Braman donates $1M to help FIU, MDC students graduate on time
The Braman Family Foundation has donated $1 million in scholarships to Miami Dade College and Florida International University to encourage students to enroll full time during their last year so they can graduate on time.
The foundation, MDC and FIU made the announcement last week at the MDC Wolfson Campus in downtown Miami.
“The Braman Family foundation values education and wants to contribute to making sure that the young people of this community can reach their goals,” said foundation director Debi Braman Wechsler. “We know there many students who cannot complete their education because of financial limitations, and with this donation … we will see more students graduate on time next year.”
The Braman Family Completion Scholarship will help 1,000 students each year — 500 from each institution — on their last year of studies. Each will receive a $1,000 scholarship to help them graduate.
“This donation is a boost to the MDC's mission of providing a quality, accessible and affordable university education,” said MDC President Eduardo J. Padron. “I am infinitely grateful to the Braman family for this important contribution, and I am honored to collaborate once again with FIU. Here at MDC we believe that opportunity changes everything.”
About 15 percent of U.S. university students drop out after securing 75 percent of their graduation requirements, largely because of financial constraints, according to MDC figures.
Financial assistance, especially during the last year of studies, should help students focus on their courses and attain their diplomas.
“The Braman family has had a lasting impact on South Florida, and now it is helping our students to succeed, make their dreams a reality and make a difference in their families and future generations,” aid FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “This transformative donation will eliminate financial barriers and open vital opportunities for … getting the support needed to graduate and move ahead.”
For information about the scholarships visit the financial aid websites at Miami Dade College and Florida International University.
This story was originally published August 28, 2017 at 8:08 PM with the headline "Braman donates $1M to help FIU, MDC students graduate on time."