Empowering Students, Transforming Lives
At SUNY Old Westbury, we believe that every student deserves a chance to pursue their educational goals, regardless of their background or immigration status. That’s why we are proud to announce the creation of an endowment campaign dedicated to supporting Dreamers and Undocumented Students. This initiative will ensure that they have the resources, opportunities, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Who are Dreamers?
The term “Dreamers” originated with the proposed “DREAM Act” (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act), which was first introduced in 2001. The DREAM Act aimed to provide a pathway to legal residency and eventual citizenship for undocumented youth who came to the U.S. as children, completed high school (or obtained a GED), and met other specific criteria. Dreamers are broadly defined as undocumented individuals who grew up in the U.S.
Who are Undocumented Students?
Undocumented University Students are students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, do not have a visa to live in the U.S., and have not applied for legal residency. They may have entered the country without inspection, overstayed their visas, or been brought to the country as a child by undocumented parents.
Dreamers and Undocumented Students have big dreams and aspirations to contribute to their communities, yet they face significant financial and systemic barriers. A permanent endowment would be a commitment to ensuring that those dreams are nurtured and realized.
Why an Endowment?
By establishing a permanent endowment, we will be able to create a reliable source of funding that will exist in perpetuity. This means that every contribution to the endowment campaign will be an investment in the future of our students. Our vision is to not only alleviate financial barriers but also empower Dreamers and Undocumented Students to thrive academically and professionally. Earnings from an endowment would provide stipends for internships, fellowships, and other experiential opportunities that give Dreamers and Undocumented students the tools to succeed as competitive graduates.
How Your Support Makes a Difference
The focus of the endowment is to provide funding for student employment, and low and/or no pay internships. Research has shown that student employment and internships have a direct positive impact on employment after graduation and DACA students often lack access to these opportunities due to their legal status. Imagine being determined to succeed, but constantly worried about how to pay for tuition, books, or even housing. Many Dreamers face these obstacles without access to traditional federal financial aid. Your contributions can change that reality. By donating to this endowment campaign, you’re ensuring these students can focus on their studies, pursue their passions, and reach their full potential.
What about DACA and Work-Study?
While programs like DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and TPS (Temporary Protected Status) provide temporary relief, they are limited in scope and eligibility. DACA recipients, for example, must meet specific criteria such as age and entry date cutoffs, while TPS is dependent on the federal government’s renewal decisions. These programs offer some employment opportunities but no pathway to permanent work authorization, residency, or citizenship. For those who don’t qualify, the barriers are even greater. That’s why this endowment campaign is vital—it would provide a lifeline for Dreamers and Undocumented Students whose futures depend on support and advocacy.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
SUNY Old Westbury has a long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Beyond financial aid, we provide mentorship programs, career counseling, and a community of support to ensure every Dreamer has the tools to succeed. A permanent endowment would be an extension of that commitment, affirming that every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Join Us in Building a Brighter Future
We invite alumni, friends, and community members to join us in making a lasting impact. Every donation is an opportunity to transform lives, one dreamer at a time. Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders and advocates.
Ways to Give
Online Donations: Make a secure online contribution directly to the endowment campaign.
Monthly Giving: Set up a monthly donation to provide ongoing support.
Planned Giving: Include the endowment in your estate plans to make a long-term difference.
Corporate Matching: Double your impact by checking if your employer has a matching gift program.
Stories of Impact (need real quotes)
"Thanks to the support I received, I’ve been able to focus on my studies and work towards my goal of becoming a teacher. I want to give back to the community that has given so much to me." – Maria, Dream.US Scholar at SUNY Old Westbury.
"This endowment would change lives. It’s a testament to the power of community and the belief that education is a right, not a privilege." – John Doe, Director of the Office of Student Affairs.
Contact Us
For more information on the endowment campaign or to discuss giving options, please contact:
Office of Advancement
SUNY Old Westbury
Email: advancement@oldwestbury.edu
Phone: (516) 876-3207
Together, We Can Make Dreams a Reality
Your support will empower Dreamers and Undocumented Students to overcome obstacles, pursue their passions, and contribute to a better future for all. Join us in creating a more equitable and inclusive world, starting here at SUNY Old Westbury.