Constellation Brands Establishes First Generation Scholarship

Image of large check held by constellation brands inc employees and President Denise A. Battles Battles.

Left to right: Mark Brown, university relations, Constellation Brands Inc., President Denise A Battles, Jake Hurteau, talent planning coordinator, Constellation Brands, Inc., Courtney O’Dea, coordinator, university relations, Constellation Brands, Inc., Katie Cavallaro, talent acquisition and university relations specialist, Constellation Brands, Inc. / Photo by Matt Burkhartt

Constellation Brands, Inc. has established an annual scholarship for first-generation students who want to pursue their goals at Geneseo.

Constellation Brands, Inc. has given $50,000 to create the Constellation Brands School of Business Endowed Scholarship in perpetuity and an additional $5,000 contribution so it can be awarded immediately in the next two academic years.  

College President Denise A. Battles announced the gift during a First-Generation student networking event hosted at the Multicultural Center.

The scholarship, which provides financial assistance of at least $2,500 per academic year to underrepresented first-generation students within the School of Business, highlights the shared commitment of Geneseo and Constellation Brands Inc. to enhance access to underrepresented students and further bolsters Geneseo's public honors college vision.

"I was the first in my family to get a four-year degree, and so I understand what an opportunity and challenge it can be to be a first-generation student," said Battles. "Financial support can make or break a college experience, so I want to thank Constellation Brands for supporting Geneseo and believing in our students." 

Over the last several years, Geneseo has prioritized initiatives to elevate the success of first-generation students. Constellation Brands Inc. has been a pivotal partner in these efforts, contributing through financial support and internship opportunities.

"At Constellation Brands, we're committed to cultivating a workforce that reflects the rich tapestry of our consumers and communities, says Mark Brown, campus relations for Constellation Brands Inc. "By embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, we strengthen our company and ensure that we remain connected and relevant in an ever-changing world."

Author

Keith Walters '11
Director of College Advancement Communications