Student Sponsor Partners: Empowering NYC Students Through Education and Mentorship
Student Sponsor Partners (SSP) is a non-profit organization based in New York City that addresses the high school dropout crisis by providing students with four years of college-preparatory education and mentorship. Founded in 1986 by Peter Flanigan, SSP supports students from low-income households and underserved communities who face significant barriers to academic success. The program's success is rooted in the commitment of sponsors and mentors, the nurturing environment of partner high schools, and the dedication of the SSP staff.
The Genesis of SSP: A Conversation and a Commitment
The story of Student Sponsor Partners began in the winter of 1986 with a conversation between two bankers who sought to help inner-city kids. Their solution was to provide scholarships to private schools and mentorship throughout high school. This idea resonated with others, and by the following September, 45 sponsors were supporting 45 students at Cardinal Hayes High School and Cathedral High School.
The Three Pillars of SSP: Students, Sponsors, and Schools
The SSP program is built upon three key groups: students, sponsors and mentors, and partner high schools. Approximately 1,200 students participate in the program each year. These students are selected based on their financial, academic, and social needs. Sponsors and mentors are educated professionals who commit to supporting a student for four years. SSP partners with 23 high schools that have a history of educating New York City students and provide a structured learning environment.
The Role of Partner Schools
SSP's 23 participating schools are located throughout New York City, including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Each school designates a dedicated coordinator to monitor the progress of SSP students, maintain regular contact with SSP families and mentors, and collaborate with SSP program staff. This ensures that students receive the support they need to succeed.
A Legacy of Support and Success
For more than 30 years, SSP has been dedicated to providing a college preparatory, non-public high school education to New York City high school students who live in poverty and face significant barriers to academic success. Approximately 85 percent of students in the program graduate high school on time. SSP students come from low-income households, live in underserved communities, and are at risk of falling through the cracks.
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Key Figures and Events in SSP History
Several individuals have played a significant role in the success of SSP. David Dunn, a longtime supporter, became an extraordinary supporter by funding the education of 100 students with a gift totaling $500,000 a year. SSP has also honored Colm Kelleher, Co-President of Morgan Stanley Institutional Securities and Head of EMEA and Asia Pacific, at the Thirteenth Annual Founder's Dinner. Debra De Jesus-Vizzi was appointed as executive director.
SSP's Impact and Reach
SSP's impact extends beyond the students it serves. The organization also provides opportunities for professionals to become involved in their communities through sponsorship and mentorship. BoardAssist, a New York-based nonprofit corporation, recognizes SSP as an organization dedicated to providing a college preparatory education to New York City high school students who live in poverty and face significant barriers to academic success.
Addressing the Dropout Crisis
In 1986, Peter Flanigan founded SSP to address the high school dropout crisis in New York City, launching the program with 45 students supported by 45 financial sponsors and mentors. SSP continues to address the high school dropout crisis in New York City by providing students with four years of college-preparatory education and mentorship.
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