STCC honors student achievements, donor support at scholarship luncheon

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Joy, gratitude and inspiration filled the air as Springfield Technical Community College celebrated its annual Spring Scholarship Ceremony on May 1, bringing together scholarship recipients, their families, generous donors and college leaders for a heartfelt afternoon of recognition.

Held on the STCC campus, the luncheon honored students for their academic excellence and determination, while acknowledging the donors and supporters whose generosity helps make their educational journeys possible.

“This is always a special time of year,” said STCC President John B. Cook during his welcoming remarks. “With this celebration, we take time to recognize this significant investment in our students.”

Dr. Cook underscored the power of philanthropy in transforming lives. “Every dollar is an investment in student retention,” he said, noting that life goes beyond tuition and fees. Students need to consider expenses such as rent, groceries, gas, prescriptions and childcare.

The event featured remarks from Jennifer Brown, President of the STCC Foundation Board of Directors, who emphasized the value of an STCC education in today’s competitive workforce.

“Scholarships like the ones we’re awarding today help STCC students transform their lives while pursuing their goals,” Brown said. “I’ve seen the excellence of STCC graduates in my work as a recruiter. They are skilled in doing the work and incredibly proud of the education they receive from Springfield Technical Community College.”

Traci Wolfe, Interim Assistant Vice President of Advancement and MC for the event, shared thanks with scholarship donors, faculty, staff, families and the STCC Foundation Board for their support of students. “Scholarships like the ones we're awarding today are life-changing. They create opportunities for STCC’s fantastic students and honor their path while making the journey a little easier,” she said.

The event featured reflections from student speakers and scholarship recipients Zoya Plunkett-Brown and Zoyie Plunkett-Dunkelly, twin sisters graduating from the Physical Therapist Assistant program this May.

We are truly honored to be standing here today. This moment means so much to us. Zoyie Plunkett-Dunkelly, Scholarship recipient

“We are truly honored to be standing here today,” Zoyie said. “This moment means so much to us.”

Zoya, who has served as the student member of the STCC Board of Trustees for two years, added, “it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve ever had. STCC gave us space to grow, not just in our studies, but as people.”

The sisters credited programs like the Student Government Association and the Lead Female Leadership and Mentoring Program for helping them build confidence and community. They also expressed deep appreciation to the STCC Foundation and its donors.

“In past years, these scholarships helped us cover tuition,” Zoya said. “Now, with community college being free, we’re using the support to pay for our licensure exams. These scholarships still lift weight, open doors and remind us that we are seen and supported.”

Some students reflected on the impact of scholarships in interviews after the event. Junior Mwakangata, a civil engineering transfer student, quoted Nelson Mandela in describing the power of perseverance: “It seemed impossible until it’s done.”

Another student, Anthony Nguyen, who received both the Amy H. Carberry and Ray M. DiPasquale scholarships, reflected on the impact of being recognized. “This is a great reminder of why I need to keep striving to help the community,” said Nguyen, who works at STCC’s Center for Access Services and has interned with local organizations.

Scholarship recipient Krystin Woodard, who will transfer to nursing school at Elms College, called the support “a weight lifted off my shoulders.” She received two scholarships totaling $600.

A highlight of the luncheon was the presence of Dr. Gail Carberry, an STCC alumna, former vice president and the college’s 2025 Distinguished Alumna of the Year and upcoming commencement speaker. She came with family members. President Cook acknowledged her lasting contributions, including the Virginia M. Smith Scholarship named after her mother and the Amy H. Carberry Scholarship, named in memory of her late daughter.

Carberry was moved by the experience, especially after meeting recipient Nguyen and sitting down for lunch with the student.

Dr. Kevin T. Hinchey, an STCC Foundation board member, grew emotional as he reflected on a scholarship created in honor of his and his wife’s parents. He called the award “the grandparents scholarship.”

“Grandparents always seem to be there for you,” he said. “We all stem from our parents. This scholarship was a way to recognize mine and my wife’s parents. It was a great way to honor them and help educate the next generation.”

While the scholarships provide critical financial relief, their true impact lies in the confidence, encouragement and opportunity they offer.

As student Zoyie Plunkett-Dunkelly said, “We’re not just leaving with degrees. We’re leaving with growth, with purpose and with deep gratitude in our hearts.”

The STCC Foundation continues to raise and manage funds to support the college and its students. With over 41,000 alumni and a vibrant community of supporters, the foundation plays a key role in making college more accessible. To help support STCC students, visit stcc.edu/give.

(Photos by Lenny Underwood)

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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