Painting Bright Futures

Kutztown University students Brooklynne Smith ’27 and Hailey Stumpo ’27 are passionate about art. Brook is a communication design major, and Hailey is a studio art major with a minor in psychology and art history. Although the first-year students are on different tracks within the arts, a Kutztown University Foundation scholarship permitted their paths to cross. Brook and Hailey are the recipients of the Sandra Corpora ’69 Presidential Scholarship for Art Studies supported by Dr. Sandy L. Corpora ’69, ’23 D.P.S. and Dr. Placido A. Corpora ’23 D.P.S.

Sandy and Pat Corpora are loyal and generous supporters of Kutztown University. The Corporas have funded several scholarships and emergency funds that have impacted countless students throughout the years. This academic year, the Sandra Corpora ’69 Presidential Scholarship for Art Studies has been particularly significant.

During the 2023 fall semester, Sandy and recipients, Brook and Hailey, were able to meet on campus and get to know each other. A meeting that started with simple questions and introductions lead to exciting plans for the following semester. Sandy invited Brook and Hailey to her art studio in Bethlehem, PA, to tour the studio and paint together.

Fast forward to March 2024, Brook and Hailey had the opportunity to visit the art studio. The students were immersed in Sandy’s art, learning the stories and creative process behind the many paintings. Brook and Hailey even brought portfolios of their own artwork to share with Sandy. Afterwards, the three sat down behind blank canvases, where Sandy led a guided tutorial on oil painting –a very special moment for scholarship recipients and their scholarship donor.

“Being in the physical presence of paintings that I recognized from Mrs. Corpora’s website and social media pages was a staggering experience. Also, seeing decades worth of amazing artwork collected into one room was really mesmerizing. Mrs. Corpora’s talent and success are truly inspiring to a young artist like me,” Hailey shared.

Sandy has always felt connected to students of the arts because of her own background and experience. She has been happy to support students at the beginning of their journey.

“It means a great deal to me to have the opportunity to get to know the students who receive our scholarship. I think we got to know each other through their visit to my studio and especially being able to paint together,” Sandy said.

Both Brook and Hailey have expressed their appreciation to the Corporas and their unwavering support of this scholarship.

“Receiving a scholarship for the work I’ve spent so much time and energy on is truly one of the most touching things. To know someone appreciates and understands my work is even more of a reason to keep pursuing my goals,” Brook shared.

This interactive experience shows how KU supporters go above and beyond to make the student experience memorable and meaningful, opening doors for personal connection and professional growth.

The Corporas are a true testament of going above and beyond to assist students even after graduation. “I enjoy following our scholarship recipients and seeing their many accomplishments and life choices. My hope is to make their path easier,” Sandy closed.

Thank you to Sandy and Pat Corpora for their support of KU students. They continue to show what it means to be Golden!