A Great BIG Congratulations to Our Youth Volunteer

Nicolas Pedro Torres

Volunteer - Forever

Nicolas Pedro Torres, son of Diana Diaz Torres, Executive Director of S.M.B.S. Inc., was a year old when the scholarship program was born.  He never met his cousin Stephanie but heard many family stories and witnessed first hand at a very young age the work that was done by all our volunteers in her memory.    

From the start, Nicolas did simple jobs like putting stamps on application envelops.  He eagerly continued to do whatever he could do to help out.   Aside from the annual clerical support and providing ideas for fundraising events, he went on to writing and editing for our blog, created flyers for events, provided social media content for all our outlets and most importantly took on a leadership role as Youth Peer Supervisor.   As a Youth Supervisor, Nicolas monitored peers' volunteer hours and assisted in maintaining records as well as provided guidance to them. 

It is with great joy and pride to announce Nicolas graduation from Christ the King High School in Middle Village, New York, on June 7, 2025.  At Christ the King, Nicolas held up his interest in sports, Soccer and Indoor/Outdoor Track, all four years and maintained a 4.0+ grade point average while taking honors, AP classes and college accredited courses from St. Joseph University and St. John's University while still graduating top four in his class.   Nicolas was also on the Principal's List and maintained his membership in the Christ the King's National Honor Society, where he met the 90 hours of volunteer commitment annually since his sophomore year with various non-profit organizations including ours.   

Let us congratulate Nicolas on his acceptances to many prestigious colleges and now his commitment to St. John's University Honors Program and member of the Catholic Scholar program where he will continue in a leadership role on campus. 

Best of luck young man.  You are acknowledged, appreciated and wished the very best in all your future endeavors.  Thank you for your years of service.   Your help will always be welcomed.  

 

2025 Scholar & Alum Updates

It is always a pleasure to showcase updates and successes of our current scholars and our alum.   Here are a couple. 

Juan Steven Bello

Scholar 2023-2027

My name is Juan Steven Bello and I am a sophomore at Binghamton University. Unlike my first year at Binghamton when I was pursuing a degree in Biology, I am now pursuing a degree in Psychology. Sometime last year while taking an introductory Psychology course I felt a growing passion to study the human mind. Learning about behavior and what causes them has given me a deeper understanding of the people around me and how to deal with others' emotions as well as how to deal with my own. The further I dove, the more I wanted to help people. Instead of only getting my bachelors in psychology, I am now aiming for a Psyd to become a Doctor of Psychology and go into the therapy field. From the physical to the biological aspects of psychology, the more that I learn, the more in tune with the world I feel.

My first year wasn't as fun as people made it seem. College was a lot harder than I expected and it took me a lot longer to get used to than I had hoped, but I did eventually bounce back. This spring semester, I joined my first club as the first ever treasurer of the New York State Peace Action Binghamton chapter where we explore social conflict on a national and international level and spread awareness to educate our fellow students of what is happening in the world right now. The social aspect of the club has helped me meet many new people and learn how to converse as well as helping me break my shell. None of this would have even been possible without the help of so many. As I head into my junior year, I am still grateful for the help of everyone that has brought me this far and a special thank you to everyone in the SMBS community for always reaching out and keeping me going.

Jennifer Van 

Scholar 2016-2020

"I can't wait to start practicing medicine in Brooklyn and continue to give back to the city that raised me!"

Graduating from StonyBrook University in 2020, Jennifer took time to get herself back on track during the pandemic to continue her pursuits to attend medical school.  Look where she is at now.  

Faria Islam

Scholar 2018-2022

"I was accepted into a Nursing program! I will be attending Columbia School of Nursing 

in a combined master's and doctorate program."

After graduating from Columbia University in 2022, Faria was excited to continue higher education exploring her options to finally pursue her masters in nursing.

Let us all congratulate our current and past scholars in their continued pursuits for higher education and career objectives.  

CONGRATULATIONS 

To Our Exceptional Scholar

 & Alumni 

We continue to be proud and will cheer you on your journey and achievements.

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.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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!!!