The College of Westchester proudly announces Skyy and Bancroft as the Evening/Online College Students of the Semester, recognized by faculty for their academic excellence, high achievement, and dedication to their studies.
Learn more about their academic journey here:
Born in Port Chester and raised in Dobbs Ferry, Skyy spent her high school years at Dobbs Ferry High School before beginning what she jokingly calls her “college world tour.” Between 2016 and 2020 she attended four different schools before finally earning her associate’s degree in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service from Goodwin University. Her path has never been a straight line, but it has always been fueled by curiosity, resilience, and a determination to figure life out one chapter at a time. In 2024, after a difficult period following an unsuccessful attempt at her state boards to become a licensed funeral director, Skyy made the scariest decision to start over fresh and continue her education at The College of Westchester. Inspired in part by her mother, who graduated from the Westchester Business Institute in the 1990s, she returned to school with a renewed sense of purpose and a little bit of humor about life’s unexpected detours.
Now majoring in Health Administration, Skyy has proudly landed on the Dean’s List since beginning CW in September 2024, which she counts as a pretty great achievement even if she laughs and says, “I think that counts as an award, right?” She is expected to graduate in May 2026 with her bachelor’s degree in health administration and hopes to build a career working in a morgue or within a medical examiner’s office, continuing her long-standing interest in postmortem care and forensic processes. While the work may sound unusual to some, Skyy sees it as meaningful and important, helping bring dignity and answers during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Outside of academics, Skyy credits her strength and motivation to the people who have stood beside her throughout every twist and turn. Her biggest supporters include her mom, dad, sister, and the close-knit group of friends she made during her time at CW. With their encouragement behind her and a sense of humor that carries her through life’s ups and downs, Skyy approaches the future with determination, gratitude, and the belief that sometimes the most meaningful paths are the ones that take a few unexpected turns.
Bancroft Grant’s journey is one of perseverance, purpose, and dedication to serving others. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Bancroft attended St. George’s College before beginning a successful professional career that included roles as an Audit Manager at Tax Administration Jamaica and General Manager of Old Reid Corporation.
After migrating to the United States in 2019, Bancroft embraced new opportunities and challenges with determination. He first worked as a Home Health Aide before taking his current role as a Security Guard at St. John’s Riverside Hospital (Park Care Pavilion). His experiences in both healthcare and service-oriented roles helped shape his passion for helping others and inspired him to continue his education.
Bancroft chose The College of Westchester to pursue his academic goals after receiving scholarships from both CW and his employer. Currently enrolled in the Human Services associate degree program, he has excelled academically while balancing work, family, and school responsibilities. He maintains an impressive 3.8 GPA and has earned numerous honors and recognitions, including President’s List, Dean’s List, the CWCF Shining Star Scholarship, and induction into Phi Theta Kappa.
Set to graduate in May 2026, Bancroft plans to continue working in the healthcare field while pursuing his bachelor’s degree. His long-term goals reflect his commitment to professional growth and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Outside of school and work, Bancroft is a devoted husband and father of two. His story is a powerful example of resilience, ambition, and the transformative impact of education.