For Immediate Release
March 2, 2026

Suffolk County Community College Student Selected for National Interfaith America Fellowship

Suffolk County Community College student Mohtisham Saqib has been selected as one of only 20 students nationwide to participate in Interfaith America’s prestigious BRAID (Bridgebuilders Relating Across Interfaith Differences) Student Fellowship.

Suffolk County Community College student Mohtisham Saqib has been selected as one of only 20 students nationwide to participate in Interfaith America’s prestigious BRAID (Bridgebuilders Relating Across Interfaith Differences) Student Fellowship.

The competitive national fellowship develops undergraduate leaders committed to fostering respect, relationship-building, and cooperation across religious and worldview differences. As a BRAID Fellow, Mohtisham will receive a $3,000 award to support his participation in the national program and the implementation of an interfaith campus initiative at Suffolk.

As part of the fellowship, Mohtisham will lead a campus initiative titled Space and Faith at Suffolk. The initiative will explore how the cosmos connects people across traditions, identities, and worldviews. Programming will include a panel discussion featuring faith leaders who will share perspectives from their respective communities and sacred texts about the universe, followed by a student luncheon and roundtable discussion designed to foster dialogue and reflection.

“Space and Faith at Suffolk is about creating opportunities for students to engage meaningfully across differences,” Mohtisham said. “Every tradition has something to say about the universe and our place within it. By bringing faith leaders and students together, I hope to create space for curiosity, respect, and shared understanding.”

The BRAID Fellowship responds to increasing polarization in higher education by equipping student leaders with the tools to cultivate pluralism and advance the common good. Fellows participate in national convenings, virtual trainings, and mentorship while implementing campus-based projects throughout the academic year.

Dr. Edward T. Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College stated, “Mohtisham’s selection for this nationally recognized fellowship reflects his leadership and Suffolk’s deep commitment to inclusive dialogue and civic engagement,” said Dr. Bonahue. “At SUNY Suffolk, we encourage programs that bring our community together in thoughtful and respectful conversation. Space and Faith at Suffolk exemplifies that mission.”

For more information about the Interfaith America BRAID Fellowship, visit www.interfaithamerica.org.

 About Suffolk County Community College

Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 26,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With approximately 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school to college and into careers.