Initiative opens pathways to economic mobility and improves health outcomes in the South Bronx, one of the most medically underserved communities in New York City.
Hostos Community College is proud to announce a transformative development for the future of healthcare and our community, made possible by a generous grant of up to $568,000 from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation.
Beginning in the 2025–26 academic year, all eligible students in Hostos’ Registered Nursing (RN) and Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) programs will receive full tuition grants. Additionally, students enrolled in healthcare-related, non-clinical programs will be eligible for grants to cover the cost of obtaining a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate through the College’s Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Development.
The Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation Scholarships for Nursing Professions will empower Hostos students – many of whom come from households earning less than $30,000 annually – to pursue high-demand careers in healthcare without the burden of tuition costs.
This bold initiative is designed not only to open pathways to economic mobility, but also to improve health outcomes in the South Bronx, which is one of the most medically underserved communities in New York City. By expanding the pool of highly trained, culturally competent nurses, the program addresses a dual imperative: advancing equity in higher education and strengthening the local healthcare system.
In a community where the median household income hovers around $32,000, the earning potential of nursing careers is truly life changing. Starting salaries for registered nurses can approach $100,000, while licensed practical nurses can earn close to $75,000. These degrees offer Hostos students the opportunity to change the financial trajectory of their families for generations.
The program will also enhance Hostos’ innovative “crosswalk” initiative, which encourages students in healthcare-related liberal arts programs, such as psychology, social work, or aging and health studies, to earn industry-aligned credentials. Through this model, students who initially pursued the clinical nursing pathway but pivoted to a different academic route can still earn a credential that positions them for employment in the healthcare field, even as they continue working toward their long-term professional goals.
The Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation’s grant also comes at a critical moment; New York State is projected to face a shortage of nearly 40,000 nurses by 2030, driven by an aging population and the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. By supporting the education of the next generation of nurses, the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation is helping to avert a looming public health crisis.
“Healthy communities are built on the care and commitment of local nurses,” said Alex Cohen, President of the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. “We share Hostos Community College’s commitment to developing skilled nurses as they build careers that will deliver meaningful care and lasting impact in the neighborhoods they serve.”
“This support is a profound affirmation of our mission and the promise of our students. This generous gift empowers our students to transform their lives and the health of their community,” said Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Hostos President. “It is a testament to what is possible when compassion meets vision, and I am deeply moved by the impact this will have on the South Bronx for generations to come.”
Dr. Andrea Fabrizio, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, said “This is a deeply appreciated and incredibly exciting belief in our students that will support their economic mobility, professional growth, and capacity to support our community."
Hostos Community College is deeply grateful to the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation for their visionary support. This generous grant will transform lives and strengthen our community, our city, and our healthcare system for years to come.