For years, the Knapp Swezey family dreamed of helping students in their hometowns of Patchogue-Medford and Bellport pursue higher education. In 2023, that vision became reality through the creation of the Knapp Swezey Scholarship, administered by The Trust’s Long Island office.
The scholarship does more than cover tuition at Suffolk County Community College and BOCES. It provides wraparound support for essential expenses that often prevent students from enrolling or staying in school. Thanks to this comprehensive approach, many recipients are the first in their families to attend college.
One student, Lizbeth Rojo, shared:
“Because of your support, I am one step closer to accomplishing not only mine, but my parents’ dreams. I also got to accomplish my lifelong goal of playing college soccer this past fall, in which I was awarded an All-American award! Thank you for believing in me.”
In its first year alone, the scholarship’s impact was so profound that the Knapp family endowed the fund to ensure its longevity. Plans are already underway to expand the program, to support even more students in the years ahead.
Stories like this remind us that a single family’s vision can open doors for generations of students and inspire other private foundations to make a lasting difference in their communities.
The Knapp Swezey Scholarship is part of a growing network of education-focused funds at The Trust. Through partnerships with youth development and college access nonprofits, The Trust’s scholarship program helps high school graduates from across the region pursue degrees and professional certifications. Since 2019, the program has awarded scholarships to hundreds of students, covering not only tuition but also laptops, textbooks, and transportation.
Does this story inspire you? Learn how you can partner with us to support students by visiting Scholarships – The New York Community Trust.
