Stenger announces new scholarships, programs

Stenger continued by describing the progress of existing infrastructure construction, as well as plans for future projects, including new facilities and the expansion of current buildings. This includes the completion of the thirdfloor renovation of the Glenn G. Bartle Library by fall 2024, a remodeled Old

Rafuse Hall by August 2023, the new welcome center by the main entrance finished by spring 2024 and a new lecture hall currently in design.

Stenger reflected on the future of BU under new SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.

“Somebody with the government and political skills [is] the leader that

SUNY needs right now,” Stenger said. “[King] is working really hard on the most positive budget proposal that came out of the Governor’s State of the State address. It is a onedollar match for every two dollars of endowment gift that we get.”

The event ended with recognition of recent electoral achievements by

BU alumni. They include Hakeem Jeffries, ‘92, elected to minority leader of the US House of Representatives, Lea Webb, ‘04, elected to the State Senate and Donna Lupardo, ‘90, reelected to the State Assembly.

Christopher Wen ‘07, a third-year graduate student pursuing dual master’s degrees in sustainable communities and public administration, provided his thoughts about the announced initiatives to expand scholarship access.

“These scholarships can make a world of difference in the lives of students and their families,” Wen said.

“This is fantastic news. I’m glad more students will get the opportunity to pursue their passions through higher education.”

Earl Tampus, an undeclared freshman, said he felt larger scholarship endowments would have an impact on prospective students.

“College is expensive, no matter your income level,” Tampus said. “I think that it will help people from lowerincome families believe that institutions can help them attend school.”