Community Bank Supports NCCC Students with $4k Donation

Gift to North Country Community College Foundation will help students overcome unexpected financial challenges and stay on track with their education

Oct. 23, 2026

SARANAC LAKE, NY — An unexpected car repair, medical bill or other financial emergency can create a significant obstacle for a college student working toward a degree. Thanks to a $4,000 donation from Community Bank, N.A., North Country Community College will be able to help more students navigate those challenges and continue their education.

Representatives from Community Bank recently visited NCCC's Saranac Lake campus to present the donation to the North Country Community College Foundation's Student Emergency Needs Fund.

The fund provides financial assistance to students facing unexpected, one-time expenses that could interfere with their ability to attend classes or complete their studies. Assistance can help cover emergency car repairs, utility bills, medical and dental expenses, and other unforeseen financial hardships.

A group of people stand behind an oversized check outside a college building

“Community Bank is proud to support the North Country Community College Foundation’s Student Emergency Needs Fund and the important role it plays in helping students overcome unexpected challenges,” said Amy Oliveras, VP, Branch & Community Development Manager. “By helping ease the burden of unforeseen expenses, this fund provides the students with peace of mind and allows them to stay focused on their studies and their future.”

For students already balancing the demands of college, work and personal responsibilities, even a relatively small financial setback can threaten their educational goals.

“Our students are balancing so much more than just their classes, and sometimes an unexpected expense can make it difficult to stay focused on their education,” said Ang Brice, NCCC's Assistant Director of Student Life and Chair of the Emergency Funding Review Committee. “Thanks to the generosity of community partners like Community Bank, we're able to step in and provide support when students need it most. Just as importantly, we're reminding them that they don't have to face these challenges alone. They have a whole team of people here at North Country rooting for them.”

The donation reflects the important role community partnerships play in helping NCCC students overcome financial barriers and remain on the path toward completing their education.

To learn more about supporting North Country Community College students through the NCCC Foundation, visit www.nccc.edu/about/foundation/ or contact Erin Walkow at ewalkow@nccc.edu.