Create the SUNY Oswego "Michael Kite" Scholarship

On February 11, 2022, we lost a one-of-a-kind brother, uncle, son, brother-in-law, friend, nephew, cousin, grandson, and coworker; Mike Kite.

 

Mike wanted it to be known that he made the decision to peacefully end his life after a courageous, private battle with depression, anxiety, and loneliness, which was exacerbated by the isolating effects of the pandemic. His family and friends are incredibly proud of him for bravely facing so many challenges and struggles for so long.

 

Mike was truly a special and giving person, always thinking of others first. There wasn't a single person that could resist Mike's unique charm or humor.

 

He cared very deeply about helping people receive an education. In a podcast, he referenced how meaningful education was in his life. Mike really enjoyed mentoring high school students and was on two advisory councils for his local BOCES, where he worked with students on college and career readiness.

In 2019, Mike was chosen to be the commencement speaker for the OCM BOCES Innovation Tech High School graduation!

 

We are raising money to honor Mike by creating a Current Use Scholarship in his name at SUNY Oswego, his alma mater. A commitment of $5,000 over five years will establish a named scholarship that will provide $1,000 a year to an incoming student with financial need. It will be named the "Michael Kite" scholarship. 

This scholarship will be given to a student pursuing a degree in either Broadcasting and Mass Communication (which was Mike's degree) or a degree focused on mental health, therapy, & counseling. 

 

Any shortcoming of the campaign will be covered, regardless of how much is raised. This is simply a way for friends and family to contribute to a gift that we know Mike would have been proud of.