Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program

• How to Apply

  Review the eligibility criteria below to determine if your qualifications are a match for this fellowship. Complete the SUNY Plattsburgh Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program Application and an application for admission to a SUNY Plattsburgh graduate program by the annual deadline of February 15. NOTE: This deadline is firm. Applications that are not complete will not be considered.

  Applications for the 2026–27 Diversity Fellowship Program will be accepted until February 15, 2026. The 2025–26 Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program is closed.

  Apply Now for Diversity Fellowship

• Eligibility

  The Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program (GDFP) is open to any and all prospective candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, or sex, and is consistent with all current governing federal and state nondiscrimination law. All application submissions will be assessed and evaluated in accordance with the required eligibility criteria.

  Applicants to the SUNY Plattsburgh Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program must meet the following required criteria:

  • Be U.S. citizens or have permanent resident status
  • Demonstrate how they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education
  • Demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the diversity of the student body by facilitating and enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in their academic programs and/or campus activities.
  • Be a newly applying full-time graduate student to a master’s or certificate of advanced study degree program at SUNY Plattsburgh
  • Complete an application for graduate admission and the Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program application by the February 15 deadline

  Even though financial need is not a requirement for program eligibility, applicants may utilize economic disadvantage as a basis for eligibility.

  Preference will be given to candidates who are:

  • From a low-income background (e.g., Pell-eligible as undergraduates)
  • First-generation college students (students whose parents have not earned a bachelor’s degree)
  • AmeriCorps alumni
  • Veterans
  • Able to demonstrate how they have overcome adversity
• Selection & Notification

  Selection will be made by the Diversity Fellowship Committee and based on the eligibility requirements described above, quality of prior academic record, and financial need (as reflected in a FAFSA or copy of most recent income tax statement).

  Announcements of awardees will take place in April after the review committee has had the opportunity to review each candidate and make their recommendations. Selected award recipients will be notified via email and will be given a deadline by which they need to accept or decline the award. If a selected recipient declines their award, it will be given to the next runner up as determined by the review committee.

Past Recipients

• 2024–2025

  Fredrica “Freddy” Appau-Wimette

  • Major: Data Analytics, M.S.
  • Hometown: Far Rockaway, N.Y.

  Fredrica “Freddy” Appau Wemette is a proud alumni of SUNY Plattsburgh, where she was once a part of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). During her time at Plattsburgh, Freddy grew into her role as a leader, especially through her work with residential life. This experience not only allowed her to refine her leadership skills but also helped her discover her passion for guiding others.

  After graduating, Freddy ventured into the world to gain real-life experience. However, her curiosity and drive for learning led her back to academia, where she is now pursuing her master’s in data analytics. Freddy has always been fascinated by trends and enjoys analyzing data to uncover patterns and tell a compelling story. Although she knows the journey ahead will be challenging, she’s eager to embrace it, inspired by the values of education and self-worth that her parents instilled in her. Freddy’s unique experiences and strong foundation have shaped her into the determined and insightful person she is today.

  Kaela DeLeon

  • Major: Childhood/Special Education B.S./M.S.Ed.
  • Hometown: Bronx, N.Y.

  “I chose SUNY Plattsburgh for its exceptional program, which has offered a wealth of experience and support. The faculty and resources provided here have been instrumental in shaping my academic journey. I am excited about the opportunities this program affords me, and I look forward to completing my master's degree with the skills and knowledge I've gained and continue to gain.”

  Angelique Hall

  • Major: Data Analytics, M.S.
  • Hometown: Beacon, N.Y.

  “Words cannot express how appreciative and grateful I am to be chosen as a recipient of the Graduate Diversity Fellowship. There aren’t enough words to describe how I feel about this great honor and achievement. As a first-generation Black student from a Caribbean household, this award has shown me that Plattsburgh believes that my potential is great, I am valued, and I have a trustworthy support system backing me up. This opportunity will not only allow me to be the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree, but it will also allow me to grow as a businesswoman with the knowledge of in-demand skills that data analytics brings. As a young woman who has struggled with mental health, it was important for me to realize that there is good in life and to appreciate the small wins when they come along. Well, this is a huge win to celebrate! I am extremely excited to bring diversity to my field as a Black queer woman and showcase to my communities that it is possible to do anything you put your mind to.”

  Robert Henn

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.S.
  • Hometown: Shirley, N.Y.

  “Earning a fellowship of this caliber would not only ease my fears of financial uncertainty, but will also allow me to focus solely on obtaining my graduate degree and obtaining it successfully. It would be a tremendous help to know that my family and I have financial support, and it would mean to the world to me to finally witness my mother and father not have to worry about financing my collegiate education.”

  Amanda Linares

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
  • Hometown: Bronx, N.Y.

  “I was born in the Dominican Republic but moved to the Bronx, NY in 2009 in hopes of more opportunities. My experience has allowed me to gain an understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who have and/or are adjusting to cultural norms and language barriers in a new environment. I believe that mental health services should be accessible, inclusive, and sensitive to the different needs of BIPOC communities. This made me inclined to pursue a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to work with underrepresented communities and break the stigma that there is around mental health.

  After having done my undergraduate studies at SUNY Plattsburgh, the sense of familiarity, internship opportunities, and the small community that there is, which allows me to connect more with those around me, motivated me to continue my studies here. Receiving this award is such an honor. Being a first-generation student, this award is helping me break the cycle of limited educational opportunities within my family. It serves as evidence of the power of education and provides validation in overcoming the barriers that I have in my educational journey. This support will allow me to continue to pursue my passion for clinical mental health counseling without the added stress of financial instability, that way I can place more focus on my academic and professional development.”

• 2023–2024

  Aneesha Baloch

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
  • Hometown: Halfmoon, N.Y.

  “When receiving the award, the word grateful was not merely enough to describe how I felt. More, I am appreciative and honored to receive such an award. Not only did this award allow me to avoid taking out loans leading to debt, but it also brings me one step closer to my goals. As a Pakistani Muslim that comes from a culture where mental health is looked down upon, this award will help to further my education. In allowing me to not only help different clientele but, especially to those similar within my community along with a similar religious background. It truly is an honor once again and I cannot wait to start my graduate studies in the upcoming fall. Not only am I looking forward to expanding my knowledge and skills, but also forming connections with both faculty and other pupils.”

  Jonathan Gomez

  • Major: Adolescence Education M.S.T. (Math)
  • Hometown: Morrisonville, N.Y.

  “I cannot find the words to express my gratitude for the scholarship you have awarded me. I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition and the support you have given me towards my education.

  “This scholarship means that I can continue to pursue my dreams and aspirations without worrying too much about financial struggles. Your generosity has lifted a significant burden and I am grateful for this opportunity. The opportunity you have given me is more than the financial value of this scholarship. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication that I have put into my studies. You have recognized my efforts and have validated my determination, which is invaluable to me. Being told as a child that I would not make it simply because of my diversity, my environment, and my parents not making it hindered me — but I did not let it stop me. I used all that hate to fuel my drive and succeed in what I am doing. Once again, I am truly blessed to have received this scholarship, and I cannot thank you enough. I promise to work hard towards my goals and make the most of the opportunity you have given me.”

  Jerry Jean-Baptiste

  • Major: Speech-Language Pathology M.A.
  • Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.

  “It is an honor and privilege to receive the graduate diversity fellowship. As a first-generation college student that migrated from Haiti to the United States in 2010, pursuing my master’s degree is a big deal and means a lot to me. My younger self would be so proud of how far I’ve come along and everything I have accomplished.

  “Receiving this fellowship is a testament to the hard work and dedication I have put into my education to get to this point. This fellowship is a testament to the person I inspire to become. To me that is becoming a speech-language pathologist. I will be entering a field where less than 4% of the licensed professionals are Black/African-American and less than 4% are males. I hope to make a difference in this field by increasing that 4%. Speech-language pathology is a field that serves all populations from various races and ethnicities and we need more licensed professionals to reflect the overall population we serve. I inspire to be an advocate for underrepresented individuals/communities and in the field in general.

  “This fellowship is an investment in my future that will not go unnoticed. I would also like to say thank you to my family, friends, faculty, and staff that have helped me reach this point in my life. It really does take a village as I could have not done it without all the help and support. I am eternally grateful.”

  Saran Kaba

  • Major: Speech-Language Pathology M.A.
  • Hometown: Bronx, N.Y.

  “Receiving a diversity fellowship award is a significant honor for me. This award not only recognizes my academic achievements and potential, but also acknowledges my commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in my field of speech-language pathology. As a member of an underrepresented group, this award is particularly meaningful to me, as it provides both financial support and validation of my experiences and perspectives. With this fellowship, I am excited to continue my education and contribute to the diversity of ideas and perspectives in my field. I am grateful for this opportunity and will strive to make the most of it by working hard and giving back to my community.”

  Malina Lawrence

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
  • Hometown: Willsboro, N.Y.

  “I am extremely grateful to be awarded the diversity fellowship. At a young age, I learned to be independent, establish a strong work ethic and strive for financial stability on my own. It is important to me to further my education and obtain my master’s in clinical mental health counseling. The diversity fellowship will help me immensely as I achieve my personal and professional goals. Personally, I struggled with both mental health and substance use throughout my life. This field often sees dual diagnosed individuals. I am thankful that I now have the opportunity to help people that may struggle with the same issues I did. I will be the first one in my family to obtain a master’s degree. This is both an extraordinary opportunity and gift for me.”

  Arlene Paez

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
  • Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.

  “Receiving the diversity fellowship has been an honor and a blessing. It has allowed me to be the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree and be able to give back to my community in the capacity that I aspire. As a first generation student this award makes me feel valued and supported by relieving some of the financial burden of earning a master’s. As a young mother it is extremely important to me to be a role model and show that with faith, hard work and dedication anything is possible. My dream of becoming a clinical mental health counselor has become a reality and I couldn’t be more grateful. I am excited to bring diversity in my field and change the perspective of mental health in the Latinx community. Nothing is more rewarding to me than helping others reach their fullest potential and I will forever be grateful for this opportunity.”

  Fatoumata Toure

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
  • Hometown: Queens, N.Y.

  “I want to start by saying Alhamdulillah! (Praise be to God)

  “Receiving the fellowship and diversity award means the world to me. There aren’t enough words to express how grateful I am. During the process of applying for this award, I doubted myself; but, every time I feel like I am not enough, Plattsburgh proves me wrong. I want to thank my community at Plattsburgh for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Thank you, Plattsburgh for taking a chance on me and allowing me to be someone big and successful one day.

  “Receiving this award shows me that I am seen, heard and accepted. Coming from an African Muslim household with two parents who have no background in education, you’re never really looked at so this means a lot to me. Plattsburgh has shown me that my skin color, my religion, or my status does not define my success. They have continuously shown me that anyone is worthy of being invested in no matter who you are. Completing my undergrad in psychology at Plattsburgh was an honor and now I am even more grateful to be able to obtain my master’s from Plattsburgh. Again, I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and to every SINGLE person who invested in me and my education no matter how big or small, just know when I become successful, you will be the reason why. Thank you!”

• 2022–2023

  Farida Abdoulkader

  • Major: Data Analytics M.S.
  • Hometown: Manhattan, N.Y.

  “Receiving the Diversity Fellowship means that as a Muslim black girl from NYC I get the same opportunities as everyone else. Completing undergraduate studies at SUNY Plattsburgh allowed me to learn so much and meet a diverse group of people. I have always gravitated to the business aspect of things, and now that I have earned my degree in business administration with a minor in marketing, I believe that there is still more for me to learn. Being able to continue my education here at SUNY Plattsburgh is a huge honor because SUNY Plattsburgh sees what I’m capable of. I want to earn my master’s in data analytics so that I can be as marketable as possible and won’t be just another name on a resume. I always like to say it’s not what you go through that molds who you are, but what you do afterwards that does.”

  
  

  Quinn Kelley

  • Major: Adolescence Education M.S.T.
  • Hometown: Delhi, N.Y.

  “Receiving the Diversity Fellowship and even attending graduate school is an honor and a privilege. This fellowship is giving me the opportunity to attend graduate school without taking out excessive loans, and that will give me an incredible head start. It means the world to me to be able to continue my education to become a teacher, and the support that I’m receiving from this fellowship is what makes it possible. I am excited to pursue my dream career and become a queer educator so that I can help LGBTQ+ students pursue their dreams. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and thrilled to have the opportunity to continue my education.”

  Michelle Peterson

  • Major: Speech-Language Pathology M.A.
  • Hometown: Trumansburg, N.Y.

  “Gratitude doesn’t even begin to explain how I felt when I learned I was accepted for the fellowship.

  I think diversity is difficult to define because we are constantly growing through new experiences as individuals, and learning from those around us. The definition is almost always evolving. Everyone’s perspectives, abilities, hopes, etc., are all diverse as a result of our own experiences and that is something that has always excited me. I am proud to be a part of its many defining features.

  I've found that strengthening and prioritizing diversity with all of its moving parts has been the catalyst in what has made me who I am, and how I define my own success. It is the very reason I continue to prioritize working alongside diverse populations everywhere.

  To finally have recognition for something I am passionate about and worked toward for many years is seriously a dream come true. Knowing that I am finally able to have a secure place in higher education is a new, incredible feeling to me, and for all of this I am eternally grateful.

  I want to thank my family for pushing me thus far and always believing in me, my dear friends for continuing to lift me up, and lastly my community for teaching me I am worthy of so much more.”

  Carole Y. Prevost

  • Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Hometown: Montreal, Quebec

  “I am honoured and grateful to be an awardee of the Diversity Fellowship. It has been a long-time dream of mine to be in the clinical mental health field and I am excited to be given the opportunity to pursue that dream at this stage of my life. My experience of diversity has provided me with opportunities to learn and grow as a woman, shaping me into the individual that I am today. I hope to inspire others to believe in themselves and to know that pursuing a dream is but a decision away.”

  Sherina Martin

  • Major: Fitness & Wellness Leadership M.S.
  • Hometown: Watertown, N.Y.

  “Receiving the Diversity Fellowship award is a tremendous blessing on my life! My program offers an internship option that I once felt I would have to forgo. The assistance of this fellowship has opened up the opportunity for me to participate in an internship to bolster, supplement, and apply the knowledge I am receiving through coursework from the great instructors here at SUNY Plattsburgh. I look forward to the connections I will make and the wisdom I will gain from this experience, thus aiding my research endeavors in the future. This award has not only eased the financial burden of higher education but has greatly affirmed to me that I am on the right path in my health and wellness career.”