By James Lomuscio
Only a few months ago, administrators of the Staples High School Tuition Grants (STG) Program—the single, largest donor of financial aid in Westport and a community mainstay since 1943—feared that awards would be slim in light of the recession.
In February, for example, the STG had raised only 50 percent of the $200,000 it hoped to give away this month, a shortfall exacerbated by the fact that applications for aid were up. (See WestportNow Feb. 25, 2010)
What a difference time and a community’s response can make. Due to the contributions of civic organizations, local businesses, trusts, PTAs and the largesse of more than 450 individuals, the SGA Committee not only reached its goal but surpassed it, giving out a record $265,000 in grants to Staples graduates at the 67th annual awards ceremony Tuesday.
According to Peggy Kammis, who chairs the STG Committee, the amount awarded is a 34 percent increase over last year, with 90 grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 going to 29 members of Staples 2010 graduating class and 61 to Staples alumni currently attending college.
“This year we had the highest number of applicants ever, 117,” said Kammis, noting that in 2009 there were 107 applicants and in 2008, 80.
“This is a result of not only the continued downturn in the economy but also, as we increase awareness and try to find new funding, more and more families in need are hearing about us.”
She credited several sources for the increase in donations this year, including the Staples PTA, which she said “ran a record breaking appeal at Homecoming and helped STG this spring with a special appeal letter to the parents of the Class of 2010.”
The letter suggested donations to honor a special teacher, coach, guidance counselor, “anyone who has made a difference in their child’s life while at Staples.”
“Who knew such a simple idea would generate much needed funds in the eleventh hour?” asked Kamins.
She also thanked both Staples Principal John Dodig and “06880’s” Dan Woog for promoting the STG and correcting the misconception that families in Westport have no financial need.
“Due to fast rising college costs and a tough economy, the need is greater than ever,” she said.
According to Lee Bollert, who heads STG’s Donor Committee, there were more than 450 individual donations as well as the annual yield from funds established to honor local individuals.
Among this year’s new awards were: the Lou Santella Memorial Scholarship Award, the Rita L. Damoc Memorial Award, the Staples High School Reunion Award, Dr. Elliott Landon Award and the Anne, Edward Yass Memorial Award and the Ann Kiester and Katy Macieski Award.
“Donations to STG come in a variety of ways,” said Bollert. “Whether it be a response to a mailing, a celebration or a tribute to a loved one, all support the mission of STG.
“It’s with much gratitude and a warm heart that we thank these donors, remember loved ones and look to the future as our STG recipients pursue their dreams.”
