The SUNY Westchester Community College Foundation‘s 2026 Transforming Futures Together Gala, a sold-out event, brought together more than 320 supporters at Tappan Hill Mansion in Tarrytown on April 29, raising more than $545K and celebrating leadership that makes a difference in students’ lives.
The Foundation presented three awards to honorees whose contributions to education, the county, and public service have left a lasting mark on Westchester County and SUNY WCC students.
Public Service Award (Presented Posthumously): Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey
The Foundation posthumously presented its Public Service Award to the late Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey, who represented parts of Westchester and Rockland counties for 32 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. A tireless champion of access to higher education, Lowey was a strong advocate for SUNY WCC throughout her career in Congress, helping secure federal funding for the CCAMPIS childcare grant, the TRIO program, and STEM initiatives on campus. Along with her husband, attorney and WCC Foundation Board member Stephen Lowey, she established an endowed scholarship in 2019 and, in 2022, provided an endowment to sponsor Phi Theta Kappa honor society membership dues for high-achieving students. Her legacy of public service and belief in the power of education continues to shape opportunities for students at SUNY WCC.
Corporate Citizenship Award: DeCicco & Sons
DeCicco & Sons received the Corporate Citizenship Award in recognition of more than 50 years of serving the communities of Westchester and Putnam counties. What began in 1973, when John DeCicco, Sr., convinced his family to acquire a small grocery store in the Bronx, has grown into a regional institution with 11 stores across Westchester and Putnam counties and more on the way. John DeCicco, Sr., joined the WCC Foundation Board in 2018, and the company has been a steadfast supporter of the college ever since, from sponsoring the annual Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway to supporting students through store-based donation campaigns and other community-focused initiatives.
Community Leadership Award: American Women of African Heritage, Inc.
The Foundation recognized American Women of African Heritage, Inc. (AWAH), with its Community Leadership Award, honoring 25 years of mentoring emerging leaders, celebrating cultural history, and creating opportunities for women and girls of African ancestry throughout Westchester County. Founded in 2001 in the office of the Honorable Lois Bronz, then President of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, AWAH has grown into a respected community organization known for its collaborative spirit and sustained, community-centered action.
Actor, comedian, and magician Chris Williams, best known for his roles in Dodgeball and on Curb Your Enthusiasm, emceed the evening with energy, humor, and no shortage of heart. The night held special personal meaning for Williams, whose mother, Helen Williams, was a dedicated educator in Westchester County who served on the WCC Foundation Board and was a member of AWAH, making his role as emcee something far more than a performance.
The evening featured powerful video stories from students and honorees, along with remarks from President of SUNY Westchester Community College Dr. Belinda S. Miles, highlighting how the Foundation’s support has shaped lives and strengthened the region.
“Every donation represents a door opened,” said Dr. Miles. “Thanks to this community, more students will have the chance to stay on track, graduate, and achieve their goals.”
“These honorees represent what it looks like when leadership is rooted in service, generosity, and a genuine belief in others,” said WCC Foundation Board Events Chair Melissa Maurer. “Tonight was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together when we stand behind our students.”
Special recognition was given to the gala’s VIP supporters, including The Lowey Family, Deborah & Gary Raizes, Cornelia & Rob Spring, and The Urstadt and Biddle Families. The gala’s Benefactor supporters included Constance Curran, Jennifer & Bud Gruenberg, JPMorganChase, Rachel & Kenneth Rader, The Stern Family, Lila & Abbott Stillman, the SUNY Westchester Community College Board of Trustees, and Wildey Group and its members Joanne Landau & Fred Schwalb.
The 2026 Transforming Futures Together Gala proceeds will support scholarships, emergency financial assistance, and key programs that help SUNY WCC students access, afford, and complete their education.
