning faculty at one of the lowest tuition rates in New York State. The college offers over 60 degree and certificate programs, including innovative

programs in such high-demand fields as cybersecurity, health information technology, respiratory therapy, and digital filmmaking. The college reflects the rich diversity of its region and was the first SUNY campus to be designated a Hispanic Serving Institution.

About SUNY Potsdam:

Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America’s first 50 colleges—and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 3,600 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit www.potsdam.edu.

Westchester Community College announces that it has far exceeded federal requirements in the distribution of student aid funding provided by the CARES Act.

Westchester Community College has distributed over $6 million in emergency financial aid grants to more than 3,400 students through federal CARES Act funding. WCC received $7.2 million in total CARES Act funding to be used equally for student aid and institutional support. The college decided to direct two-thirds of its Institutional CARES Act award towards direct student aid. As a result, student grants represent 83% of WCC’s overall CARES Act allocation, far surpassing the federal minimum requirement of 50%.

In addition to the CARES Act funding, the College has received federal CRSSA funds of $3.6 million for Student Emergency Aid, and has, to date, distributed $2.8 million of those funds.  The College also received a separate CARES Act grant as a Minority Serving Institution, and will be receiving further student awards through ARP Act funding shortly.

The emergency grants have enabled WCC students to remain enrolled and pursue the coursework needed to complete their studies despite hardships they encountered due to the pandemic and resulting economic crises. Of the 3,451 students who received a financial award, more than half received multiple grants, indicating the level of need many of WCC’s students faced. Students were able to use this aid for food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, child care and/or transportation as a result of the crisis.

“As a single mother with two children (one who has special needs), the pandemic hit us hard,” said WCC student Silmara Grandes.  “My daughter was no longer able to receive special education outside of the home, which meant I could not work for several months.  That’s when Professor G told me about the CARES Act.  The grant allowed me to care for my family, pay some of my bills, and graduate with a 3.64 GPA!  I am so grateful to the college for all of their guidance over the past couple of years, and especially for helping me in our time of need.  I have always felt that the professors and advisors at WCC always cared!  I look forward to beginning my next chapter!”

In addition to these direct payments to students in need, WCC supported students through other initiatives, including providing laptops to students who needed these to continue their studies remotely; distribution of hundreds of pre-bagged meals, food gift cards and transportation vouchers; and mental health and counseling services for those struggling with the strains of the pandemic and related issues.

“Westchester County was the original epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, president of Westchester Community College. “Many members of the WCC community, especially our students, faced challenges of health concerns, loss of family and friends, economic hardships, childcare requirements, and stress from social injustice. Our students were inspirational in their resilience and determination in persevering, and every member of the WCC community was honored to do their share in supporting our students’ efforts.”