SUFFOLK, N.Y.–Suffolk Federal recently presented $1,500 college scholarships to ten local high-school seniors, while also providing support for Paws of War.
With the scholarships, one student, Emily Potter of Medford received an additional $2,500 scholarship provided by the LT Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation, which was matched by Suffolk Federal along with a $1,000 scholarship provided by the New York Credit Union Association. Recipients are judged based upon their academic achievements, extracurricular and community activities as well as the quality of written essays.
At right, from left, Frank C. Trotta, Vice Chairman, Suffolk Federal Board of Directors; Ralph D. Spencer Jr., President & CEO, Suffolk Federal; Kristen Monten of Commack; Isabel Peters of Sag Harbor; Walter Westhoff, Jr. of Islip Terrace; Emily Potter of Medford; Kaitlyn Conner of Farmingville; Amy Li Berninger of Mattituck; Edwin J. Ward IV of Southold; Melissa Manzello of Shoreham; Andrew Tamis of St. James; Robert Kruszeski of Southold; James J. Maggio, Jr., Chairman, Suffolk Federal Board of Directors and Daniel Murphy, Gold Star father of United States Navy SEAL LT Michael P. Murphy and Suffolk Federal Supervisory Committee
“Having the opportunity to support our local high school seniors by providing them financial assistance as they start their new journey is so important," said Ralph D. Spencer Jr., president & CEO of Suffolk Federal. "Paying for college is stressful enough. We’re happy to know that the scholarships awarded by Suffolk Federal help to alleviate some of that burden so these students can focus on their educational goals."
Separately, Suffolk FCU said that as part in an effort to support the charitable work of local organizations that serve the areas of Suffolk Federal branch locations, the credit union has identified nonprofits to provide financial support.
In Commack, Branch Manager Gail DiGiacomo presented a $500 contribution each to both Paws of War in Nesconset and Fountainhead Congregation in East Northport.
“Knowing that we can make even a small difference in the lives of our local veterans is truly rewarding,” said DiGiacomo. “What these service dogs provide to our veterans is quite incredible—they are trained to provide support throughout the healing process to veterans who suffer from PTSD. The credit union is committed to supporting causes that support veterans so donating to Paws of War is a perfect fit.”
At right, from left, Russell Keyzer, United States Army Veteran; Artimiss, Paws of War Service Dog; Robert Misseri, President of Paws of War; Christopher McNamara, President of Mac Abstract and Volunteer of Paws of War and Gail DiGiacomo, Suffolk Federal Commack Branch Manager.