Governor Hochul Recognizes Nearly 4,000 WTC Memorial Scholarship Recipients on the Eve of the 20th Anniversary of the September Terrorist Attacks

 

Grant Program Provides Access to an Affordable College Education for Family Members of Victims of 9/11

 Governor Kathy Hochul today recognizes the 3,723 recipients of the New York State World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship who have pursued their higher education goals over the past 20 years, in honor of their loved ones who died or suffered permanent injury as a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

"The victims of 9/11 will never be forgotten, and a college education is one of the most meaningful ways to provide those who suffered the loss of loved ones with an enduring gift," Governor Hochul said. "Our State cares deeply about the innocent lives lost during the tragedies of September 11, 2001 and it is with great honor that we offer the WTC Memorial Scholarship as one means of preserving their legacy." 

Created in 2001, the WTC Memorial Scholarship has awarded more than $176 million dollars in financial aid to support the college costs of permanently disabled survivors as well as the spouses, children, and financial dependents of 9/11 victims. Administered by the NYS Higher Education Services Corporation, the scholarship covers the full cost of attendance at any State University of New York or City University of New York college or university or an equivalent amount for recipients who attend a private college in New York State.  

President of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation Dr. Guillermo Linares said, "We will never forget those who lost their lives during the tragic events of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Over the years, we have awarded hundreds of millions of dollars through the WTC Memorial Scholarship to honor the fallen or injured by helping to ensure a brighter future for their families. Many families tragically impacted by the events of September 11th who may not have the financial means to afford college without the assistance of New York State can now pursue their higher educational dreams, without worry or the burden of debt."

SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras said, "As September 11th draws near and we reflect on the immense tragedy and loss suffered by so many, I am moved by the courage of the thousands of World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship awardees. On a day when it seemed that time stood still, families of survivors persevered over the last two decades to succeed in life while never forgetting those lost. SUNY is honored to be a part of this program and proud to provide opportunity and access for so many tenacious and resilient students pursuing their academic dreams."

CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, "As we commemorate the lives of those lost in the 9/11 attacks, we acknowledge the courage of spouses, children and other family members who have carried on their loved ones' legacies in the face of immeasurable difficulty and unspeakable grief. CUNY is grateful to New York State for recognizing the transformational power of higher education and honored to help the WTC Memorial Scholarship recipients pursue the successes their fallen family members would have wanted for them."

To learn more about the WTC Memorial Scholarship program or to apply click here.