PA Graduate Receives SUNY Mental Health Scholarship
By Office of the President | May 22, 2025
Congratulations to Girgis Welsen, a 2025 graduate of the School of Health Professions Physician Assistant (PA) Program, and one of only 15 students statewide to receive the SUNY/OMH Mental Health Scholarship—a transformative initiative advancing the future of mental health care across New York.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr., announced the scholarship recipients during Mental Health Awareness Month, underscoring the urgent need to build a more diverse and community-connected mental health workforce. The program launched in 2022 through a partnership with SUNY and the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) and reflects a $4 million investment to expand access and opportunity for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds who pursue mental health-related degrees.
Scholarship recipients receive up to $15,000 per year in tuition assistance for graduate-level study, paid internships in mental health settings, graduate school application fee waivers, and travel support for professional conference presentations. In addition to financial support, the program offers mentoring and professional development to help prepare students to lead in mental health care.
Girgis brings academic excellence, community dedication, and lived experience to his work. After earning his bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Health Science from Queens College (CUNY), he entered his top-choice PA program at Downstate, where he quickly distinguished himself for his clinical skills, empathy, and commitment to service in Brooklyn and Queens, where access to care remains critical.
Girgis has dreamed of studying medicine; as he prepares to enter the field, he is excited to serve communities like the one that shaped him. At the heart of his motivation is a deep commitment to raising awareness around mental health and overall well-being. For Girgis, healing and advocacy are inseparable, and he is determined to make a meaningful impact where it is most needed.
Girgis’s selection aligns with his drive and Downstate’s mission to advance health equity and prepare a healthcare workforce grounded in cultural awareness and community service. His journey affirms what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity.
We congratulate Girgis on this well-earned recognition and look forward to the impact he will make across New York and beyond. Learn more about the SUNY/OMH Mental Health Scholarship Program at suny.edu.