The Barbara and Harry Sperber Scholarship
Barbara and Harry Sperber put down roots in Flushing in 1957, raising their family in Queens. They were “non-traditional” students, each pursuing education when the time was right. Recognizing that “life happens” at different times for different people, this scholarship was created for part-time students at Queensborough, who, like Barbara and Harry, are determined to better their lives through education.
Barbara Lee Sperber (1932-2001) grew up in Elmhurst, NY, initially attending Columbia University College of Pharmacy before leaving at age 19 when she married. Years later, while managing her household, she enrolled at Queens College, earning her BA in five years and her MSED three years later, at the age of 42. This was no small feat in the 1960s and '70s when women were redefining their traditional roles. Her 24-year academic journey was well worth it – a talented craftswoman, she transitioned from substitute-teaching art in Queens high schools to serving as the Administrator of the Queens Museum of Art in Flushing Meadow Park for over 15 years, a career that fulfilled her passion.
Harry Sperber (1924-2020) grew up in the Bronx during the Depression and left high school to help his parents. From 1943-1945, he served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a high-speed radio operator, intercepting and decoding messages while traveling the world. Upon his return at age 22, Harry tackled unfinished business — he earned his GED and even enrolled in classes at Pace University on the GI Bill. Combining his life smarts and education, Harry had a rewarding 49-year career at Macy's Herald Square, rising from “stock boy” to a top commissioned salesperson.
Barbara's commitment to achieving her educational goals served as a strong example for her children. Inspired by her persistence, they too pursued non-traditional paths.
Joseph Leigh Sperber (1955-2019) attended SUNY Purchase for several semesters after high school, earned his AAS in Architectural Technology from Orange County Community College at age 23, and returned to SUNY Purchase to complete a BA in Urban Studies at age 27. Joe enjoyed a 37-year career in the public sector, holding pivotal roles as an energy analyst, rehabilitation specialist/planner, assistant engineer, building inspector, and assessor for towns in Westchester County.
Caryn Beth (Sperber) Giananti attended SUNY New Paltz for three semesters before returning to earn a BS in Information Systems at age 30 from Hunter, an MS in Social Research at age 38 from Hunter, and an MA in Disability Studies at age 54 from CUNY Professional Studies. She worked at CUNY for 34 years, beginning as a programmer at Hunter and retiring in 2021 as a research analyst in Central Office Institutional Research.
In his later years, Harry enthusiastically supported the idea of creating a CUNY scholarship in Barbara's name to help students attend college and increase their chances for upward mobility. This scholarship reflects both Barbara and Harry’s commitment to Queens and their support of students striving to improve their lives through education.
