The Glens Falls school community celebrates Valedictorian Nikkita Hyrny, Salutatorian Katie Culliton, and every member of the graduating Class of 2020!
Top Ten – Class of 2020
Nikkita Hyrny is this year’s Valedictorian. She is the daughter of Kelly Pece and Bruce Hyrny. She has been very committed to her academic studies but to her community as well. She was inducted into National Honor Society as a junior, and has participated in Key Club, International Club and soccer at school and can also be found volunteering at the YMCA as a member of the Youth Leaders Club. Additionally, she has been an active participant in the TRIO Upward Bound program. Nikkita was honored with the Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award in her junior year. Nikkita plans to study engineering this fall at University at Albany.
Katherine Culliton is this year’s Salutatorian. She is the daughter of Kelly and Tim Culliton of Glens Falls. She has balanced staying on top of school work, holding leadership roles in clubs, exceeding in her athletics, and being involved in the community all four years of high school. She serves as the Key Club president, the International Action Club Secretary, and is a member of student council, math team, National Honors Society, and yearbook club. Katie has been on the Cross Country Running, Nordic Skiing, and Track and Field teams all four years of high school and has gone to states for both running and skiing as well as state qualifiers for track. She is an AP Scholar and has been awarded the Post Star Teen Excellence Award and the Dar Good Citizens Committee Scholarship Award her senior year. Her Junior year she received The Fredrick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony Award from the University of Rochester, The Saint Lawrence University Junior Book Award, and Rochester Institute of Technology Innovation and Creativity Award. Katie plans to attend St. Michael’s College and study either education or psychology and hopes to continue helping her community and making a positive impact on the world.
Erin Stockdale is the daughter of Steven and Debra Stockdale of Glens Falls. She has served as treasurer of National Honor Society and has participated in Key Club and International Club. She plays the saxophone in Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble and also participates in Chorus, Octet, and school musical productions. Erin is a member of Lake George Youtheatre in the summer and has participated in All-County and Area All-State bands throughout high school. She is an AP Scholar and was accepted into the All-State Treble Choir her senior year. Next year, Erin plans on pursuing a degree in chemistry at the University of Rochester.
Paul Trackey is the son of David and Kathleen Trackey of Glens Falls. He has dedicated much of his high school career to academics, particularly math and science, and his three sports: cross country running, Nordic ski, and baseball. Paul is an officer of his local National Honor Society chapter, alongside Grace Gohn, Erin Stockdale, and Sean Pettis. He is a proud graduate of the 2019 Boys State program. Paul would like to thank some of his greatest mentors: his parents, his Grampa Currie, his middle school religion teacher, David Miele, his Nordic ski coach, Phil Klaiber, and his summer baseball coach, Lenny Cappola. He is currently part of the New Visions Health Careers Exploration program through BOCES, and he is interested in pursuing an education in the medical field and possibly a career in the US Army. Paul will attend the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Nick West is the son of Missy Lank of Queensbury, and Aaron West, also of Queensbury. Nick has participated in varsity soccer, nordic skiing, and tennis while being part of National Honor Society, Quiz Team and the board of officers for Key Club. He has received the AP Scholar Award and has become a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student due to his performance on the PSAT. He also spends his summers as a lifeguard at Haviland Cove. In the fall, Nick will be studying mechanical engineering at University at Buffalo.
Reagan Rath is the daughter of Kim and Randy Rath of Glens Falls. Reagan has taken rigorous courses throughout her four years of high school all while being a member of the Girls Varsity Swim team for five years, the Girls Lacrosse team for three years, and managing the Boys Swim team for two years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Math Team, and she also plays the flute in Symphonic Band. She enjoys working at Gurney Lane as a lifeguard and swim instructor over the summer. Reagan will be attending the University of Maine in the fall to study chemical engineering.
Mitchell Skellie is the son of Chris and Kathleen Skellie. Mitchell has been a member of the men’s Varsity Soccer and Swim Teams, serving as a captain on both during his senior year. He received an all star honorable mention for soccer, and two first team all-star recognitions for swimming. He is an active member of Quiz Team, Key Club, National Honor Society, STEM Club and the School Newspaper. He has accumulated a minimum of 20 hours of volunteer service throughout each year of his high school career, working with kids through AMAROK to develop interest in the STEM fields among younger students. He was a 2020 Boys State participant, and was awarded the Clarkson Leadership Award his junior year. He will attend the University of Vermont in the fall to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Caleb Poag is the son of Graham and Melissa Poag of Glens Falls. He has taken various AP and college level courses throughout his four years in high school as well as four classes directly through SUNY Adirondack all while maintaining a cumulative average of 97.75. While taking classes at SUNY Adirondack Caleb obtained multiple awards during the SUNY Adirondack Business Day. He is a member of the National Honor Society and has taken part in a number of different volunteer opportunities through the school and NHS such as Kids’ Night Out and the Battle of the Bridge charity basketball game. Caleb has enjoyed volunteering outside of school with both Glens Falls and Saratoga-Wilton Youth Baseball. He played on the Glens Falls baseball team throughout his high school career as well as with various travel teams during the summer. Caleb plans to attend Stockton University to study business with a focus in marketing and finance, while hoping to continue playing baseball.
Neil Hogan is the son of Elizabeth and Robert Hogan. He has participated in soccer, swimming and lacrosse for all four years of his high school career. He was captain of both JV soccer and JV lacrosse his sophomore year, and varsity soccer and varsity swimming in his senior year. Neil participated in Key Club, International Club, the Math Team, and Quiz Bowl team from sophomore year on, becoming an officer of Key Club and a captain of both the Math Team and Quiz Bowl team. He also helped raise money to install water bottle filling stations in the high school, hoping for a greener and more environmentally friendly school. He wants to do work like this in the future, possibly as an environmental engineer, going to college at Penn State.
Lison Tunick is the daughter of Stephanie Ruel and Joseph Tunick Strauss of Glens Falls. She participates in performing arts programs both in and out of school, including NYSSMA, All County Chorus, Area Allstate Chorus, and Conference All State Choir. She has been a member of Key Club, Olympics of the Visual Arts, Math Team, National Honors Society, Drama Club, Pep Band, Octet, Jazz Band, and Newspaper Club. In 2013, Lison was Marta in Glens Falls High School’s “The Sound of Music”, and has been in every school show since, starring as Mother Superior in “Sister Act” in 2019. In 2017 she received an award from the Theatre Association of New York State for “excellence in vocal performance”. She has supplied artwork for various theatrical events including posters for the school shows and illustrations for Adirondack Theatre Festival’s “Tooning In” Gallery. She is a member of Lake George Youtheatre, as well as ACEntertainers, a dance and performing arts group that participates in charity events in the community. An advocate for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation, she volunteers at the CCF Camp Oasis. In the fall, Lison will be attending New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts to study acting and musical theatre .
Glens Falls High School 2020 Student Awards
Foreign Exchange Student: Sandra Lorena Oyola Marquez and Teresa Suaznabar
We are grateful these students spent time with us this year. We appreciated learning about their culture and having them as part of our community. We hope they enjoyed their time here, and will carry great memories of GF Nation with them in all their future travels.
President’s Education Award: Dominic Barbone, David Barclay, Kalei Bigelow, Nora Blohm, Ryan Burchfield, Aidan Collins, Gabrielle Corentto, Trinity Crowd, Katie Culliton, Conor Davidson, Judy Derrick, Samantha DiFiore, Lily Duerr, Grace Gohn, Tess Harrington, Neil Hogan, Nikkita Hyrny, John Lapham, Marjorie Layden, Lindsay Maurer, Haley McCane, Cooper Montgomery, Sean Pettis, Caleb Poag, Reagan Rath, Jeanne Richards, Mitch Skellie, Erin Stockdale, Taylor Stone, Weston Sweet, Paul Trackey, Lison Tunick, Brooke Vassar, Nicholas West, Ella Wolfstich, and Ariana Yeager
This award is to honor students who have obtained high academic achievement through strong work ethic and dedication to learning.
N. Harwood Beaty Jr. and Nancy S. Beaty Memorial Award: Dylan Niro
This award is to be given to a boy or girl who will be attending a four year college or university. The student must be involved in music and/or sports but not necessarily pursuing those as a major in college. He or she must be at least a “B” student academically, but most importantly must show strong moral character, kindness toward others, and an ability to laugh at themselves and stay positive in any given situation.
O’Brien Insurance Business Scholarships: Samuel Bordeau, Nicholas Danahy, Nicholas Green, Caleb Poag
These scholarships are for students who have shown an interest in entrepreneurship and business ownership. These students must be hard-working and show a willingness to collaborate with others.
Red Cross Blood Drive Scholarships: Ashley Colegrove
This scholarship is for students who have helped organize blood drives at Glens Falls High School.
Joseph H. Nudi, Sr. Entrepreneur Scholarship: Cassidy Shufelt, Borrke Vassar
This scholarship is to be awarded to a student who has shown a desire to become an entrepreneur, and will be attending SUNY Adirondack to further her/his business education. This student must show enthusiasm, ambition, personal motivation, and a willingness to learn. He or she has also shown a desire to become part of the local business community.
Nicholas G. Taylor, Jr. Business and Kindness Scholarship: Ella Wolfstich
This scholarship is for a student who is pursuing higher education in the field of business or finance and has a reputation for being kind and respectful to her/his peers that he/she will continue into college and professional careers.
Hall Family Entrepreneur Scholarship: Brooke Vassar
This scholarship is to be awarded to a senior who has taken one or more business courses, and has overcome personal challenges. He/she should show a spirit of cooperation and entrepreneurial thinking. This award is need-based, and is to be used to help this individual attend college.
Thomas Collins Wingman Strong Memorial Scholarship: David Barclay
This award is given in memory of Thomas “TC” Collins. TC was always known for his larger-than-life personality. His life was characterized by his love for family and friends; his kindness, generosity, courage, compassion, and his ability to befriend anyone upon meeting them for the first time. This scholarship is presented to a student who has exemplified these attributes of TC’s life. The recipient has demonstrated this through her/his passions, determinations, and behaviors through excellence in athletics, music, the arts, student government, academics, other community leadership, and/or extraordinary enthusiasm for life. The recipient stands out as a visible leader among his/her peers.
E. Leo and Louise F. Spain Scholarship: Dominic Barbone, Neil Hogan, Mitchell Skellie, Paul Trackey
This scholarship is given in memory of E. Leo and Louise F. Spain. Mr. Spain was a prominent businessman and entrepreneur in Glens Falls. The purpose of this foundation is to carry out the mutual desires of the Spain’s to further the education of worthy young men and women. The recipient needs to be a graduate of St. Mary’s—St. Alphonsus Regional Catholic School planning to further their education.
Walter H. and Walter T. Robinson Memorial Scholarship: Nicholas West
Walter H. Robinson started the Technology program at Glens Falls. When he retired, his son took over and continued to develop our program. In honor of them, the Walter Robinson memorial scholarship is awarded to a senior who demonstrates outstanding talent, displays desirable personal qualities, and expresses interest in the field of Technology.
Betsy K. Austin Memorial Scholarship: Weston Sweet
This scholarship was established to honor Betsy K. Austin, who was a teacher at Jackson Heights Elementary School for nearly 30 years. The recipient must have attended Jackson Heights (preferably for all of her/his elementary years), and plans to pursue a career in teaching.
Patricia Buckley Foster Memorial Award: Lison Tunick
Mrs. Buckley retired from the Glens Falls City School District in 1982. Her 23-year teaching career began at Sanford as a fourth grade educator. From there, she transferred to the Junior High School where she became an English teacher. Three years later, she accepted the position of Red & Black Yearbook advisor andEnglish teacher at the High School. Participating in, as well as appreciating, the arts was an important component of her retirement years. This award is given to a senior in the Class of 2020 planning on attending an accredited two- or four-year college who has demonstrated an interest in the arts as well as an independent spirit and the desire to succeed. If possible, a student who \has attended Sanford Street School is preferred and has demonstrated need.
Glens Falls Farmers Market Scholarship: Samuel Bordeau
The funds for this scholarship are provided annually by the Glens Falls Farmers Market. Recipients of this scholarship show promise of success in a four-year, degree-granting program in business, marketing, entrepreneurship, engineering, or science.
Bob and Sue Carty Award: Jeanne Richards
This award is to be given to a senior who exemplifies the spirit of helping others in achieving their goals.
Dave Strader Scholarship: Dylan Niro
This scholarship is awarded to a Glens Falls High School graduate who exhibits sound character and the ability to work well with others in a team setting. This student must be entering a 2 year or 4 year college pursuing a major with an emphasis in sports broadcast journalism and/or production in radio and/or television (in any area including play-by play announcing, production, administration or technical), or communication/journalism in general.
Feigenbaum Scholarship: Erin Stockdale
The Feigenbaum scholarship shall be awarded to one deserving student who has distinguished him/herself in academics and community service. He/she plans to attend a four year, non-religious, private college/university. He/she should have an interest in pursuing a career in: teaching, science/engineering, history or law. The optimal candidate shall possess the following traits: intellectual curiosity, strong ethical character, be patriotic and demonstrate a willingness to help others.
JWP Champ Scholarship: Katherine Culliton
This scholarship is to be given annually to a graduating senior who represents the qualities that Joe Potvin represented in his career as an English and Latin teacher at Glens Falls High School for almost 40 years. Desire to become an educator and school spirit as expressed through participation in athletics and the arts, a positive outlook, and unselfish, optimistic attitude were very important to Joe. These qualities are the basis for selection of this award.
“Big A” Jeff Aurelia Memorial Scholarship: David Barclay
This scholarship is awarded in memory of Jeff Aurelia, a 1992 graduate of Glens Falls High School, passionate teacher at Queensbury UFSD, and respected football coach. This award seeks to recognize individuals who possess similar interest to those of Jeff’s. Factors for selection include commitment to attend a two or four year college, choice of major, and sports involvement. Substantial weight will also be given to the degree to which the applicant manifests towards his/her endeavors.
PTA and PTSA Awards
High School: Samantha DiFiore, Lily Duerr, Destiny Stomski
Middle School: Emily Barber, Nicholas Green
Big Cross Street School: Samantha Flood, Tess Harrington, Nikkita Hyrny, Haley McCane, Dylan Niro
Kensington Road School: Grace Gohn, Sean Pettis
Jackson Heights School: Aidan Collins, Cooper Montgomery
Sanford Street School: Emily Barber, Erin Stockdale
Abraham Wing School: Ryllie Busse, Jeanne Richards, Brooke Vassar
Varsity Swim Team Award: Dominic Barbone, Madison Maier
This award goes to a Glens Falls swimmer who demonstrates excellence in character, as demonstrated in a significant personal essay.
Glens Falls High School Class of 1964 Award: Samuel Bordeau, Brooke Vassar
This award goes to deserving student-athletes of the Glens Falls High School senior class to enable them to attend the college of their choice. Selection of the two awardees is based on contributions to their teams and financial need.
Spirit of ’76 Scholarship (Sponsored by the Class of 1976): Ella Wolfstich
To a student who has set an extraordinary and visible example for other students to follow. This person has demonstrated the ability to positively influence others through his/her actions and behavior. This can be through excellence in academics, music, the arts, athletics, student government, other community leadership, and/or extraordinary enthusiasm. This persons stands out as a visible example for a broad spectrum of students, not just those in his/her established niche (academics, music, arts, athletics, etc.). This person has preferably served his/her school and/or community in a leadership role via student government, athletics, the arts or other.
Scott Wilson Memorial Scholarship: Taylor Stone, Brooke Vassar
This scholarship is given in honor of Scott Wilson, a former member of the Class of 2004. The award will go to a senior planning to pursue a career in an art-related program, particularly Graphic Art or Design.
Brooke Olivia Ogburn Memorial Scholarship: David Barclay, Grace Gohn
This scholarship was established in memory of Brooke Olivia Ogburn, who would have been a member of the Class of 2020. Brooke was born prematurely in 2002. At nine months old, she was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and endured months of weekly hospital stays and blood transfusions before succumbing to her medical conditions. While only 16 months old at the time of her death, she taught all that knew her a lot. This scholarship is awarded to two students with good character, a charitable heart, current need, and commitment to improving the lives of the children of the future.
Alumni Scholarships: Aidan Collins, Lily Duerr, Neil Hogan, Nichloas West
Alumni Scholarships are grants from the income on funds left to the Glens Falls High School by various graduating classes over the years. The scholarships are based on character, citizenship and academic record. The awards are made by the Faculty Committee on Scholarships.
Alumni Association Prize for Mathematics: Paul Trackey
This award is given to the graduating senior who has demonstrated an outstanding ability in mathematics.
Alexander S. Gillan Memorial Scholarship: Nicholas West
This scholarship was established in memory of Mr. Gillan, who was a dedicated educator in the Glens Falls public school system for many years. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who represents academic excellence in the areas of math or science. Candidates for this scholarship are active in the extracurricular program of the school, show leadership qualities and show potential for success in a two or four year degree-granting program.
Clifford K. Bosworth Memorial Scholarship: Taylor Stone
This award is given to the graduating boy or girl who has excelled as a science student and who shows promise of a successful career in the field of science. They should have the personal attributes for which Mr. Bosworth, a former science teacher here at Glens Falls High School, was noted: inquiring mind, great personality integrity, willingness to help others.
Alumni Association Prize for Chemistry: Reagan Rath
This award is given to the graduating senior who has demonstrated an outstanding ability in chemistry.
Maurice and Grace Simmonds Memorial Science Award: Tess Harrington
This award is given to a graduating senior who has shown excellence in four years of science and is industrious, honest, tolerant, caring people person. Preference is to be given to someone in financial need and if possible to someone who has not received numerous other awards.
McClure (“Mac”) Edward Deason Memorial Scholarship: Conor Davidson
This award is given in memory of McClure Edward Deason by his parents. Mac lived for only a very short time on earth but with much courage and strength. This scholarship is awarded to a senior planning to attend a two-or four-year college to pursue studies in the medical field. The recipient must display excellence both academically and in personal character within school and community, exhibits leadership, demonstrates compassion and respect, and has shown courage and strength in the face of adversity.
Class of 2020—Senior Class Award: Ella Wolfstich
This award is for a senior who stands out s a leader in their class.
Adirondack Area School Boards Association Community Service Award: Conor Davidson, Taylor Stone
The Adirondack Area School Boards Association provides this award to graduating seniors within each member district who are shining examples of volunteer service within their school and community.
Graham Easson Scholarship: Mitchell Skellie
Established in memory of Graham R. Easson, who was principal of Glens Falls High School from 1967-1980. This scholarship is awarded to a member of the graduating class who exemplifies the qualities of character, scholarship, and citizenship.
Francis Plumeau Memorial Scholarship: Ryan Burchfield
This scholarship is established in Frank Plumeau’s memory. In his twenty-two years with the Glens Falls Schools, he served as Director of Compensatory Programs and as a school psychologist. Nominees exhibit excellent citizenship and scholastic achievement and are interested in pursuing a degree in the Humanities (art, literature, music, psychology, social services). Nominees must have been accepted at a two or four year school.
Julia Corbett Herlihy Prize: Katherine Culliton
This annual award is given to an outstanding member of the graduating class who has best exemplified the meaning of good citizenship. The fund was established by Mrs. Herlihy’s three sons (Hon. J. Clarence, J. Leo, and Edward J. Herlihy) to honor her pioneer work in the Americanization of Immigrants during the 20 year period following the end of World War 1.
John A. and Mary Lou Noone Scholarship: Weston Sweet
John and Mary Lou both served in the Glens Falls school system for many years. Mary Lou Noone taught first grade at Broad Street School from 1954 to 1958 and then reading for children with learning disabilities at the Education Services Center and Big Cross School from 1971 to 1991. John Noone began teaching in Glens Falls in 1956 at Big Cross School and eventually moved on to the Junior High School and Middle School to serve as a Guidance Counselor from 1963 until his retirement in 1988. Recipients of the award will be selected by the Scholarship Committee based on the principles of education embraced by Mr. and Mrs. Noone: scholarship, service to the community, and commitment to the youth of Glens Falls. The recipient must be planning to pursue a career in education.
Robert F. Cubbins Memorial Scholarship: Dylan Niro
This scholarship is given in memory of a most gifted teacher, Robert F. Cubbins, who taught English at Glens Falls High School from 1959 to 1991. It is awarded to an honors student who, in the opinion of the committee on scholarships, has shown enthusiastic interest in the study of literature as well as exemplary talent for writing. These funds are to be used to defray expenses for study at an accredited college or university.
Donna Vogel Memorial Scholarship: Destiny Stomski
This scholarship is in honor of Donna Vogel who taught at Sanford Street School. The recipient must have attended Sanford Street School and be a student who has turned his or her life around and is furthering his or her education.
Stanley E. Rummel Scholarship: Aidan Collins
Established to honor Stan Rummel for 33 years of service to the Glens Falls City School District. The scholarship is given to a senior who exhibits a spirit of cooperation, empathy and altruism, all qualities displayed by Mr. Rummel during his tenure in our district. The award recipient may have overcome personal or educational obstacles in the pursuit of a diploma. He/she has a clear sense of purpose and commitment to attain his/her future goals.
Caroline Brown Memorial Scholarship: Katie Culliton, Grace Gohn, Jeanne Richards, Brooke Vassar
Established in memory of Caroline M. Brown (Class of 1978) to offer a scholarship to a female graduating student who has participated in varsity athletics and who will be pursuing post-secondary education. Recipients are selected by the Glens Falls High School Scholarship Committee. At the decision of the committee, multiple awards may be made in any year from the income available.
Susan H. Seaman Memorial Award: Zachary Fox, Isaiah Murray, Shakara Rose
This award is given to a senior student nominated by the Middle School who has overcome personal obstacles to graduate.
Dr. James W. Haviland Memorial Scholarship: Nikkita Nyrny
This scholarship was established based on the wishes of Dr. James W. Haviland, a prominent physician and salutatorian of the Glens Falls High School Class of 1928. Criteria for the award are at the discretion of the scholarship committee.
Dianna Germano Curran Memorial Scholarship: Ryllie Busse
Dianna Germano Curran worked as a teacher’s aide at Sanford Street School from 2006-2010. She is remembered for her kindness, patience, generosity, and positive spirit, as well as her passion for the field of education and working with children. This scholarship is awarded to a senior planning to attend a two or four year college who displays these same qualities. Preference will be given to a student who plans to pursue a career in education and has financial need. Selection is made by the Scholarship Committee.
Glens Falls City School District Foundation Scholarship: Ryan Burchfield, Ashley Colegrove, Lexi Cutter, Melissa Eggleston, Hogan Fox, Kaylee Frank, Neil Hogan, Braeden Hunt, Carter Jackson, Marjorie Layden, Cooper Montgomery, Adler Palmer, Brooke Patnode, Sean Pettis, Alexandra Platt, Caleb Poag, Reagan Rath, Mitchell Skellie, Paul Trackey
This scholarship is awarded to students who are in good academic standing and act as good school citizens for the purpose of furthering studies in a field of interest developed during their high school careers.
Harry and Myrtle Gardner Medical Scholarship: Haley McCane
This scholarship is for a worthy graduating student who is going on to college to study a medical field.
Harry and Myrtle Gardner Scholarship: Destiny Lilton
This scholarship is for a worthy graduating student who is going to college. (Any field of study)
Harvey R. Dearstyne III Memorial Scholarship: David Barclay
This scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior who has demonstrated leadership, interest in athletics and has been an outstanding school citizen. Candidates for this scholarship show promise of success in a four year degree-granting program. The selection for the award is made annually by the Committee on Scholarships. The scholarship is derived from the income of funds which have been contributed in memory of Harvey R. Dearstyne III.
Hess Scholarship: Michelle Villa
This scholarship is available to a student in the graduating class who plans to attend a degree-granting college. It is derived from the income of a fund given to the school by Mrs. Hess, a former teacher in Glens Falls High School. The recipient of this scholarship has shown that he or she is worthy of help by a spirit of cooperation and by the quality of work done during the four years of the high school course.
Karl R. McBride, Sr. Scholarship: Madeline Weil
This scholarship fund was established in memory of Karl R. McBride, Sr. by the members of his family. The annual income from this fund is used for a scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who shows evidence of future success in college and has need for such a grant. The selection is made by the Committee on Scholarships.
Richard W. Derby Scholarship: Dominic Barbone
This scholarship was established in memory of Richard W. Derby, a member of the Class of 1960. It is given to a senior boy planning to enter college who, in the opinion of the Committee on Scholarships, represents the highest qualities of character, scholarship and sportsmanship.
Adirondack School Counselors Association Scholarship: Aaron Gilles
This scholarship is offered by the Adirondack School Counselors Association. The award is for a student who will attend SUNY Adirondack or any other two-year college in New York State that offers a curriculum/major not offered at SUNY Adirondack.
Glens Falls Teachers’ Association Scholarship: Katherine Culliton
A scholarship is awarded by the Glens Falls Teachers’ Association to a graduating senior who will be pursuing studies in the field of education after high school. This student submits an essay on “Why I Want to Become an Educator,” and must be attending a four-year college, be in good scholastic standing and have good school citizenship.
Glens Falls Teachers’ Association Memorial Scholarship: Matelyn Benway
A scholarship is awarded by the Glens Falls Teachers’ Association to a graduating senior in memory of any GFTA members who have passed away during this year.
James Morrissey Family Scholarship: Olivia Dybas
This scholarship is awarded to a senior planning on furthering his/her education after high school. The recipient demonstrates academic accomplishment, scholarship through hard work and motivation.
Glens Falls Music Department Scholarship: Lison Tunick
This scholarship is awarded to one Glens Falls student from the senior class who has been actively involved in our district’s music program, and plans to continue his/her musical pursuits – whether it be professionally or recreationally – after graduation.
Saratoga-Warren County Music Educators Award: Sean Pettis
The SWCMEA Scholarship is awarded to a student from each of the organization’s 17 participating school districts who has been regularly selected to participate in the various-leveled musical ensembles offered through the NYS School Music Association, and who is an exemplary student-musician.
James Morrissey Family Scholarship: Erin Stockdale
This scholarship is for a senior planning on furthering her/his education after high school. The recipient has demonstrated academic accomplishment, scholarship through hard work and motivation, and financial need.
Arts in Education Fund Senior Portfolio Awards, in conjunction with the GFSD Art Department:
Senior Portfolio Awards are given each year by the funds raised at the Annual ART EXPO and the Glens Falls Arts in Education Fund. Senior portfolios are displayed along with Artist Statements. Awards are based on the body of work that shows a passion for artistic expression, artistic merit, and creativity. Awards are judged by the GFSD art faculty.
Senior Portfolio First Place: Taylor Stone
Senior Portfolio Second Place: Judith Derrick
Senior Portfolio Third Place: Zoey Doran, Lison Tunick
Honorable Mention: Emily Barber, Nora Blohm, Samantha Flood, Madeline Weil
Artist Statement: Lison Tunick (1st), Kylee Duran (2nd), Zoey Doran (3rd), Taylor Stone (3rd)
Glens Falls Kiwanis Club Scholarship: Katie Culliton
The Glens Falls Kiwanis Foundation awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are active participants in Key Club and are pursuing additional education. The Kiwanis organization is about learning to work together and learning leadership skills through community service. The scholarship is intended to assist in the career development of worthy local students.
Mr. and Mrs. Norman B. Greene, Jr. Vocal Award: Ryan Burchfield, Lison Tunick
This award is for contributing outstanding musical and dramatic talents, and an exceptional work ethic, to the music department and theatre ensemble at Glens Falls High School.
Glens Falls Police Benevolent Association Scholarship: Braeden Hunt
This award is for a college-bound senior planning to pursue studies in criminal justice or law.
Gary Marcantonio Memorial Scholarship: Nicholas Danahy
Gary Marcantonio was a 1968 graduate of Glens Falls High School and is a member of the Glens Falls High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He was as great of an athlete as he was a student. This scholarship is to be given to a student who has made great strides academically and athletically during their time at Glens Falls High.
Joe Vogel Memorial Scholarship: Parker Bridge
Joe Vogel unselfishly shared his passion for sports, most especially that of ice hockey, for more than 25 years with the youth of the Greater Glens Falls area. Always a leader, Joe was instrumental in organizing the area’s first youth hockey club, building the Fire Road rink, and working tirelessly to establish GFHS’s ice hockey program which first took to the ice the season of 1985-86. Most importantly, Joe was recognized for his ability to communicate the skills and knowledge of the game to players of every age and ability and doing so always with kindness, caring, and fairness. He was a player’s coach who respected hard work and perseverance. This memorial scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior hockey player planning to attend a two or four-year college who clearly exhibits those attributes which defined the inner spirit of Joe Vogel, including leadership, perseverance, and sportsmanship and who best demonstrates a work ethic that acknowledges, as did Joe’s, that “the highest reward for a man’s toil is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by it.”
Charlotte Pruyn Hyde Award: Judith Derrick
This award is made to a graduating senior for post-secondary school expenses. The recipient of this award is a student who has rendered significant service to his or her school or community.
Philip C. Brown Awards: Tess Harrington, Taylor Stone
These awards are made to graduating seniors for post-secondary school expenses. The recipients of these awards are students who have rendered significant service to his/her school or community.
Dr. Bruce Michael Kantrowitz Scholarship: Caleb Poag
This scholarship was established in memory of Dr. Bruce Michael Kantrowitz, Class of 1967, and is awarded annually to a graduating senior who has demonstrated academic excellence and is of good moral character, two of the top qualities for which Dr. Kantrowitz was noted. Preference is given to someone planning to pursue a career in English, Journalism, Writing or Communication. This scholarship recipient is determined by the Committee on Scholarships.
Byron J. Jacobson and Anne J. Jacobson Prize: Nikkita Hyrny
This prize is awarded each year to the person who ranks first in the graduating class. Funds for this prize are derived from an endowment established by Mr. and Mrs. Jacobson for this purpose.
Crary Foundation Scholarships: Weston Sweet, Brooke Vassar
Bruce L. Crary, a resident of Westport, NY, was interested in helping young people from the Adirondack area. When he passed away in a car accident in 1962, much of his estate was left as a legacy to assist with college expenses for deserving students in need of financial assistance. Scholarship recipients reside within the five Adirondack counties of Clinton, Franklin, Essex, Hamilton, and Warren. The award is renewable for each of four years of undergraduate study.
Shoshannah Wasserman Educational Fund: Gabrielle Corentto
This scholarship which was established in memory of Shoshannah Wasserman is given to a graduating senior scheduled and committed to attend Adirondack Community College. This student should demonstrate a creative ability in the arts, sciences or humanities and wish to pursue a program of study leading to an Associate’s Degree in Arts of Sciences (A.A. or A.S.)
Sally Quinn Homkey Memorial Scholarship: Katherine Culliton
Sally was an elementary school teacher who loved books, children and teaching. She was passionate about the arts and very involved in her community. Sally continued her interest in learning even in her retirement, through College Club and educational travel. Sally would be very honored in knowing she was helping a new graduate further their academic goals and dreams. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student who demonstrates academic success and community involvement, planning on attending a four year college and majoring in education.
Robert J. Homkey Memorial Scholarship: Trinity Crowd
This scholarship is given in honor of Robert J. Homkey. It is awarded to an individual who plans to attend a two-or four-year college, plays basketball or participates in track, performs community service and who has financial need.
Eva Austin Judkins Scholarship: Nora Blohm
The funds for this scholarship are provided annually by the Glens Falls Club of College Women in memory of Mrs. Judkins. Mrs. Judkins was a member of the Board of Education for thirty years, as well as a member of the Club of College Women. The recipient is a senior girl who will be attending a four year college, which has been approved by the American Association of University Women. It is awarded on the basis of character, need and scholastic standing by the Committee on Scholarships.
William H. Brown Memorial Scholarship: Nicholas West
This scholarship is in memory of Mr. Brown who for 32 years was Principal of Glens Falls High School. The scholarship is derived from income from monies contributed in memory of Mr. Brown by graduates of the school. The scholarship is awarded to the member of the graduating class who exemplifies the qualities of character, scholarship and citizenship for which Mr. Brown was noted.
James Orlow Muse Scholarship: Brynn Mulligan
This scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate who will be continuing formal education. The recipient is someone who has achieved success in competitive athletics through perseverance, dedication and discipline, rather than through exceptional natural ability. The recipient also shows grace in winning and compassion in relationships with others.
Putt and Anne H. La May Memorial Scholarship: David Barclay
Awarded annually to the student-athlete who has made a positive and measurable contribution to Glens Falls High School and has been accepted at college to pursue a career in Physical Education, Health, Recreation and/or a sports related field.
Anthony and Joan Scott Memorial Scholarship: Brendan Kulka
As longtime residents of Glens Falls, Anthony (Tony) and Joan shared an unparalleled commitment to serving the community. Tony was a U.S. Army veteran and worked in the communications field. He served as Ward 2 Supervisor in Glens Falls, led various committees and maintained affiliations with Knights of Columbus and the Elks Lodge. Joan was a registered nurse who founded the St. Mary’s Church food pantry and devoted years of effort to serve those in need, while also volunteering for the American Heart Association and Community Action. In 2007 Joan received recognition for her work from Senator Betty Little and Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand. Both Tony and Joan also served on the Jackson Heights PTA, volunteered for the Cub Scouts organization and were active members of St. Mary’s Church. This scholarship was created to honor the memory and exemplary community service of Tony and Joan Scott and is to be awarded to a senior planning to pursue higher education who demonstrates outstanding service through school or in the community.
Christopher J. Steves Memorial Scholarship: Isaiah Murray
Established in memory of Christopher J. Steves, this scholarship is awarded to a student with a generous, giving spirit who has financial need. Preference is given to a student planning to pursue post-secondary education in the culinary field, but is not required. Selection will be made by the Scholarship Committee.
David Gancher Memorial Scholarship: Braeden Hunt
The David Gancher Memorial Scholarship is to be given yearly to a Glens Falls High School graduate. The recipient should be hardworking, compassionate, considerate and show promise that with a little encouragement they might be more likely to succeed. The student may be interested in a two or four year school.
Ben Osborn Memorial Fund Scholarship: Katie Culliton, Paul Trackey
SPC Benjamin Osborn was killed in action in Afghanistan, June 15, 2010, while serving in the United States Army. Due to his heroic actions, he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. SPC Benjamin D. Osborn was a Lake George High School Graduate. The Ben Osborn Memorial Fund Scholarship is being awarded to students who meet the following criteria: good character, charitable heart, current need, commitment to self-improvement, and service (to others) oriented.
Robb Satterfield Memorial Award: Thomas Stockdale
Robert Satterfield was a young man who had a dream of graduating from Glens Falls High School. Despite personal challenges, he persevered and graduated in 2008. This award honors a student who has overcome his/her own personal challenges to graduate from Glens Falls High School; someone who is creative, displays courage, and is compassionate toward others.
Marina C. Wallace Memorial Scholarship: Katie Culliton
Mrs. Wallace was a dedicated staff member at Glens Falls High School for more than 25 years. She began her career here in 1977 and enjoyed working with students and faculty through those years as an assistant librarian—helping them discover literature and guiding them in their research for class assignments. Mrs. Wallace is remembered for her kind and giving spirit; someone who demonstrated community and love of family. She had a strong work ethic, was always smiling, and was accepting of everybody. This award is given to a graduating senior planning to attend college who reflects similar qualities, and shares Mrs. Wallace’s interest in literature, reading, and/or writing.
Maria Morgan Memorial Scholarship: Destiny Lilton
This scholarship is established in honor of Maria Morgan, a great friend of the Glens Falls School District and its students. The award is given to a student who is passionate and caring, characteristics of Maria.
William H. Beecher Memorial Award: Destiny Stomski
A graduate of Glens Falls High School, Mr. Beecher was always proud to call himself an Indian. While in school, he worked two jobs and somehow found time to play varsity football. After high school, he joined the Navy to pay for college. He was in the first class of men to graduate from Skidmore College and worked for Pfizer pharmaceuticals for over 30 years. Mr. Beecher was always most proud of his heritage in Glens Falls and that he worked for everything he had. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who has been employed outside of school during the school year with plans to enter college or the military.
Glens Falls Permanent Firemen’s Benevolent Assoc. Scholarship: Sean Pettis
This scholarship is provided by the Glens Falls Permanent Firemen’s Benevolent Association each year to a student planning to attend college. The award is based on character, need, scholastic record, and probable success in college.
Freeman Memorial Scholarship: Dylan Niro
This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who plans to enroll in an elite four-year college or university to study English or journalism. This student must have maintained a high grade point average during his/her high school career.
Jacqueline Tyner Scholarship: Grace Gohn
This scholarship is for a graduating senior who has demonstrated strong character and who makes serving others a priority.
Red and Black Gives Back Honorees: David Barclay, Gabrielle Corentto, Katie Culliton, Judith Derrick, Samantha DiFiore, Samantha Flood, Grace Gohn, Tess Harrington, Neil Hogan, Braeden Hunt, Nikkita Hyrny, Sean Pettis, Caleb Poag, Reagan Rath, Taylor Stone, Lison Tunick
These members of the senior class have volunteered 100 or more hours during their high school years. Thank you for your service to your school and community!