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  • Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program

    Annual Fellowship Application Deadline: February 15

  • Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program

    Annual Fellowship Application Deadline: February 15

Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program

SUNY Plattsburgh’s Graduate Diversity Fellowship Program provides full or partial tuition funding for new graduate students who have overcome a disadvantage to success in higher education and successfully demonstrate through their application that they will contribute to the diversity of their field of study.

Fellowship funds are determined by the campus and are based on annual funding available from New York state. Recipients receive a credit to their college account, and any funds in excess of college charges may be used for other educational expenses, including books and supplies, room, meals, personal and transportation.

*These awards are subject to changes annually based on funding levels from the State of New York.

Diversity Fellowship Recipients

Meet our current diversity fellowship recipients and learn about what receiving this award means to them.

Ruby Samim

“I’m passionate about pursuing a career in therapy, and I wanted a program that would challenge me while also giving me real-world experience working with people. This program felt aligned with both my professional goals and personal values.

“I am entering the field of social work, with the intention of becoming a therapist, because I find it rewarding to support people in understanding themselves and navigating difficult experiences. I’m especially drawn to the idea of creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and safe. Being able to help someone make sense of their emotions and grow from them is something I find deeply meaningful.”

Gianna Mandera

“Social work is rewarding because I will have the opportunity to use my degree to help others in MANY different ways; whether it’s children who are dealing with poverty and abuse, or a low-income community that lacks resources, I know I can use my knowledge for the better. And that is what makes it so rewarding, knowing I am using my education to help benefit others, especially underprivileged or underrepresented groups.

“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because I know they have the ability to transform me into a successful social worker! With the help of intelligent professors, interesting coursework, and classmates in an online platform, I have different resources available that can aid me to success.”

Nell (Jenelle) Holton

“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of its strong commitment to social justice, community engagement and accessible education. The program has helped me grow both personally and professionally, and it has prepared me to pursue clinical social work and behavioral health practice while advocating for equity, inclusion and compassionate care. I am excited to continue growing as a social worker through the M.S.W. program and my behavioral health internship experience. My long-term goal is to work in clinical behavioral health while continuing to advocate for children, families, and individuals with disabilities and diverse needs.

“I believe relationships, compassion and advocacy can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I find it rewarding to support children and families, help individuals feel understood and empowered, and create spaces where people feel safe, valued and accepted.”

Angie Calero

“I’d never been so far upstate and had no idea what to expect — however, I loved the area and the people in it! From the moment I arrived, I was shown kindness by the school psychology faculty who were clearly passionate about their research and eager to educate their students.

“What I find incredibly rewarding about this field is that it helps children grow socially and academically, and creates a healthy and sound foundation for a child’s future — and see them smile. I love helping others, and would love to ensure that all children receive the services they need. I know that with this program, its staff and my bilingual abilities, I will become a school psychologist that will build bridges for many students and families in N.Y.S.”

Amani Deloatch

“SUNY Plattsburgh was one of the few schools in N.Y.S. that offered a full-time online M.S.W. program. This was important to me as a student that has to work full-time while pursuing a graduate degree. I also felt very supported by the graduate admission staff during the admission process; they ensured I understood what financial opportunities were available to me through the university and N.Y.S. I felt confident that if I was supported at that level without officially committing to the university that I would be even more supported as a student.

“What I find most rewarding about my field is the ability to assist clients as they navigate complex societal systems. I love to be of help in any capacity, whether its spending time at DSS to fill out complicated paperwork, submitting referrals to community organizations, transporting clients or simply being a listening ear. I am most rewarded in my work when my clients needs are met.”

Sarah Dauenhauer

“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of its strong sense of community, the supportive environment, and the many opportunities available to students. From the moment I connected with the campus, it was clear that Plattsburgh invests in its students and provides the resources needed to grow both personally and professionally.

“My own experiences navigating complex systems have shaped my passion for supporting others as they navigate theirs. I genuinely love helping people and making a meaningful difference in their lives. I’m also deeply driven by a commitment to challenge injustice, and I’ve never been someone who can simply accept the “norm” when it harms or excludes others. As time passes and opportunities arise, I realize more and more that I made the right choice to pursue social work.”

Paige Schultz

“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh for several reasons, including the amazing faculty, reputable program and the friendliness of the staff.

“The most rewarding part of my future career is the ability to make real change on a psychobiological level through therapeutic techniques. It’s a life-changing career, for the patient and for myself.”

 

 

 

Past Recipients

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