In 2025, the Kosciuszko Foundation proudly celebrates its Centennial Anniversary. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on our legacy, celebrate our impact, and expand our reach to support even more individuals and strengthen our community.

To mark this historic occasion, we have launched the Centennial Campaign—focused on two main goals:

🎓 Doubling our scholarships to support more Polish and Polish American students

For the past 100 years, the Kosciuszko Foundation has advanced education, celebrated Polish culture, and strengthened Polish-American ties.

Since Steven Mizwa, the Kosciuszko Foundation's founder secured the first $5 donation, the cost of higher education has skyrocketed. In 1925, a four-year private college education cost about $2,500. Today, it exceeds $250,000—placing immense financial strain on students and families. Despite this dramatic rise, the value of a quality education has never been greater. It remains the cornerstone for innovation, leadership, and upward mobility.

In response to this growing need, the Kosciuszko Foundation now awards up to $2 million annually in scholarships, grants, and fellowships to support both Polish American students. But the demand for assistance continues to grow faster than available resources.

To meet this challenge, the Foundation has launched a bold campaign to double its scholarships by 2027. This expansion will allow us to provide larger awards, reach more students, and remove financial barriers that stand in the way of academic and professional success.

"I am truly thankful and blessed to have been granted an opportunity to learn and live in Poland. The last year was one of the most memorable of my life, and I would not have been able to experience it without the Kosciuszko Foundation's scholarship. The work the Foundation does in preserving and spreading Polish heritage and culture is extremely important, and programs like this one are one of the best methods for continuing the Foundation's mission."

-Ethan Romagnoli, 2022/23 Year Abroad Program Participant

2. 🎭 Expanding our Cultural programs to elevate Polish voices in America.

From its historic Van Alen Mansion in NYC, the Kosciuszko Foundation shines a spotlight on Polish art, music, and heritage—bringing world-class talent and timeless tradition to American audiences. With active chapters across the U.S. and offices in Washington, D.C. and Warsaw, our cultural impact is both national and international. Yet despite Poland’s rich cultural legacy, it remains underrepresented in the American mainstream.

That’s why, as part of our Centennial Campaign, we’re working to expand our Cultural Fund—so we can elevate modern Polish voices, support emerging artists, and ensure that Polish culture is not only preserved, but powerfully present in the cultural landscape of the United States.

“That competition gave me so much energy and power to work harder. I met Mariusz Kwiecien, who attended the competition as a listener. That encounter changed my life.”
- Szymon Komasa, Polish operatic baritone, Winner of the 2013 KF Marcella Sembrich International Voice Competition

Give today—invest in education, culture, and community.

KF Online Centennial Campaign

Join Us in Doubling the Scholarships—and Changing Lives

Team Members