Sage, Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar Make Higher Education More Accessible

Russell Sage College and Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar today signed a memorandum of understanding that will help make a college education more accessible for Capital Region students.

Russell Sage College President Christopher Ames, Capital Region Sponsor-a-Scholar Executive Director Laura Marx and Sage student Ronnell Royall Jr., a Sponsor-A-Scholar alumnus, spoke about the partnership at today’s online signing ceremony.

The partnership includes an opportunity for eligible high school students in Albany, Schenectady and Troy to earn college credit through Russell Sage College during the academic year in their districts and on one of Sage’s campuses during a summer college immersion program. Other highlights include a Leadership Certification Program with stackable credentials for scholars, mentoring from Sage-affiliated advisors and early acceptance to Sage.

“A college diploma is the key to tremendous opportunity,” said Russell Sage College President Christopher Ames, “yet the obstacles students face to earn a diploma are often high, especially for those who aren’t privileged or are the first in their family to attend college. Sage is proud to partner Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar to empower a diverse group of students to achieve their educational goals.”

“Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar is excited to strengthen its relationship with Russell Sage College through this partnership,” said Executive Director Laura Marx. “We believe by uniting forces we can expand the opportunities our scholars have by further developing their skill sets, increasing their confidence, and giving them the power to make decisions about their future education. It is partnerships like these that can begin to break down the barriers to a higher education often faced by under-resourced and first-generation students.”

ABOUT CAPITAL REGION SPONSOR-A-SCHOLAR
Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar is a local nonprofit promoting educational equity through long-term academic support, guidance through mentorships and financial funding to offset educational expenses. For more information, visit www.crsas.org.