Helen Downing Good Deed Scholarship

The Helen Downing Good Deed Scholarship was established by Deborah Downing Borner ‘73 in memory of her mother, Helen Downing, who believed that good deeds and friendships provided a good life. Helen also believed that reaching out and caring for others is fundamental for the wellbeing of individuals and the community. After graduating from Cortland, Deborah Borner realized the wisdom of her mother’s words and established this scholarship for students actively involved in civic engagement and volunteerism at SUNY Cortland, or Cortland or their local community. Recipients must have satisfactory academic achievement. Preference will be given to those with demonstrated financial need. Award will be split evenly between the fall and spring semesters. Funding is based on availability.

Selection Criteria

  • For full-time matriculating students of any major.
  • Recipients will participate in SUNY Cortland’s civic engagement program/activities which impact either the SUNY Cortland campus, or Cortland or their local community.
  • Recipient(s) must be a full-time continuing sophomore, junior, or senior level student with satisfactory academic achievement.
  • Must be enrolled full-time (at least 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester)
  • Student must have at least one full academic year remaining at the start of the fall semester of award year
  • The scholarship is non-renewable and is awarded for one year. Students are eligible to apply each year.

    Preference:
    a. Preference will be given to applicants with unmet demonstrated financial need.

  • This scholarship is a one-time award and is non-renewable

    Scholarship funding is determined by the Cortland College Foundation. Scholarship amounts and availability are subject to change.

Award
Funding amount varies
Deadline
02/01/2024
Supplemental Questions
  1. In approximately 250 words, please describe in detail your volunteerism or service to campus or the Cortland community. How does your service improve the lives of others?