Testimonials
“The L.I.F.T. Foundation (founded by Bob and Susan Kozlowski) is a perfect example of how two individuals can positively impact the lives of others. Bob and Susan unselfishly gave their time to help students and teachers in two of our district’s high poverty schools. They quickly became an integral part of the school communities and were fully embraced by the students and the faculty. During Bob and Susan’s visits to the schools, they provided tutoring and mentoring for students helping them to bridge the gap between what they lacked socially and academically. Students were not judged by Mr. and Mrs. Kozlowski because of their limited resources but instead they were always motivated and encouraged to succeed in spite of their circumstances.
The L.I.F.T. Foundation has demonstrated a passion for literacy; therefore, several schools developed and promoted several school literacy initiatives. With an increase desire to do more, the Kozlowski’s supported and encouraged teachers to expand learning opportunities within their classroom for the students. Grant opportunities were made available through the L.I.F.T. Foundation facilitating high creativity and unique programs. Likewise, the L.I.F.T. Foundation expanded its commitment for student achievement by assisting high school students (first generation) to attend a college or university. High school students who met the rigorous academic criteria received full scholarships to attend the college of their choice. Once again the L.I.F.T. Foundation allowed students who would otherwise be unable to go to college to realize their dreams.
As I reflect upon the great partnership that MSD Pike has had with Bob and Susan, I am reminded of this quote: “Think about the people you respect and admire the most. Aren’t they the ones who have given the most?”
In summary, the journey began with Bob and Susan and it continues with the both of them. Bob’s spirit is smiling because his wife Susan is still carrying out their mission to help disadvantaged youth achieve academic success.”
Nathaniel Jones, Ed. S.
Superintendent of Schools
Metropolitan School District of Pike Township
“The LIFT Foundation Scholarship Program has made a significant impact in the lives of the students selected from Pike High School. Robert and Susan Kozlowski established this wonderful opportunity in the fall of 2008. The first recipients are now successful juniors in college!
Through the continued efforts of Susan Kozlowski, the LIFT scholarships have provided financial support for students who might not have had the resources to go on to post-secondary institutions. In addition, Susan has personally enriched the lives of the students through her role as a mentor. The nurturing and encouragement that she provides and her tenacious attention to supporting the ongoing success of the students as they pursue their degrees is immeasurable.
We certainly appreciate and applaud the mission of the LIFT Foundation. We know it’s ultimate success can only be contributed to the generous spirits of those involved in running the foundation. Their determination to make a difference in the lives of these families is a testament to the enthusiastic efforts of Susan Kozlowski and the magnificent legacy built by Robert Kozlowski.”
Evelyn Gearries
Assistant Principal
Pike High School/Pike Freshman Center
“The L.I.F.T. Foundation’s generosity to students at Fishback Creek Public Academy include:
A subscription to Bookflix — a new online literacy resource that strives to build a love of reading and learning. Now, students who have limited access to books at home are able to bring books home to read — they can even carry them with the book totes that the foundation provided.
A grant for a field trip to Marengo Caves — 4th grade students traveled down to Marengo Caves, experiencing an enriching “real world” opportunity to study land formations.
‘None of this would have been possible without the L.I.F.T. Foundation’s gracious and generous grants.'”
Larry Young
Principal
Fishback Creek Public Academy
The L.I.F.T. Foundation, and co-founder and trustee Susan Kozlowski specifically, are truly
amazing. The support and partnership Bright Star Schools’ students, alumni, and families have received from L.I.F.T. and Susan have been phenomenal and life-changing for our students and their families.
From financial aid and scholarships for our students, most of whom are first-generation college
goers, to personal mentorship and the opportunity to participate in the “Empower YOU Through
L.I.F.T. Programs,” the L.I.F.T. Foundation has not only helped our students thrive in higher
education but also helped Bright Star deliver on our promise that every student’s future is bright.
Hundreds of Bright Star students have benefited personally from the support of the L.I.F.T.
Foundation to date. In summer 2021 and summer 2020 alone, 190 students participated in the
“Empower YOU Through L.I.F.T. Programs,” the Foundation’s virtual college-readiness program
that provides first-generation college student mentors, support with the transition to college, and
helps students prepare for successful careers with resume and interview guidance.
Additionally, four Bright Star students have earned the Robert and Susan Kozlowski L.I.F.T.
Scholarships, which provide full-ride financial scholarships for college, mentorship, a MacBook
Air laptop with AppleCare and cases, and all dorm items. Nine additional Bright Star students
have received MacBook Air computers, AppleCare, and cases from the L.I.F.T. Foundation for
college.
The L.I.F.T. Foundation’s programs are selective and the experience is remarkable and
impactful for those who are chosen to participate. Susan is deeply committed to this work, and
her integrity and high standards are unparalleled. Moreover, she has invested her own time and
resources and continually goes above and beyond to support our students. Time and again, it’s
been evident that for Susan, this work and support are driven from her heart. She gets to know
the students who participate in the programs personally, and she speaks of them as if they are
family members.
We are grateful for the L.I.F.T. Foundation and Susan’s commitment and dedication to our
students, families, and to Bright Star Schools’ mission. Together, we’re ensuring that all
students’ futures are bright.
Marni Parsons
Vice President of Student and Family Services
Bright Star Schools