The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce held its 15
th Annual Business Banquet and Award Ceremony, sponsored by JP Morgan Chase & Co., on Friday, December 11, 2020 over virtual stream and two Hostos students received merit scholarships. Sulma Arzu-Brown greeted the audience on behalf of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and President Nick Lugo.
Hostos students Celina García and Rodolphe Sossou Tchatcha were named the recipients of the 2020 New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NYCHCC) Scholarship Award. This year the Chamber awarded two scholarships—one of $2,000 and a second of $1,000—intended to assist students of Hispanic heritage obtain college degrees. Applicants for the award must possess a 3.0 GPA or higher and submit a recommendation from a professor and a 500-word essay concerning educational and career goals.
Celina García, a single mother of one, works to pay her rent but needs support in making ends-meet. There are times when she doesn’t have enough for food or transportation. Her determination has kept García in school and she is exceeding her own expectations as a student leader and volunteer.
Sossou Tchatcha lost his home to a fire during COVID-19, and the Hostos staff understood the hardship he faced and encouraged him to apply for the scholarship award. His essay so impressed the Chamber’s board, they decided to grant him an award to help advance his education track as a Liberal Arts and Sciences student. He plans to major in biostatistics and minor in biochemistry after completing his associate degree.
The NYCHCC’s mission is to represent and advocate for Hispanic businesses in New York City. They assist new entrepreneurs, strengthen existing businesses, and assure the growth and success of Hispanic businesses.
Thank you to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for their support of Hostos students.