United Way of Westchester and Putnam Announces Seven Ruth Taylor Scholarship Recipients

United Way President and CEO Tom Gabriel stated, “These seven scholarship recipients represent the future of social work in Westchester and Putnam counties. Their dedication to service and commitment to their communities embodies everything Ruth Taylor stood for. By investing in their education today, we’re ensuring that tomorrow’s most vulnerable populations will have passionate, skilled advocates fighting for them.”

 “I am so grateful to receive the Ruth Taylor Scholarship to support my pursuit of a master’s in social work. I have learned so much from my time working in social services in Westchester County, and I look forward to continuing my education and ultimately becoming a social justice-informed clinician. This scholarship will reduce my financial stress in graduate school and help set me up for my career goal of providing accessible, affordable mental health services,” said Liliana (Lily) Conroy, a case worker providing wrap around services for the North American Family Institute. Conroy is a resident of New Rochelle and attends Hunter College.

Vanessa M. Barreto of White Plains said, “I am so honored to receive the Ruth Taylor Scholarship. This support means so much to me and my family. Not only does it help make my education more accessible, but it reminds me that my dedication to serving others is recognized and valued. I am deeply committed to giving back to the Westchester community that raised me. This scholarship allows me to focus on my education and become a social worker that uplifts and supports those in need. I hope to one day inspire and invest in others the same way this scholarship has invested in me.” Barreto is attending Columbia University for her Master of Social Work degree.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Ruth Taylor Scholarship. The [scholarship] will not only significantly ease the financial strain of my education but also allow me to continue building a career rooted in justice, equity, and public service. I believe communities like mine deserve more than survival; they deserve opportunity, dignity, and advocates who are committed to fighting for their future. This scholarship empowers me to be that advocate, and I am filled with profound gratitude,” said Karla Illescas of Mohegan Lake. She is currently enrolled in Columbia University’s Master of Social Work program and aspires to work in trauma, prevention, and reentry.

Lizveth Torres of Yonkers is a first-generation college student at New York University working toward completing her Master of Social Work degree, “Receiving the Ruth Taylor Scholarship means the world to me. As the eldest daughter in a single-parent household, I’ve taken on the role of financial and emotional caregiver for both my mother and younger sister. Balancing these responsibilities while working multiple jobs and attending school full-time is not easy, but my passion for social work keeps me going. This scholarship eases a tremendous financial burden and allows me to focus more deeply on my education and growth. I’ve spent my life advocating for my family, translating, filling out forms, and offering support. Now, thanks to opportunities at NYU and Mercy University, I’m turning these experiences into a career that uplifts and empowers marginalized communities. The Ruth Taylor Scholarship is not just financial assistance; it’s an investment in my mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” said Torres.

The annual Ruth Taylor Scholarship awards are administered by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, the Westchester County government, and the Urban League of Westchester County.