Phillip Keefe, director of Planned Giving said, “As a college we are committed to helping students improve their life outcomes. We want to ensure that they are reaching their full potential. Our motto is ‘come as you are’ - regardless of wealth or anything else.”
In 2013, Mercy College collaborated with Joe Schlater, a finance executive, to establish the fund. Schlater was inspired to start the scholarship at Mercy College after meeting James Holmes, a business honors student at Mercy who grew up in a high-crime area of South Central Los Angeles.
“To help boys like James the cost is very small. A very small amount of money can change someone’s world,” said School of Business Professor Mahmud Wazihullah who is collaborating with Schlater on the project. The scholarship, set up by Schlater, is funded by him for two years. Schlater and the College are now looking for additional contributions.
“This is the start of a process – there is a feel of satisfaction but not accomplishment,” said Schlater. “There are still many other boys and men out there that need help.”
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