Sneaker Donation - Special Thank You

Our board members are all instrumental in our efforts to share information about sneaker collection throughout the year.   Their special friends are helpful in collecting them as well.  With a total of 69 pairs of sneakers in 6 bags collected, Got Sneakers donated $74 to us up to date.   We wanted to thank everyone who has contributed and helped collect them.

A special thank you to Ms. Barbara Capezio, a dedicated volunteer at the Bridesburg Community Food Pantry, where she plays a vital role in servicing the community but finds the time to help us, the Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship Inc., by collecting sneakers on the side.   Despite living in Pennsylvania, miles away from New York, she works tirelessly to gather sneakers.   Our board member, Ms. Sue Roye, describes her friend as a "wonderful woman" as she embodies the spirit of giving and community support in her community and beyond.  

Thank you Ms. Capezio for making a difference not only in your community but the world in general.  Your time and dedication are greatly appreciated.  Ms. Roye thank you for introducing Ms. Capezio to us, we love you. 

Written by: Nicolas Torres

Ms. Sue Roye (Board member/Treasurer) with Ms. Barbara Capezio

REMINDER--  

    Got Sneaker collections run throughout the year despite set deadlines for pick ups, so don't hesitate to reach out to our board if you have a donation.

    Also, "Giving Tuesday" is coming up soon on December 3, 2024.  No donation is to small.  Make your end of the year donation.  Please keep an eye out for social media app links OR you can donate directly to our organization via U.S.P.S. mail to:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc.

P.O. Box 370153 

Brooklyn, New York 11237  

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!  

2024 Scholar Updates

Elizabeth Katayev

Scholar 2021-2025

My name is Elizabeth Katayev. I'm currently in my senior year at Hofstra University.  I am pursuing a double major in Psychology and Russian and Post-Soviet Studies, along with minors in Marketing and Human Services. I am deeply committed to understanding the intersections of human behavior, cultural dynamics, and effective communication strategies. My coursework has equipped me with a unique blend of skills and perspectives, which I apply in both my academic and extracurricular pursuits. This multidisciplinary approach has strengthened my analytical and cross-cultural competencies, helping me to address complex social issues with a well-rounded perspective. I am eager to continue my education and make meaningful contributions within the fields of psychology and human services, where I can combine my knowledge of behavioral science and cultural studies to drive positive change.Outside the classroom, I've been involved in some fascinating research projects, delving into topics ranging from mental health stigma to cultural nuances in marketing strategies. It's been a privilege to contribute to the academic community in these ways.Looking ahead, I'm excited about the doors that this diverse educational background will open. Whether it's further academic pursuits, working in the field, or even entrepreneurial ventures, I know that the skills and knowledge I'm gaining now will be invaluable.None of this would be possible without the incredible support of my professors, advisors, and the scholarship that has lightened the financial load. Your belief in my potential has been a driving force in my journey, and for that, I'm endlessly thankful. Thank you so much to everyone at S.M.B.S Inc. for helping me pursue my education.

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Joyce Lin 
Scholar 2022-2026

 

    Joyce has recently studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark for the spring semester of her sophomore year. She traveled to 13 countries while she was abroad and really enjoyed Denmark, France, Poland and Belgium. She declared her major in sociology and this summer she is working in finance. She has a strong fascination in the business field and would like to pursue post-grad. She continues to be active on campus through her involvement with the Columbia Women's Business Society, the Columbia Women's Alliance in Venture Capital and Private Equity club and the Gourmand Food club. 

Lunch with Mathias Parker - 2024 Scholar

 Meeting With Our 2024 Scholar

On Friday, August 16th, our board members, Jeanette Aquino (secretary) and Charmaine Mayer, met with Mathias Parker and his parents at CheeseCake Factory at Queens Center Mall in the Elmhurst area of Queens, New York. 

It was a delight to finally meet our 2024 recipient and his wonderful parents.   Mathias' parents presence and support of Mathias was evident and Mathias was clearly an exceptional young man at first contact.  He was happy to learn that Charmaine will be his mentor for the next four years.  Thank you Charmaine for taking up double duties for our organization and Jeanette for coordinating this gathering.  

Welcome to our S.M.B.S. Inc. family Mathias and best wishes on your first year of college.   We can not wait to hear of your new journey.  

2024 Annual Board Meeting

On Monday, August 26, 2024, our board held their annual meeting via zoom at 7pm with the following members in attendance: Diana Diaz Torres (executive director), Jeanette Aquino (secretary), Sue Roye (treasurer), Fanny Mera, Charmaine Mayers, Alex Martin, and Alexandria Agrinsoni.   The meeting was able to proceed with seven out the nine board members present.   Board members currently holding official positions chose to remain in roles.   

A review of the current status of our organization was discussed, including financial stance, our mentor/scholar program and fundraising.    As an organization we depend on the support of donations and participation in events held.  Some held during the 2024 year included the Got Sneakers and the N.Y.C.F.C. soccer game as well as the Panda Express dine out day.   Due to Covid (2020), many in-person activities have not been held since but will be revisited in an event planning board meeting to be scheduled for this December 2024.  We are looking forward to engage our supportive community in more interactive events in the future but always welcome direct donations to our organization.  Any one with great ideas and is interested in joining our volunteer team, please reach out to Diana. 

If you would like to support our organization, there is an annual Giving Tuesday event online this year on December 3rd via Facebook where Network for Good provides the organization with the sum of donations made online in the new year.    Although it was not utilized in 2023, this an option for our supporters this year.   You can also donate by sending a check or money directly to our organization to the following address:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc. 

P.O. Box 370153

Brooklyn, New York 11237

Congratulations to Our Youth Volunteers - Class of 2024

As we enter this graduation season, we want to first congratulate two of our youth volunteers, Dylan Rico and Jason Tlatelpa, who graduated today on June 1st from Christ the King High School in Middle Village, New York.  Dylan represented his graduating class delivering an exceptional speech as Valedictorian and Jason was honored with multiple recognitions and awards.   We are proud to report both will be entering St. John's University in the fall.   Thank you Jason and Dylan for contributing to the development of our social media content.  You both helped us keep relevant and present these past couple of years through all of our social media outlets.

In a week, our long term volunteer, Tracey Reveron, who has performed numerous artistic work for our organization over the years will be graduating as well.   Tracey graduated Principal's Honor Roll from Art and Design High School in 2020 and is now graduating Magna Cum Laude from City University of New York - Hunter College with a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art with a minor in Art History.   Thank you Tracey for the number of flyers and pamphlets we asked of you in short notice.   You always put forth your best work to help us. 

Later this month, our youth volunteer, David Franco, will also be graduating from Leon M. Goldstein High School for the Sciences with an Advanced Regents Diploma.  David was also recognized by the Mayor of N.Y.C. Eric Adams and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton for his leadership and contributions to his community as class president amongst other positions at his school.   David is set to start his undergraduate studies in Aviation Administration Honors program at State University of New York at Farmingdale.   Thank you David for being a liaison for us at your high school and providing us with ideas in developing the distribution of applications and contacts with the high schools.  

This year we did not have a graduating scholar, as none was selected in 2020.  You may not know but we were unable to conduct our usual application and selection process due to the pandemic.  Instead, this year we wanted to acknowledge our graduating volunteers, who during that time did not have the average graduation or normal transition into high school or college.   They overcame and rose to the occasion as evident in their academic success and ability to resume to a different norm.   As a group, they exemplify the strength and resiliency we look for in our scholars every year.   

Aside from being incredibly proud, we admire every single one of our volunteers for their abilities to juggle school work, extracurricular activities and general life responsibilities, in addition to service to our organization, with such maturity and dedication.   You are all recognized, acknowledged and appreciated.  Our world looks so much brighter with you entering it with your talents, intelligence, beautiful character and commitment to organizations such as ours, with such compassion and love.  We hope you continue to do the good work and positively impact the world as our future leaders in your prospective areas of interests.   

CONGRATULATIONS 

to Our Youth Volunteers 

CLASS of 2024!!! 

2024 Selected Scholar

Introducing our 2024 Scholar!  

On the evening of April 24th 2024, our scholarship selection committee sat down to review the applications received.  Those board members included Sue Roye, Charmaine Mayer, Diana Diaz Torres and contributions from Jeannette Aquino. 

As always, it’s difficult to select from such a wonderfully gifted and talented pool but we were able to select an individual who stood out from the rest.  We wanted to first wish all our applicants an exciting college experience and successful careers.  Our future looks hopeful with you. 

Now for the big announcement, please welcome our 2024 scholar recipient to our SMBS Inc. family Mathias Parker!!!

 

“I would like to express my gratitude for your consideration and awarding of the Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship. Winning this scholarship is truly an affirmation that my dreams are within reach and possible. I feel so encouraged to put my absolute best into everything along my journey and to fight to overcome the many obstacles I have yet to face. This scholarship will help equip me with the necessary tools to pursue my dreams and get the best out of my education. This is not just a scholarship to me, it is a stepping stone in my journey and confirmation that I am meant to achieve my dreams. I promise to keep pushing and working towards my ambitions in honor of Stephanie, and one day give back. Your generosity, support, and well wishes mean so much.”

Thank You So Much,

Mathias Parker

Congratulations Mathias on your upcoming high school graduation from Francis Lewis High School, college acceptance into Parson’s and becoming our 2024 scholarship recipient! 

DEADLINE FAST APPROACHING- AUGUST 15, 2024

Application opened January 15 and ends on April 15, 2024.

With the help of our volunteers, our flyer was updated and mailed to all 

New York City Department of Education High Schools early this year.  Please email us at SMBS2010@aol.com if you

need an application. 

We already received several inquires for applications. Now, we are excited to hear back from everyone. 

Don't delay and send in your application and documents today!   

We are looking forward to selecting our 2024 scholarship recipient.  

Best to luck to all!