For Immediate Release
April 21, 2026

Suffolk County Community College Computer Science Major Muhammad Fahad Butt Named 2026 Hites Scholar

Suffolk County Community College Computer Science Major Muhammad Fahad Butt Named 2026 Hites Scholar. For a hi-res image, visit: https://photos.app.goo.gl/HQUFRB6Rj8H83ioQ8

Muhammad Fahad Butt, a student at Suffolk County Community College, has been named a 2026 Hites Scholar and will receive a $7,500 scholarship to support his baccalaureate studies.

Muhammad, a computer science major from Lake Grove, NY, maintains an outstanding 3.9 GPA and has earned Dean’s List honors each semester for the past two years. He actively contributes to campus life, serving as Vice President of Fellowship for Phi Theta Kappa, Secretary of the Muslim Student Association, and as a tutor with TRIO Student Support Services, where he supports fellow students in achieving academic success.

“I am incredibly honored to be named a Hites Scholar,” said Muhammad. “This recognition reflects the support I’ve received from my professors, mentors, and peers at Suffolk. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence as I pursue my goals in computer science and make a meaningful impact in my community.”

In addition to his campus involvement, Muhammad is an NSF I-SUCCESS Scholar and a recipient of the Frey Family Foundation Scholarship. Muhammad demonstrated leadership and technical expertise while representing Suffolk at Stony Brook University’s hackathon.

Dr. Edward Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College, praised Muhammad’s achievements and dedication. “Muhammad exemplifies the very best of Suffolk County Community College,” said Dr. Bonahue. “His academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to helping others make him truly deserving of this prestigious recognition. We are proud to support him as he continues his academic journey.”

The Hites Transfer Scholarship is awarded to members of Phi Theta Kappa who are preparing to transfer to a bachelor’s degree-granting institution. Selected from more than 3,000 applicants nationwide, recipients are recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in both college and community activities.

The scholarship is made possible through the support of the Hites Family Foundation and the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation and represents the largest award offered by the organization.

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.

About Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org.