2011 Recipients

Abbie Rearick
Finger Lakes Community College

When Abbie lost her job as a high school teaching assistant due to district budget cuts she quickly turned her devastation into action. Seeing the opportunity to better herself and model for her three young sons, Abbie enrolled at Finger Lakes Community College to pursue a degree in nursing. With two semesters on the Dean's List, she continues to be active in her children's school and sports activities while also volunteering for Relay for Life. Abbie is a second-year student in nursing at Finger Lakes Community College.

Michael Rosato
Finger Lakes Community College

Active on the Finger Lakes Community College Campus, Michael is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and has been named Geneva Extension Coordinator. He looks forward to completing his degree this year and continuing his education at a four year college to study environmental science, inspired by interests in field biology and environmental law. His full schedule includes part-time work and a devotion to family as he assists his father through intense physical therapy during the past year. Michael is a second-year student at Finger Lakes Community College.

Mason Clark
Geneva High School

Mason has spent his first year at University of Buffalo tackling general education requirements, while contemplating majors to pursue that best fit his many varied interests. He settled on environmental studies, attracted by its call for a healthier environment, and looks forward to research in agriculture, diet, and an exploration of our impact on the planet. In addition to a full academic schedule, Mason has been working close to full time at a Buffalo-area cafe.

Ashley Essom
Geneva High School

Ashley has invested her energies at SUNY Cortland to a successful adjustment to the many changes that happen between a high school and college environment. Devoting herself to her studies and formulating good work habits, Ashley has enjoyed meeting new people and developing a confidence and comfort at her new school. She intends to pursue a degree in biology with the ultimate goal of attending graduate school in physical therapy.

McKenzie Ritter
Geneva High School

McKenzie is an engaged and enthusiastic first year student at Syracuse University, where she is enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences as a psychology major. She was named to the Dean's List in her first semester and holds a job through the work study program.

Francesca Brand
DeSales High School

Francesca entered DePaul with plans to major in psychology through a special five-year program that awards both bachelor and masters degrees. With a strong musical background that includes performance on both piano and alto sax, she is also keeping music in her academic profile. Her favorite first semester course explored the Chicago Blues scene, and opened her eyes to a broad cultural environment that has helped to make DePaul feel like a second home. As she was in high school, Francesca has continued to be active in community service, working with a DePaul club that promotes awareness of concussions among Chicago youths.

Rigan Austin
DeSales High School

Rigan is considering a major or a minor in psychology as he begins his college career at SUNY Brockport. He plays intramural basketball in his spare time, and also sees action in intramural sports as a paid referee through the campus Recreational Services.