Ardiana Gjelaj

BBA, Health Services Administration
Doris Metzger Miller Datakey Scholarship

“Achieving educational goals is not only important for my personal and professional development, but it also sets a positive example for my children. I aim to instill in them the value of lifelong learning and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. I hope to show them that dedication, hard work, and education can lead to personal fulfillment and professional success. By actively participating in discussions and engaging with professors, I believe I can foster a love for learning within them and help them understand the power of knowledge. I hope my pursuit of higher education will inspire them to set ambitious goals for themselves and embrace the endless possibilities that come with a solid education.”

Anea Benjamin

BBA, Health Services Administration
Doris Metzger Miller Datakey Scholarship

“Giving back to my community has always been in my heart and will serve as a compass. I have already spent countless hours mentoring underprivileged teenagers at the financial literacy program, empowering them with budgeting skills. As a scholarship recipient, not only am I so grateful, but I am also driven to excel academically, hone my skills, and become a well-rounded professional who uses my knowledge to empower others and make the business world a force for good.”

Taliyah Pemberton-Lorick

AAS, Medical Assistant Management
Jeanne Sutkowski Scholarship

“My commitment to academic excellence is thoroughly reflected in my 3.85 GPA. Additionally, my engagement in multiple clubs has not only enhanced my leadership skills but has also been a demonstration of my dedication to my extracurriculars. My personal journey has been a lesson in drive, patience, and persistence, qualities I believe to be integral to success. Education holds the utmost value in my life, and this scholarship serves as a crucial bridge, propelling me from one phase of life to the next. It is not just financial support; it is an investment in my unwavering pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.”

Oumou Diallo

AOS, Health Information Administration
Alumni Scholarship

“My journey is not merely a personal pursuit but a commitment to setting a positive example for my five children. As a parent, I am acutely aware of the influence that actions and choices hold, and I am resolute in demonstrating the value of education, determination, and resilience. I firmly believe that through the attainment of a degree, I can instill in them the importance of lifelong learning, hard work, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Earning a degree in health information management is not solely a personal achievement; it is a commitment to service and a testament to my dedication to improving the health and well-being of those in my community.”

Kellian Blake

BBA, Health Services Administration
Dr. William R. Papallo Scholarship

“I’m extremely passionate about healthcare because I genuinely want to have a positive impact on people’s lives and communities. I have always been fascinated with the complex mechanisms of the human body and the possibility of enhancing lives via efficient healthcare administration. My genuine commitment is to improving patient outcomes, making high-quality healthcare services more accessible, and promoting efficiency in healthcare facilities. This scholarship gives me the opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge, allowing me the opportunity to fulfill my goals in healthcare industry.”

Brian DeJesus

BBA, Health Services Administration
Webster Bank Scholarship

“I am pursuing my bachelor’s in healthcare administration while juggling two jobs and caring for a newborn baby boy who was born in August of 2023.  No matter what hardships I have been subjected to, I know now that I possess an unwavering commitment to bettering my life.  I continue to work hard every day while balancing work and home life.  I have been able to complete 2 successful semesters with over a 3.8 GPA.  This scholarship enables me to enhance the opportunities for me and my family.” 

Cathy Jones

AAS, Medical Assistant Management
Audiology Associates Westchester Scholarship

“My whole life I’ve never been on any dean’s list, but now I am a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member with a GPA of 3.80.  I’m shocked and so proud of how far I have come over the past 10 years since I’ve been in high school. It’s a big blessing to be able to go back to college and even though it’s pricey, and hard work I need to keep moving forward.  My dream job is working in pediatrics as a medical assistant then hopefully becoming a nurse in the pediatrics hospital. I know that it might take some time to land exactly where I want to be in the future, but I will get there.”

Obinna Ejianya

BS, Information Technology
John Nunes Technology Scholarship

“My desire to attend a college was rooted in a deep passion for information technology, and a desire to succeed in the evolving field. The College of Westchester was a great choice because of it’s commendable history, respectable faculty, and dedication to promoting an engaging and intellectual environment. It stood out as an ideal college to nurture my ambitions, and push me towards a successful career in information technology. I’m eager to contribute and grow as a skilled IT professional, and this scholarship allows me to do just that.”

Abdourahman Mbye

BS, Computer Information Systems
Radford Quesada Networking Scholarship

“This scholarship can open doors to amazing educational opportunities that might otherwise be out of my reach. It will also help my overall academic and professional growth because scholarships like this are like a boost of motivation for me to do more without worrying about any financial hardship. I believe in my potential to reach my educational goals if only I have the means of full financial support and therefore, investing in my education is currently my only priority. This kind of motivation will create a cycle where my success will lead to more chances and achievements.”

Nidera McCallum

BBA, Health Services Administration
CWCF Shining Star

“I have performed well in my studies at CW  and have received several honors including Phi Theta Kappa.  I have shown years of perseverance and dedication to continue my academic journey and this scholarship will help relieve so much anticipated stress of paying for college.  I have overcome so many hardships and challenges and I gained strength to not give up on myself or my goals no matter what.”

Sharlyn Gomez

BBA, Accounting
CWCF Shining Star

“My subject of study is an homage to my mother, not just a professional route. My mother, who is my biggest source of inspiration, has taught me the value of giving back and elevating people with education. This scholarship is a recognition of the tenacity that was ingrained in me and a tribute to the selflessness of a mother who sacrificed her everything to enable her child to have unbounded dreams. My story is about more than just a thirst for knowledge or becoming oneself.  It’s a story laced with resiliency, selflessness, and an underlying vow to honor the sacrifices made in my name.”

Bancroft Grant

AS, Human Services
CWCF Shining Star

“I decided to take the plunge and enroll at The College of Westchester. I have not been disappointed, as my experiences have been incredible, and I am comfortable in the environment. I am pursuing an associate degree in human services, as this scholarship will equip me to advance my career at the hospital or in another organization. I am learning a lot, both academically and personally. It is challenging to be balancing school life with personal life, but I am adapting.  As an adult learner who was out of the school system for a long time, I appreciate the attention.”

Kerly Loja Toledo

BBA, Accounting
CWCF Shining Star

“One day I want to be able to help people like me. Kids who had to leave their friends and family behind for a journey to find a better life. My dream is to help those in need, people who have to choose between food or school. A choice that no one should ever encounter.  One day I want to be able to create a non-profit company whose main priority will be helping immigrants with dreams like me. I want to be able to give back to the community and to my people. To create opportunities, such as the opportunity this scholarship is providing me.”

Paula Lebron

BBA, Health Services Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

“Achieving my associate degree gave me the encouragement to continue with my education and I am now pursuing my BBA in Health Services Administration.  It has been a struggle financially, but I tried my best to push further in achieving my education.  Being the mother of three beautiful girls, I knew that I wanted to show them and prove to them that as women we can make it to the end and achieve anything we put our minds too no matter what life throws at us.  Becoming a mother and finding myself raising them alone was a struggle within itself but I chose to turn it around to my advantage and this scholarship is enabling to complete my journey.”   

Anissa Johnson

BS, Information Technology
John Nunes Technology Scholarship

After Anissa graduates, she plans to pursue a career in cyber security. Anissa says of CW, “The support here at CW has established a new sense of confidence in me. It no longer feels like a dream. It seems more attainable now than ever.”

Cindy M. Lopez

BBA, Healthcare Services Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

When Cindy graduates from CW with her Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Services Administration, she hopes to advance in her current position serving the uninsured population at her organization.

Cindy says of CW, “it’s a school that has flexible hours and a great support system.  You can reach out to all different people and there is always a helping hand. No matter what point I am at in my life, CW is always there to advance and meet my needs and goals. This also makes my parents, family, and friends proud of my accomplishments ”

Kimberly Lopez

BBA, Healthcare Services Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

Kimberly is looking to work in a long-term care facility, hospital, or an insurance company after she graduates CW, with the ambition of becoming a manager one day. Her educational goal is to obtain a Ph.D.

Kimberly says that CW will help her attain her goals with the knowledge she has obtained with the background experience and information shared by the professors. Kimberly received her Associate’s degree in Medical Assistant Management in 2022, which helped her gain clinical experience in the administration aspect of the healthcare field. She is now prepared to carefully make decisions both from a patient’s and an organization’s viewpoint. Throughout the three years of attending college, Kimberly says she has “learned how to properly format research papers and case studies; my writing skills have improved and I’ve learned how to successfully work in teams.”

Lizbeth Encarnacion

BBA, Healthcare Services Administration
Jeanne B. Sutkowski Scholarship

Lizbeth plans to pursue a job in some type of business management/administration, after she graduates CW. After Lizbeth lands the job she wants, she will go back to school to obtain her Master’s degree. Lizbeth says, “CW will help me attain these goals through internships and their career services center, where they help students with their resumes and assist students with getting jobs after they graduate.”

Olivia Smith

AAS, Medical Assistant Management
Alumni Scholarship

Olivia’s main goal after she graduates CW is to go to nursing school. The College of Westchester helped Olivia gain knowledge, skills and experience. CW also helped her in her career path. On top of that, she gained additional skills in communication and problem solving, which helped her to achieve her goals and helped Olivia increase her confidence.

Shaneika McKenzie

BBA, Business Administration
William R. Pappallo Scholarship

Shaneika says, “as a person who has limited access to certain opportunities, The College of Westchester and its Foundation have already helped me with this amazing and generous gift to help push me further and nearer to graduation.” CW has given Shaneika so much hope that she believes no matter what she has or doesn’t have, it is possible to win. No matter how terrible or rough life gets, Shaneika will always push through and “rise up like a phoenix from the ashes.”

Shawn Ofurhie

BS, Interactive Digital Media & Marketing
Kenneth R. Theobalds Scholarship

Shawn’s goal after graduating CW is to become a mogul and establish generational wealth, while making a positive impact in the universe we all share. One thing CW has given Shawn is the opportunity to find that confidence inside him to be a leader no matter where he is. “Fear is a mighty companion, but you should be its master instead of letting it control you, so you can soar as high as the sky.”

Luana Araya

AAS, Business Administration Management/Marketing
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

Luana’s goal after she graduates The College of Westchester is to retain all the information that she has learned and to apply it to the career path that she wants to be in which is either owning her own salon, or creating her own cosmetic company.

Gianna Hamilton

BBA, Business Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

After graduation, Gianni plans to obtain a job in her field and start on her master’s degree. CW has helped Gianni by providing an affordable program that puts her on the right track to succeed.  

Jaren Hatcher

AAS, Computer Network Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

Jaren feels like he has it in him to succeed and be a leader.  With the resources the college provides, Jaren believe anything is possible and that he is capable of achieving his goals. 

Destiny Crooks

BBA, Business Administration
The Mayor Joseph Delfino Scholarship

After graduating from CW, Destiny plans on working with a successful company that aligns with her long-term goals and/or pursue a Master’s degree in business or accounting.  Destiny says, “I see myself growing my knowledge with the help of the CW staff and all the support they continuously offer.”  She is beyond determined to learn more and make a great life for herself.

Kenneth Ferron

AAS, Computer Network Administration
Radford Quesada Networking Scholarship

As an immigrant from Jamaica and father of two young boys, Kenny’s greatest motivation is to set an example to them that with hard work and dedication, their possibilities are endless. After earning his degree, Kenny’s goal is to start his own business so that he has the opportunity to help bridge the unemployment gap in minority communities. With CW’s help, Kenny will soon have all of the necessary tools to accomplish this goal.

Ricardo De Jesus Jr.

BS, Interactive Digital Media and Marketing
Webster Bank Scholarship

After Ricardo graduate, he wants to use his knowledge of graphic design and marketing to work as a Digital Designer for Madison Square Garden. Ricardo hopes to use his connections from CW, his experience and what he learned to help make this a reality.

Angelita Lopez

BBA, Health Services Administration
CWCF Shining Star Scholarship

Angelita’s goal is to land her dream career helping the elderly get the assistance they require in a simple way where they are not confused or misled. The other side of Angelita’s dream career is to work in a facility where youths can come for Mental Health issues and feel comfortable to talk and not feel judged. Angelita wants to help individuals feel positive about themselves, and CW is helping her attain these goals by instilling the knowledge that is needed to succeed.  CW has a great team that does not give up on her and keeps encouraging Angelita so she can fulfill her dreams to graduate and receive her bachelor’s.

Lila Kirilla

Entergy Powers Diversity Scholarship
BBA, Business Administration

“Waking up every day in fear of not being able to pay for the next month’s tuition is not a pleasant feeling, but dropping out is not an option. I came a long way since January 2019, and I am here to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration. I am proud of myself and I want to make my family proud too.”

Jessica Pinos

Doris Metzger Miller Datakey Scholarship
AAS, Business Management/Marketing Online

“I am extremely happy to be back in school and to be a little closer to getting my degree. I look forward to using my skills in my everyday life. Another reason why finishing school is crucial for me is that I want to set a good example for my children; I would like them to complete their college education one day. I always tell my kids how important it is to learn and to finish school but sometimes they reply “but you didn’t finish school” but now they will see first-hand that no matter what obstacles come your way, one must always persevere and keep working towards your goal. ”

Jose Alvarez

John Nunes Technology Scholarship
BS, Interactive Digital Marketing and Media

“After being here I came to realize that it did not really matter how big or small a college is, in fact I prefer a smaller college due to the single fact that CW has a supportive community. This college has been great to me and I’ve learned so much from attending. My focus is anything art related and I’ve been learning things that I normally would not learn anywhere else and it is definitely helping to build my career as an artist in the future. I want to keep learning more so that I can achieve my lifetime dream of creating my own graphic novel/webcomic.

I truly do love the fact that my major also includes marketing since it’s very important when advertising one’s products. I’ve attended CW for about two years now and I know there’s still more to learn. I want to continue to grow so that I can use the knowledge I obtain here to benefit others and myself.”

Danaya Sharp

Sterling National Bank Scholarship
BBA, Business Administration

“This scholarship will further my education. I had an amazing experience learning remote for the first time. I am very pleased and grateful for what I did learn from my professors. After obtaining my degree in Business Administration, I plan to own my own business. The professors have taught me all the skills that I need to know as a business owner. ”

Lillian Ferreira

Mayor Joseph Delfino Scholarship
BBA, Business Administration – Management Online

“I already feel blessed to be the first one in my family to have graduated from college with an associate’s degree. The knowledge that I have received will always provide me with an abundance of crucial resources that have and will continue to assist me in all aspects of life. In fact, education is so important to me that not only have I decided to return to college to attain my bachelor’s degree.

Education provides us with knowledge about the world around us. It helps us to understand, to be tolerant, to have opinions, and to improve our mindset and our lives. While I have faced hardships, I know that those are only temporary roadblocks. The education that I am receiving is invaluable. There is no amount of monetary value that can be placed on my education, nor can it be taken away from me.”

Rosana Escoto

Dr. William R. Papallo Scholarship
BBA, Business Administration

“I am no longer just dreaming about having a college degree; I am working on one. I am no longer limited to a life that is just okay, I have new plans and goals. I do not spend most of my free time on social media and TV. I am learning, expanding my knowledge in many subjects from Finances to Adult Development, from Technology to Business Writing and these are all pieces of a puzzle that is getting me closer to a better quality of life. Each day my confidence grows, each day I better my chances to get a job that I desire and not just a job that pays the bills. Every new skill I learn makes me proud and is another step towards the life I want. When we decide to do something different with our lives, we impact those around us. I want to be perceived as a victorious, hardworking and resilient woman. This scholarship will keep me moving forward with pride and encouragement.”

Caitlin Feliciano

Jeanne Sutkowski Scholarship
AAS, Medical Assistant Management

“Assisting in caregiving has always been my goal from childhood; this is because of the partiality of the healthcare system that pays little attention to the less fortunate. I have always wanted to improve the quality of life for everyone and be a stepping-stone for other unfortunate souls. Securing this scholarship will be a huge step towards the pursuit of these career dreams. Besides, with the help of the scholarship, I can assist others in the access of healthcare through several programs that I am planning to initiate at the community level. Once I am qualified, and with a secured career, I am planning on founding an organization which will assist people with special healthcare needs and those from marginalized demographics. I am confident that with the help of the scholarship, my future aspiration of helping others will be met.”

Nyah Pineda

Radford Quesada Scholarship
BS, Interactive Digital Media and Marketing

“I am in my second year and I feel like I’ve learned so much. While this year has been very hard, I continue to work hard. This scholarship would be one tremendous step towards being where I want to be in life when it comes to my career. This would open new doors for me and my educational goals. The scholarship would also allow me to continue at The College of Westchester and allow me to continue to use the great resources they provide there. As far as my classes if I do not understand something there is always someone I can talk to or go to for advice. I feel that this college was the right choice for me because it provides me with assurance that my education and time is not going to waste. I get to have first-hand experiences with professors that have been in the industry that I am looking forward to working in and they provide me with the necessary tools. But most importantly, CW has taught me to work hard, never give up and stay CW Strong!”

Olivia Fleck

Entergy Powers Diversity Scholarship
BS, Interactive Digital Media and Marketing
Phi Theta Kappa

“The College of Westchester has been able to help me move into a field where I see myself working in for a long time and has helped me grow as an individual. This scholarship will help me in getting to the finish line of receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Interactive Digital Media and Marketing.”

Kerian Adams

Doris Metzger Miller Datakey Scholarship
AAS, Health Information Management
Phi Theta Kappa

“As a teenager and then a young adult, it wasn’t always clear which path I should take. I decided to attend The College of Westchester to bring an end to my meandering and attend an institution where the office staff, faculty and advisors are student focused and very personal. They constantly encouraged me from the registration process through orientation.

The support I received from day one has made the greatest impression on me. I am so happy to have found passion and look forward to going on to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management.”

Vishal Paryag

John Nunes Technology Scholarship
BS, Information Technology
Sigma Beta Delta

“Since I was about five or six years old, I used to program TV remotes for my family. My grandpa used to fix and tinker with electronics. I think that may have been something that rubbed off on me as I found myself doing the same as I got older. So a major in IT seemed fitting for me. The beautiful thing about being an IT major is the various paths one can take such as networking, programming, cybersecurity, etc. Whichever path one decides to focus on, he or she can still change the way the world works, and I look forward to changing the world.”

Joseph Gonzalez

Sterling National Bank Scholarship
BBA, Accounting
Phi Theta Kappa • Sigma Beta Delta • i3 Scholar

“Numbers have always been in my life. It was this passion for numbers and complicated math that led me to CW’s Accounting program. My accounting degree will give me financial literacy and open doors to business opportunities. This scholarship will aid me in my future to make better business and economic decisions, not only for myself but for those around me and for those in my community, just as my father wished.”

Zyh’Ana Moody

Mayor Joseph Delfino Scholarship
BBA, Accounting

“One of my main goals is to travel the world, which is the reason why I want to become an international accountant, so I can help people all around the world in addition to my community. I feel like using your knowledge to help the people around you succeed is a beautiful thing, I mean we all want to reach the American Dream one day. Being that I’m the first out of my family to go to college, I feel like I have a purpose in this world, a task that I have to fulfill and I won’t give up until I cross that stage.”

Erika Labanda

Dr. William R. Papallo Scholarship
BBA, Accounting

“After obtaining my associate’s degree from CW, I held a great job for 9 years that allowed me to provide for my family. However, I knew I always wanted more. After 6 years, I finally decided to inquire about CW’s Bachelor’s program. I also decided to ask a wise professor at CW for his opinion and thoughts on what major to pursue because I was undecided between business and accounting. I am incredibly thankful to the professor for providing me with his professional feedback. Returning to school was the best thing I could do for myself as I know this is an investment in myself that will pay off. I am a proud CW student and can’t wait to see what great things I will accomplish after completing the accounting program.”

Chantal Dawkins

Jeanne Sutkowski Scholarship
BBA, Healthcare Services Administration
Sigma Beta Delta

“I chose my major, Health Services Administration, to make money. While I am passionate about helping others, I must be able to help myself first. Right now I am focused on me, getting to my goal of graduation with my bachelor’s and having financial stability. This is so important to me because of all I endured in my life. When I made the decision to go back to school, The College of Westchester was the only one to reach out to me to answer my questions, and I am so thankful. This scholarship will help me reach my educational goals by allowing me not to stress too much about my loan debt. I will also be able to start focusing on my future instead of the past and what I did not have.”

Kevin Santiago

Radford Quesada Scholarship
BS, Interactive Digital Media and Marketing
Phi Theta Kappa
Sigma Beta Delta

“When I had first started The College of Westchester back in 2009, the major was different. I had originally started with pursuing an associate’s degree in the Digital Media field. Now, it’s evolved into a media marketing type degree once they introduced the bachelor’s portion of it. From the original date up until this point, I chose digital media simply because I loved creating. Walt Disney was probably the one who changed me the most in terms of my art and what I would set out to do. And of course, my son. Everything I ever create and do is for him.

Receiving this scholarship will help tremendously in helping me focus on my educational goals and putting less of a financial strain on my family. Thank you for helping to make it all possible.”