Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program

Office Information

Location: Honors Hall Room 16A
Email: KesslerQC@qc.cuny.edu

The Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program is a new visionary program that provides academic, financial, and social support to exceptional students who are among the first in their family to attend college, helping them achieve their dreams. It is supported by Fred and Judy Wilpon—primary owners of the New York Mets—and is a unique opportunity that is available to only a select group of prestigious colleges in the nation. Become a part of the first class of intellectually curious, passionate, engaged, and committed first-generation college students who will join a thriving community of honors peers at Queens College.

*For more information, please email your questions or to schedule a meeting.

Program Director and Advisor:

Chrystle-Claire Greene

MSEd. Higher Education Administration

(Baruch College, CUNY)

Eligibility requirements

Admitted to QC as a First-time freshman for Fall 2021
First-generation college student
High school grade-point average (GPA) of 87 (3.3) or higher
Must be eligible for New York state or pell financial aid
A student who has not earned college credits after high school graduation
A student whose parents or guardians have not earned a college degree

What we provide

Tuition support to supplement financial aid
A $500 stipend for books and other expenses every semester
Subsidized internship, research, or study abroad opportunities
One-on-one advising
Peer mentoring
A welcoming community where you can find friends and supportive older students
Small, discussion-based cohort classes with faculty dedicated to your college success
Unique leadership development and service opportunities
Priority admission to campus housing (if applicable)
Early registration

A mutual commitment

The Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program is committed to supporting students who offer time and talent to help others. As a Kessler Scholar, you are expected to bring your spirit of service to our community.

Program requirements

Earn 30 credit hours per academic year
Maintain a 3.0 GPA
In the fall semester of your first year, enroll in the Kessler Scholars first-year seminar; this course will fulfill a general education requirement
In the spring semester of your second year, enroll in the Kessler Scholars sophomore seminar; this course will fulfill a general education requirement
Attend weekly Kessler Scholars workshops on academic and professional growth
Participate in peer support activities

Support on your academic journey

As soon as you are admitted to the program, we will guide you through enrollment, orientation, and class registration. When you and your family have questions, you’ll find a real person just an email away—you can even meet with the director during weekly office hours on campus or via teleconference. We offer a summer program with virtual and on-campus activities to help students prepare themselves for academic success. This experience will help you form communities to feel at home during your transition to college.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program is the community and the experiences that Kessler Scholars share. Personal connections are formed in the Peer Mentor Program, which pairs new students with supportive program members. Community service opportunities reflect students’ altruistic interests, and professional development events focus on promising futures. Dedicated faculty and staff offer weekly opportunities to be in touch and talk about courses, finances, or anything at all. They guide students as they pursue internships, competitive local and national awards, and graduate study experiences.