You Inspire Student Success

Katie Kaufman ’25 appreciates the value of a dollar — and her Binghamton University education. Park ranger was just one job she’s had to build up her savings. That’s why earning the Nelson S. and Leona C. Fiske Decker College of Nursing Scholarship as a first-year student and again as a sophomore has been “life-changing.”

The scholarship, established by Leona C. Fiske and named after her and her late husband, covers up to four years of the total cost of education for the recipient, a student enrolled in the undergraduate nursing program who has excellent grades and demonstrated financial need.

Kaufman said because of the scholarship, she can explore her passions and chase the best opportunities, unencumbered by financial barriers. “I’m so immensely grateful.”

“Our applications are at a record high, and we are the destination of choice for more students than ever before,” said Donald E. Hall, University provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “However, our ability to offer financial aid to students in need and those of the highest academic standing lags behind some of the other SUNY campuses and our competitors across the region.

“Supporting scholarships for our students supports their dreams of attending Binghamton and receiving an elite education at a nationally ranked public university. Scholarships supporting access to Binghamton University can change students’ lives forever.”

Kaufman said Fiske’s generosity motivates her.

“I would like to carry on her legacy of supporting others in following their dreams as I continue to follow mine,” Kaufman said.

It doesn’t take a fortune — or even any cash — to change a student’s life. Contact Gift Planning at 1-888-787-0540 (toll-free) or 607-777-6756 (local) or giftplan@binghamton.edu today to learn how you can use your estate plan to help Binghamton students reach their full potential.