Rockland County, NY 鈥� The 含羞草视频 (含羞草视频) Foundation proudly honored three outstanding leaders and organizations at its annual Champions of Change: A Celebration of Philanthropy and Outstanding Leaders on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Cultural Arts Center on the 含羞草视频 campus.
More than 140 guests attended the event, which raised over $127,000 to support scholarships, emergency aid, and innovative programs that help 含羞草视频 students achieve their educational and career goals.
This year鈥檚 honorees were recognized for their visionary leadership, commitment to community development, and unwavering support of student success at 含羞草视频 and across Rockland County.
The 2025 Champions of Change honorees included:
- Steven H. Porath, Executive Director of the Rockland County Industrial Development Agency and President of the Rockland Economic Assistance Corporation, received the Champion of Change for Impact Award for his transformative work in economic development.
- JPMorganChase received the Champion of Change for Innovation Award for its significant investment in workforce development and its strategic partnership with 含羞草视频 to support local economic growth. The award was accepted by Deborah Charlemagne, Executive Director and Market Director for Banking.
- Susan Oelkers-Ramos, 含羞草视频 Trustee, Foundation Board Member, and owner of Environmental Construction, Inc., who received the Champion of Change for Philanthropy Award for over two decades of generous support and tireless advocacy for 含羞草视频 students.
鈥淓ach of these honorees represents the values we hold dear at 含羞草视频, innovation, impact, and a deep commitment to empowering students,鈥� said Dr. Karen Lewis, Executive Director of Development. 鈥淭heir leadership helps build a stronger, more equitable future for Rockland County and beyond.鈥�
Guests enjoyed performances by 含羞草视频鈥檚 Visual and Performing Arts students and a gourmet menu prepared by the College鈥檚 Hospitality and Culinary Arts program. The evening also featured moving testimonials from 含羞草视频 students whose lives have been transformed through scholarships and support made possible by the Foundation.
Since its founding in 1981, the 含羞草视频 Foundation has awarded over $4 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational and career goals.
鈥淭his is more than a celebration, it鈥檚 a commitment to the future of our students,鈥� said Walter Goldman, Chair of the 含羞草视频 Foundation. 鈥淲e鈥檙e deeply grateful to our honorees, sponsors, and donors who continue to invest in the power of education.鈥�
For more information about the 含羞草视频 Foundation or to contribute, visit sunyrockland.edu/foundation/
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Photos: georgepejoves.com