Who We Support

Solon E. Summerfield believed that a college degree was a crucial driver of social and economic mobility as well as active citizenry and community leadership.

After completing his own postsecondary studies, Mr. Summerfield moved to New York City, where he started the Gotham Silk Hosiery Company. Gotham soon became the nation's leading manufacturer of silk stockings, and its success generated the capital that seeded the Solon E. Summerfield Foundation, Inc. (SESF).

Today, the Solon E. Summerfield Foundation engages in grant partnerships in the NYC-Metro area that seek to transform systems and pathways of opportunity so that young people most impacted by social, racial, and economic injustice can live choice-filled lives.

A few of our NYC grantees are found here, and a full list of grants can be found here.