The members of the Staten Island chapter of NYS Women recently awarded four local women with academic scholarships to assist them continue their education.

“We are proud to support women each year with scholarships to help advance their academic careers,” said Christine Olivieri Donahue, president, Staten Island chapter.

Beneficiaries of the 2018 Staten Island chapter scholarships are Nicole Agu, College of Staten Island; Eizabeth Slayback, St. Paul’s School of Nursing; Tabitha Amato, St. John’s University; and Alexandra Elder, Wagner College. Nicole Agu is a sign language interpreter at the College of Staten Island and is working toward a graduate degree in International Business. Elizabeth Slayback returned to school after 20 years and aspires to be a nurse. Tabitha Amato plans to be an orthodontist. Alexandra Elder wants to teach English to high school students.

Each recipient received $1000.

Kate Rafia, RN, Director, Quality/Risk Management, Staten Island University Hospital, was keynote speaker and presented, “The Value of an Education.”

New York State Women, Inc. Staten Island (NYSW/SI) is one of New York State’s largest organizations for working women. Staten Island NYSW members share their individual talents, expertise, and passions with other business and professional women. They unite the voices of women in our community to promote equitable relationships for women in the workforce and develop and implement programs that enrich the lives of Staten Island’s working women and their families.

Barbara Strype was Scholarship Chairwoman.