Baruch College Students Receive Scholarships from Women’s Forum of New York

April 10, 2024

In a recent ceremony, seven Baruch College students were among 20 women honored as Education Fund Scholars by the prestigious Women’s Forum of New York.

As part of a long-standing tradition since 1987, the Fund recognizes women over the age of 35 who have demonstrated remarkable resilience in overcoming adversity to pursue higher education. Each recipient receives a unrestricted $10,000 grant to help fund any costs associated with advancing her education.

Meet the Women’s Forum Scholars at Baruch:

Donna Calloway, a dedicated student majoring in psychology with a minor in environmental sustainability, is one of the distinguished awardees. Calloway, who has faced and overcome significant challenges, aspires to understand and mitigate the environmental impact of human decisions. “My main goal is to remain happy, healthy, and a good role model,” Calloway stated, reflecting her commitment to personal and professional excellence.

Zin Wynn Htet, originally from Myanmar, has navigated a complex journey since her arrival in the U.S. in 2016. From working at the Barclay Center to serving as a Discovery Specialist at the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, Htet’s diverse experiences have shaped her into a community-focused leader. She expressed her joy in “leading and serving and interacting with the community,” underscoring her passion for public service.

Miriam Kahssay’s story is one of triumph over adversity. Facing financial insecurities and personal challenges, Kahssay has been relentless in her pursuit of education. Now striving to obtain her CPA license and a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management, she aims to empower others through her work. “I refuse to let my past shame me anymore,” Kahssay shared, highlighting her resilience and hope.

Lilian Kebudi, an immigrant from Brazil with a passion for the arts, has redirected her career towards public service after facing job loss during the Covid pandemic. Kebudi’s artistic talents and dedication to community service have led her to a fulfilling role at the Art and Design High School. “My goal is to keep making a difference in people’s lives and supporting others,” Kebudi remarked.

Yuyan Lin, the first in her family to attend college, represents the power of education to transform lives. After moving from China and overcoming personal challenges, Lin has become an inspiring role model for her sons and her community. “I am fully aware of the value and importance of higher education,” Lin stated, emphasizing the significance of her academic journey.

Elzbieta Malyszko’s journey from Warsaw to New York has been marked by both hardship and hope. Surviving domestic violence and finding strength in education, Malyszko is now pursuing a degree in Psychology with the aim of contributing to organizational well-being. “In a man’s world, support from other women is incredibly vital,” Malyszko observed, highlighting the importance of solidarity.

Sandra Smith, who has transformed her experience of domestic violence into a force for change, embodies the spirit of resilience. Through her bespoke bag business, Smith empowers survivors and advocates for awareness. “Every new story of domestic violence is a reminder that there is important work to be done,” Smith said, emphasizing her commitment to making a difference.

About the Women’s Forum of New York

The organization was founded in 1974 by civic leader and philanthropist Elinor Guggenheimer with three partners: Muriel Siebert, the first woman to own a seat on the New York Stock Exchange; Eleanor Holmes Norton, now serving as congresswoman for the District of Columbia; and Muriel Fox, one of the first female public relations executives and founder of NOW.

Each year, the Women’s Forum Education Fund Award distributes a total of $200,000 in grant funding to award recipients so they can continue their education.

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