Scholarship Helps Jeanty to Pursue Cybersecurity Goals
ALBANY, N.Y. (Feb. 3, 2026) — For Markenson “Marck” Jeanty of Spring Valley, N.Y., choosing the University at Albany was about finding the right balance between independence and support.
“I grew up in Rockland County, and UAlbany is far enough from home to feel independent but still close enough that I can go back if there’s an emergency,” he said. “My parents didn’t mind which school I chose. What mattered to them was that I pursued a college education and worked hard to succeed.”
Jeanty, a 2025 graduate of Spring Valley High School, is pursuing a degree in cybersecurity in UAlbany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity. He traces his interest in the field to a high school cyber club, where he first learned to build websites and defend against basic attacks. “Ever since then, I’ve been hooked,” he said.
Jeanty’s path to UAlbany was supported by an award made possible through an endowed scholarship. At UAlbany, endowed scholarships established by alumni, donors and friends of the University help expand access to higher education by supporting students as they pursue their academic goals. These scholarships are designed to provide long-term, sustainable support, creating opportunities for students such as Jeanty to focus on learning, discovery and personal growth.
“Endowed scholarships play a crucial role in advancing UAlbany’s mission of providing an exceptional education and vital resources that empower our students to achieve their academic goals,” said Vice President for Advancement & Executive Director of The University at Albany Foundation Fardin Sanai. “We are grateful to our generous donors who are nurturing our next generation of leaders and thinkers.”
Now a sophomore by credit, Jeanty is already looking ahead. He hopes to land a cybersecurity internship or shadowing experience to gain hands-on training in the field. After graduation, he plans to work as a cybersecurity specialist.
Outside the classroom, he spends time with friends and stays active at the campus gym.
Jeanty said he encourages other students to consider UAlbany’s strong academics, supportive community, and opportunities for growth. “It’s a great place to learn and figure out who you want to be,” he said.
In addition to endowed scholarships, UAlbany offers a wide range of merit-based and institutional awards for incoming and continuing students. The University also connects students with additional internal and external scholarship opportunities to help make a UAlbany education accessible and affordable. Students can learn more about available scholarships and application requirements by visiting https://www.albany.edu/admissions.