Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded each April, please feel free to express your interest by submitting a rolling application form.
Meet Lillie Gilliam, a 21-year-old business student and Colin F. Kennedy Memorial Scholar whose journey reflects initiative, gratitude and a deep commitment to growth…
Before enrolling at the Golisano Institute (GI), Lillie worked full-time at Wegmans as a Pharmacy Technician and Store Trainer. While attending a Wegmans-hosted career fair, she was introduced to the Golisano Institute and reconnected with Jamarr Myers, a trusted former colleague from a youth workforce program that helped her gain employment at the age of 15. Trusting that connection and believing in the opportunity, Lillie applied and made the courageous decision to reduce her work hours to part-time so she could fully invest in her education and long-term future.
Through generous support from the Colin F. Kennedy Foundation, Wegmans and institutional grants, Lillie has been able to pursue her business education at no cost. This financial support has allowed her to focus entirely on academic and professional development without financial barriers. At GI, Lillie transformed from a student with limited experience into a confident business professional. The Golisano Institute helped her navigate one of the most difficult questions a young adult faces: “What should I do with my career?” Through mentorship, experiential learning and hands-on opportunities, she discovered her passion for business development, sales strategy and holistic entrepreneurship.
In Lillie’s words, “the support of the Colin F. Kennedy Foundation represents more than financial assistance—it represents belief.”
Knowing CFKF was a resource, Lillie took the initiative to reach out directly for support because she understood the life-changing impact this opportunity could have on her personal and professional growth. She views this experience not only as an investment in her education but as an investment in her future capacity to positively impact her clients and community. Lillie is deeply grateful for the mentors, employers and organizations who have invested in her journey. She is committed to carrying this opportunity forward by sharing what she learns, uplifting others and continuing to build a career rooted in service, integrity and meaningful impact. Lillie graduated from GI in February 2026, a monumental celebration of her hard work and dedication.
Today, Lillie serves as a Senior Health Insurance Advisor with Maust & Leone in Rochester, NY, where she helps qualified individuals navigate Medicare decisions and secure coverage, protecting both their health and financial well-being. She also interns with holistic business coach Raeanne Lacatena through the Integrated Entrepreneur Academy, where she studies entrepreneurship, personal development and sustainable business growth. These roles allow her to combine business strategy with compassion—supporting both the practical and human sides of decision-making.
We can’t wait to see what is in store for her in the years to come and continue to support her journey. Congratulations Lillie!
Congratulations De’Vaughn Woods on earning you degree from the Culinary Institute of America!
We are excited to celebrate our first graduating scholar, Keith Williams of Bowie State University!! Keith earned his degree in Criminal Justice and starred on the varsity football team. Keith is a great example of how your support provides opportunity to deserving scholars in our communities!
Colin F. Kennedy Memorial Scholarship
The Colin F. Kennedy Memorial Scholarship is given annually and helps cover the costs associated with books and college tuition.
Congratulations to the 2025-2026 recipients:
Leilanni Knott, Colorado Mesa University
Sydney Smith, Howard University
Jalene Espinal Nieves, Fashion Institute of Technology
Journey Ford, NYC College of Technology
Malik Kashif, Towson University
Oorebomi (Bomi) Akarakiri, Johns Hopkins University
Jehvay Walker, Lincoln University
Dymajaz Brown, Rochester Institute of Technology
Kassidy Sayres, University of North Texas
Keishecka Miller, Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship
Lillie Gilliam, Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship
John Costello, Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship
Hazel Roberts, Hampton University
Romina Khatri, University of Rochester
Dallis Jones, Niagara University
Mya Fleming, Monroe Community College
Fadak Al Sallami, University of Rochester
Aquinas Institute of Rochester
Academic Scholarship
The Aquinas Academic Scholarship is awarded to deserving students attending Aquinas Institute in Rochester, New York.
Congratulations to the 2024-2025 recipients:
Terrance Hinds
Carle Thomas
Niyah Charlemagne
Dallis Jones
Riley Knapp
Haitham Mohamed
Promise Irvin Lewis
Amirah Sturgis
Kavion McKinney-Reyes
Our Lady of Mercy for Young Women
Academic Scholarship
The Our Lady of Mercy Scholarship is awarded to deserving students attending Our Lady of Mercy for Young Women in Rochester, New York.
Congratulations to our 2024-2025 scholarship recipients:
Romina Khatri
Orea Agizo
Natalie Reagan
Phyllisity McKnight
Ja'Yonna Willis
Recipient Gallery
