2025 Scholarship Recipients
Juddelis Villar
Interactive Digital Media and Marketing, BS
Doris Metzger Miller Datakey Scholarship
“This support would mean more than just financial relief: it represents an opportunity to make an impact. I am committed to building a career where social media serves as a tool to educate and empower others, broadening access to knowledge in innovative ways. I believe in myself, and I believe that this scholarship is an investment in a future dedicated to positive change.”
Maria Pinanjota
Accounting, BBA
The Alumni Scholarship
“My journey toward higher education has been defined by perseverance, resilience, and a strong commitment to providing a better future for my daughter. My background, including both the challenges I have faced and the experiences that have shaped my perspective, has deeply influenced my desire to complete my degree in Accounting. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to support my academic and professional goals, as well as to ensure a brighter future for my family.”
Aaron Kusi
Information Technology, BS
The John Nunes Technology Scholarship
“In addition to my academic pursuits, I have sought to give back to my community. I have volunteered at local organizations, teaching basic computer skills to underprivileged youth. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, as I have witnessed firsthand the impact that technology can have on individuals’ lives. I believe that by sharing my knowledge and skills, I can help others unlock their potential and create pathways for their success. I hope that one day, I can inspire others to pursue their dreams, just as I have been inspired by those who have supported me along the way.”
Naelijwa Ernest Mrutu Gastorn
Business Administration, BBA
The Justin Stone Memorial Scholarship
“The root of my journey is not just about personal success but the belief that education unlocks doors—doors to opportunities that can shape destinies. By equipping myself with knowledge and skills, I lay down steppingstones for my children to walk on as they grow, encouraging them to pursue their dreams without the fear of the obstacles that once seemed impossible.”
Amerah Hanna
Health Services Administration, BBA
The Jeanne Sutkowski Scholarship
“As I have matured, the value of education has deepened for me, and I have recognized the importance of furthering my studies. After my fourth and final child, I started thinking about my future and our family’s future. I wanted to set a prime example for our children, encouraging and demonstrating to them the importance of higher education. This is when I felt the desire to continue and pursue my education. I wanted to be a role model for my children; if mommy can get it done, then so can they!”
Tajja Sharperson
Business Administration-Management, BBA
The Webster Bank Scholarship
“This scholarship makes a significant difference in my ability to finish my degree, pay off debt, and continue to balance work, school, and family life. It provides me with the opportunity to show my children that despite the hardships, we can achieve anything if we keep pushing forward. I’ve learned to manage my time, prioritize my health, and eliminate negativity from my life. I am dedicated to making my dreams a reality, not just for myself but for my children, who deserve a better life than I had. This scholarship is the key to unlocking that future and allowing me to continue pursuing higher education while being the best mother, role model, and friend I can be.”
Jacquetta Sykes
BS, Human and Social Services
The Audiology Associates Westchester Scholarship
“The intersection of my identity as a girl child raised by strong women, along with my life experiences as a single mother navigating through health challenges, has fueled my aspiration for higher education. This scholarship serves as a crucial steppingstone in my journey, enabling me to focus on my studies and prepare for a career dedicated to advocacy and cultural diplomacy. I am committed to using my education to empower myself and others, fostering a more inclusive world. Together, we can transform our collective experiences into a force for positive change, bridging divides and enriching the lives of those around us.”
John Wiggins II
Business Administration-Management
The Mayor Joe Delfino Scholarship
“This scholarship provides the financial relief needed to focus on my studies without compromising my family’s well-being. My education at The College of Westchester represents more than personal growth—it symbolizes my commitment to honoring the sacrifices of past generations while paving the way for future ones. I want my children to see what’s possible through hard work, perseverance, and education.”
Maria Amaya
Interactive Digital Media and Marketing, BS
The Radford Quesada Networking Scholarship
“I’m determined to work hard and take advantage of every chance that presents itself. In addition to providing me with financial support, this scholarship demonstrates that others see potential in me. With this help, I am confident that I can succeed and realize the goal I set for myself when I was fourteen years old, a goal that motivates me every day.”
Angelique Stewart
Human Services, BS
CWCF Shining Star
“My life experiences and background have introduced me to the value of resilience, empathy and adaptability, qualities that I will carry with me throughout my academic and life’s journey. Though I am still exploring my future career path, I am secure in the thought that higher education will open doors to many opportunities, giving me the chance to help others in Human Services. My experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and I look forward to what lies ahead as I continue to pursue my education.”
Ryan Reid
Business Administration, BBA
CWCF Shining Star
“Looking back on my elementary to high school years, I was lost, it’s like life started for me in my junior year when it hit me that I’ve been wasting so much time on people and things that wasn’t getting me anywhere. This alone is my “why” in life. This alone is “why” I graduated on time in high school. This alone is “why” I can confidently say that I finished my first semester of college with a 3.88 GPA. This is “why” I go way harder than ever because I devoted so much of my life to things that delivers nothing in return. I’m very happy and blessed to be who I am, a first generation, black male who overcame many adversities.”
Melissa Arias
Medical Assistant Management, AAS
CWCF Shining Star
“I am ready to finish what I started for my mother, my family, and most importantly for myself. I was not financially prepared to begin this journey and deciding whether returning to school was the right decision was not easy. But I can still hear my mother’s voice telling me I must do better. Now in my third semester I am doing amazing things, and I am truly proud of how far I have come.”
Barbara Domenech
Health Information Administration, AOS
CWCF Shining Star
“I am determined to move forward with my education, earn my degree, and prove my worth. My passion for healthcare has allowed me to focus on my education and personal growth. I take immense pride in helping others and providing positive support to my family and community. It fills my heart with joy to change someone’s day or outlook on health, especially when they may be confused. Receiving this scholarship alleviates the financial burden on my family and me, especially given the high cost of living. It will enable me to reach my goals with greater ease and less stress.”
Alyssa Fazio
Human Services, AS
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship
“A small, welcoming campus where everyone knows your name—and most importantly, your drive to succeed. The College of Westchester has been a beacon of support and encouragement, reigniting my passion for learning after my initial college experience left me uncertain about my academic goals. Here, I have found a community that believes in my potential and has inspired me to pursue my purpose of helping others. I have never encountered such a strong sense of fellowship as I have at The College of Westchester, and it motivates me to contribute meaningfully to this remarkable community.”
Shanike Duncanson Barker
Health Information Administration, AOS
CWCF Shining Star
“Reflecting on my journey, I am proud of the resilience and determination I have developed. This scholarship will not only support my educational goals but also empower me to create a better future for myself and my child. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and giving it back to my community. With education, I believe I can move mountains and positively impact my life and the lives of others.”
Sara Dragoj
Business Administration, BBA
CWCF Shining Star
“I often reflect on my career and the goals I want to accomplish in life because I want to give to others in the same way that others have given to me. I believe that we are all indebted to one another. I am in debt to my parents, who have struggled and spent many sleepless nights for me; to my dedicated teachers; to my friends; and to all the other people who make life vibrant and colorful. The only way I can repay these individuals is through hard work, dedication, and commitment to myself, while continuously learning from life’s lessons.”