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Centennial Anniversary Fundraising Campaign

President’s message

 

Marek SkulimowskiDear Friends of the Kosciuszko Foundation,

As we approach the 100th anniversary of the Kosciuszko Foundation, I am both humbled and invigorated by the profound impact this organization has had over the past century. Since its founding in 1925, the Kosciuszko Foundation has served as a bridge between Poland and the United States, strengthening our communities through educational exchanges, cultural initiatives, and steadfast humanitarian support.

From the vision of our founder, Stephen Mizwa, to the remarkable work of today’s scholars, artists, and leaders, the Kosciuszko Foundation has nurtured the talents and ambitions of generations. Now, as we look toward our next century, we are launching a CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN to build on this legacy and secure an even brighter future for Polish and Polish-American communities. Our CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN focuses on three pillars central to the Foundation’s mission: Education, Culture, and Community.

First, we are working to expand educational opportunities by doubling our scholarship offerings by 2027. Rising tuition costs pose significant barriers for today’s students, and this campaign will help more young people pursue advanced studies and contribute their knowledge and skills to a global society.

Additionally, we are strengthening our commitment to cultural preservation and exchange. In doing so, we will support the promotion of Polish culture, history, and art. Together, we can ensure that these treasures are shared widely and that Polish heritage has a visible and celebrated presence in the U.S.

Finally, this campaign is about community and legacy. As we celebrate a century of achievements, we aim to honor the contributions of the Polish-American community and those whose lives have been enriched by the Kosciuszko Foundation. Our goal is to inspire future generations by preserving our shared history and fostering a community of advocates, supporters, and leaders committed to our mission.

In launching this CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN, I am asking you to join us in writing the next chapter of our story. Your support will directly impact our ability to champion education, preserve culture, and empower communities for years to come. Together, we can extend the influence of our namesake, Tadeusz Kosciuszko, who believed that equality, virtue, and knowledge are the foundation of a better world.

Please consider making a gift in honor of this milestone anniversary and being part of the Centennial Celebration. With your generosity, the Kosciuszko Foundation will continue to be a beacon of Polish-American friendship, heritage, and opportunity for another hundred years.

With deepest gratitude and hope for the future,

Marek Skulimowski's Signature

 

 

Marek Skulimowski,
President & Executive Director

YEAR 1926, THE FIRST GROUP OF EXCHANGE TO THE US SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
YEAR 1926, THE FIRST GROUP OF EXCHANGE TO THE US SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

A Legacy of Impact

For the past century, THE KOSCIUSZKO FOUNDATION (KF) has strengthened the Polish-American community through education, culture, and fostering mutual understanding between the two nations. Founded in 1925 in New York City by visionary Polish immigrant Stephen Mizwa, the Foundation was built on the belief that education is the key to success.

Stephen MizwaMizwa was inspired by the words of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, a fighter for Polish and American independence and human right advocate, who declared,“By nature, we are all equals – virtue, riches, and knowledge constitute the only difference” and dedicated his life to the liberation and education of the underprivileged. Drawing from Kosciuszko’s legacy, Mizwa established an organization that has since transformed countless lives on both sides of the Atlantic and promoted Polish culture on a global scale. As we approach our hundredth anniversary, we invite you to join us in celebrating our legacy and ensuring our continued impact for future generations.

“In the beginning, there was nothing, no building, not even a typewriter or desk space, and no funds. There was only a dream and few people who believed in it.”

— Stephen Mizwa

Inspired by our namesake, the Kosciuszko Foundation has never hesitated to take action in challenging times. From educating Polish soldiers during World War II to combating misinformation about Polish history and supporting Poland’s entry into NATO, the Foundation has played a crucial role in shaping history. Most recently, our efforts have included supporting Ukrainian refugees as we continue to excel in education and uphold our global reach.

 

A Heritage of Educational Exchange

Since its inception, the Kosciuszko Foundation has helped individuals realize their academic dreams through education. Our flagship programs such as EXCHANGE TO POLAND, EXCHANGE TO THE U.S., SUMMER STUDIES, TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS, and SPECIAL GRANTS have opened doors to professional and artistic careers while deepening cultural understanding.

These initiatives have impacted countless lives, from students reconnecting with their Polish heritage to scholars and professionals driving Poland’s post-communist transformation and shaping its modern, innovative image of today. Additionally, KF alumni have made significant contributions to various fields within American society.

Prof. Leszek Balcerowicz

“[The KF scholarship] changed my life. I can’t say what would have happened without it (…) I could not have had any idea that Poland in 1989 would become a free country and that I would be asked to take responsibility for the transformation of the Polish economy.”

Prof. Leszek Balcerowicz

Polish economist and former Deputy Prime Minister,
KF Exchange to the U.S. Program participant
2025 EXCHANGE TO THE US AWARD CEREMONY
Grant and fellowship recipients with Ambassador Brzezinski and KF President Marek Skulimowski at the US Embassy in Warsaw.

Reimagining our Scholarships

Since Stephen Mizwa secured the first $5 donation to the scholarship fund in 1925, the cost of education has risen significantly, but the importance of higher education as a cornerstone for a successful career has grown even more. Today, the Foundation awards up to $2 million annually in scholarships, grants, and fellowships, supporting the education of hundreds of individuals each year. However, the needs continue to grow.

To address these needs, our goal is to double our scholarship offerings by 2027. In 1925, a four-year college education at a private college in the United States cost $2,000-$3,000. In 1975, it was $15,000. Today, a similar education costs over $250,000. To ensure we continue making meaningful investments in the education of Polish and Polish American scholars, we must increase the size of our scholarships. This will ensure that KF funding is helping future leaders and innovators of our community to access the opportunities they need to succeed. Your investment in this expansion ensures the continuation of a proud tradition of visionary Polish and Polish American scholarship—and a brighter future for all.

Promoting and Connecting Polish Culture

The Kosciuszko Foundation’s headquarters in the historic Van Alen Mansion on

YEAR 1933, american students traveling to Poland on board of SS Kosciuszko for Summer Studies at Polish Universities as part of KF Summer Studies program

YEAR 1933, american students traveling to Poland on board of SS Kosciuszko for Summer Studies at Polish Universities as part of KF Summer Studies program

Manhattan’s Upper East Side serves as a vibrant cultural hub. Our gallery features world-class Polish art, and our events promote Polish culture and history. Over the years, we have hosted renowned talents like Van Cliburn, Murray Perahia, Tomasz Konieczny, and Jakub Józef Orliński.

Our cultural reach extends beyond New York. The KF Washington, DC center, along with 11 volunteer-run chapters across the United States and our office in Warsaw, ensure that our cultural offerings have has a nation-wide and international impact.

Funds to Support Polish Culture

VAN CLIBURN WITHSTEPHEN MIZWA

Van Cliburn with Stephen Mizwa

Since the fall of communism, driven by the unprecedented contributions of the Solidarity movement, Poland has rapidly emerged as a powerhouse in Europe and an even stronger ally of the United States. Yet, despite its rich and diverse cultural heritage, Polish culture remains underrepresented in America. We are determined to change this. In honor of our 100th anniversary, we are committed to raising funds to strengthen our Cultural Fund. This will enable us to showcase modern, contemporary Polish culture and art to wider audiences in the United States.

The time is critical and only your support can help us bridge these gaps. Without proper representation, Polish culture in the U.S. risks being overshadowed. In an era marked by increasing geopolitical uncertainties and cultural shifts, cultural education is vital for dispelling misconceptions and fostering connections between our great nations.

1996, AT THE KOSCIUSZKO FOUNDATION: THE LEADERS OF POLISH FILM INDUSTRY CELEBRATING THE OPENING OF THE FESTIVAL “REVELATION AND CAMOUFLAGE: POLISH CINEMA FROM 1930 TO THE PRESENT” From left: KF Chairman Michael G. Sendzimir, Prof. Maria Kornatowska, Joseph E. Gore, Monika Olszer Jasinska, Juliusz Machulski, Krzysztof Zanussi, Agnieszka Holland, Edward Klosinski, Maciej Karpinski, Krystyna Janda, Boleslaw Michalek, Andrzej Wajda, Krystyna Zachwatowicz, and Tadeusz Scibor- Rylski, President of the Polish State Cinematography Committee.
1996, AT THE KOSCIUSZKO FOUNDATION: THE LEADERS OF POLISH FILM INDUSTRY CELEBRATING THE OPENING OF THE FESTIVAL "REVELATION AND CAMOUFLAGE: POLISH CINEMA FROM 1930 TO THE PRESENT"
From left: KF Chairman Michael G. Sendzimir, Prof. Maria Kornatowska, Joseph E. Gore, Monika Olszer Jasinska, Juliusz Machulski, Krzysztof Zanussi, Agnieszka Holland, Edward Klosinski, Maciej Karpinski, Krystyna Janda, Boleslaw Michalek, Andrzej Wajda, Krystyna Zachwatowicz, and Tadeusz Scibor-Rylski, President of the Polish State Cinematography Committee.

Honoring the Last 100 Years and Securing the Next 100

Image: THE KOSCIUSZKO FOUNDATION PROMINENT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Top left: prof. Karol Estreicher Jr., Rulka Langer, Rabbi Michael Joseph Schudrich
Middle left: Magdalena Abakanowicz, Prof. Norman Davis, Jolanta Fajkowska
Bottom left: Andrew Nagorski, Anda Rosenberg, Prof. Jan Kulski

Through its history, the Kosciuszko Foundation’s mission has inspired many luminaries such as Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Maria Skłodowska-Curie, Czesław Miłosz, Andrzej Wajda, Lech Wałęsa, Chuck Hagel, and many others. As President of the United States Harry Truman noted in a letter celebrating the Foundation’s 25th anniversary, “May the activities of the Foundation continue to grow and serve to encourage those Polish patriots today who, like Kosciuszko before them, have dedicated their lives to the cause of freedom.”

On our centennial anniversary, we draw inspiration from these words and seek your help to support our mission of education, cultural exchange, and the promotion of Polish heritage.

Support the Centennial Campaign

CELEBRATE THE PAST, SHAPE THE FUTURE

Our Centennial Campaign is more than a milestone—it is a chance to honor our legacy and invest in the next century of impact. This historic campaign will ensure that the Kosciuszko Foundation remains a vibrant platform for nurturing young scholars, preserving cultural treasures, and fostering mutual understanding between nations.

Chris Kempczinski

“The Foundation is dedicated to education, and the story about my family and the path that we had coming from Poland has really all been about the role of education and what it can do to transform lives and great opportunities for people.”

Chris Kempczinski

President, and CEO of McDonald’s,
KF Tuition Scholarships recipient

With your support of the Centennial Campaign, we will:

  • Expand Educational Opportunities: By increasing scholarships and exchange programs for students and academics, we will empower future leaders and elevate international collaboration.
  • Preserve and Promote Culture: From supporting Polish studies departments at top U.S. universities to hosting cultural events at our historic headquarters, the Foundation brings Poland’s rich traditions to a global audience.

Your gift to the Centennial Campaign will leave a lasting legacy, empowering the Kosciuszko Foundation to meet new challenges and continue its mission of fostering education and cultural exchange for the next 100 years.

Together, let us celebrate a century of achievements and ignite a future filled with promise.

Please make your gift today and join us in shaping the Kosciuszko Foundation’s next chapter.

By supporting the Centennial Campaign, you will write your name in history next to Poland’s greatest sons and daughters, and secure educational opportunities, cultural preservation, and strong ties between Poland and the US for generations to come.

Giving Levels

(Over the 3-year campaign)

Giving Levels

 

 

Recognition Opportunities

Recognition opportunities will range from named scholarships to naming opportunities at the KF Mansion in NYC, and many options in between. Donors may choose to recognize an organization or another individual, other than themselves.

For more information, please call Anna Tarnawska at 202-785-2320.

How to Give

Gifts to the Centennial Campaign will be gratefully accepted via pledges, checks, online donations, gifts of stock, or planned gifts.

To set up your 3-year pledge to support the Centennial Campaign, please call Anna Tarnawska at 202-785-2320 or email [email protected]

To give via check, please make it out to The Kosciusko Foundation and mail it to 15 East 65th Street, New York, NY 10065.

Mark Brzezinski

“I applied for a grant, and you gave me an incredible opportunity. I spent the summer in Krakow learning about Polish history. I discovered a deeper understanding of what it meant to be a Polish American, to have the name Brzezinski. That summer charted the course for the rest of my life.”

Mark Brzezinski

U.S. Ambassador to Poland,
KF Exchange to Poland Program alumnus

Our Mission

Founded in 1925, the Kosciuszko Foundation is dedicated to promoting and strengthening understanding and friendship between the peoples of Poland and the United States through educational, scientific, and cultural exchanges and other related programs and activities.

Every year, we award fellowships and grants to graduate students, scholars, scientists, professionals, and artists and help increase the visibility and prestige of Polish culture in America by sponsoring exhibits, publications, film festivals, performing arts such as concerts and recitals, and assist other institutions in achieving similar goals.

 

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