Empire State University Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program Student Named as SUNY EOP Ambassador

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – October 2, 2023) Empire State University student Stephanie Weinman was named an Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) student ambassador. SUNY’s EOP program offers access, academic support, and financial aid to students who show promise for succeeding in higher education but who may not have otherwise been admitted. The EOP Student Ambassador Program allows ambassadors to mentor fellow students, create a SUNY-wide EOP network of support, and advise the SUNY Chancellor on ways to strengthen the program.

Weinman is a sophomore majoring in Community and Human Services. A Rochester native and mother of two grown sons, she decided to go back to school after 30 years in the summer of 2022.

“Starting college at 48 years old comes with a lot of challenges,” Weinman said. “I did not have the confidence I needed to succeed as a non-traditional student, and EOP gave me all the resources -- plus more -- to get myself on track.”

As a lifelong advocate for various causes, she finally decided what she wanted to be “when she grew up” -- a perinatal therapist, doula, and women’s health care advocate.

“Being an EOP student has given me connections with students, mentors, and teachers that I never thought I would gain,” she said. “I feel I am a part of an incredible community that supports everyone, no matter who you are or what your story may be, because we all have our story -- and that is important.”

Weinman plans to put her advocacy skills to work through her EOP ambassadorship.

"I work well with people and connect with others in a way that opens up an ease for communication,” she said. “I love to help people recognize their strengths and support them along their paths in life."

Senior Director of Enrichment and Opportunity Programs Dana Brown said: “Stephanie is a hardworking, determined, and motivated learner. I know that she will continue developing into a leader in her academic field and will use the knowledge gained to not only improve her community but make a remarkable difference in changing the lives of the individuals, organizations, and the communities she encounters.”

Assistant Director of EOP and ESOP Ted Mallwitz said: “Stephanie is not only a dedicated and hardworking student, but she is also the embodiment of the students we serve at Empire State University. As a non-traditional student, Stephanie has persevered to overcome many barriers to be successful. She has done so with a kind heart and a deep commitment to academics and to being a member of the Opportunity Programs community.”

Read more here: https://www.suny.edu/attend/academics/eop/