Relieving Students and Families of Financial Stress:

Austin Sullivan learned about the Mary Lyon Foundation in seventh grade, but it wasn’t until his senior year of high school in 2022 that he understood the impact of their services on the community.

Now attending Westfield State University and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, as a first-generation college student, Austin received a laptop from the Foundation to use throughout his collegiate career. Austin sent a note of deep gratitude to Executive Director, Kristen Tillona-Baker, explaining the significance of the donation which relieved financial stress while providing the essential tools and technology needed to complete his education.

Austin immediately put the laptop to good use utilizing it for a summer course. Now, he’s encouraging others to reach out to the Mary Lyon Foundation if they need help. He emphasized his great experience with the Foundation, expressing, “The people are lovely. If you have financial worries before entering college, talk to them!”