Scholarship Funds

ERIC W. ACKNER SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship is given in honor of Eric W. Ackner, graduate of Queensbury High School, Class of 2014. This scholarship is given to a senior student who thinks “outside of the box”, celebrates different ways of learning, respects others, and is internally aware that we all have special talents, uniqueness and abilities to share with each other in a positive and lasting manner.

MARCIA B. AUSTIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Marcia B. Austin worked in the Queensbury Elementary School for many years and, upon her retirement, was elected as a member of the Queensbury Board of Education where she served for several years.

KATIE BEADNELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Katie Beadnell was a member of the Class of 2007 and her class established this fund in her memory. Katie was actively involved in dance, Girl Scouts, and she wished to pursue a career in journalism.

GERARD R. BILODEAU MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship was established by the friends and family of Gerard R. Bilodeau who passed away in 2021. Gerry grew up in the region and went to the University of Connecticut on a full basketball scholarship where he majored in economics. Upon graduation, he returned to the area and began a career at Glens Falls National Bank, which lasted over 40 years. He worked his way through the ranks at the bank and held a variety of positions. By the time he retired in 2009, he was the Senior Vice President of Human Resources. Gerry was a very civic-minded person who volunteered at several organizations that were near and dear to his heart. These included the American Red Cross, United Way, Saint Alphonsus, Saint Mary’s and Saint Paul’s Churches, as well as serving as Corporate Secretary on the board of Arrow Financial Corporation. In 1990, he was one of the founding board members of Queensbury Dollars for Scholars (the now QCSA). He served on this board for about 15 years and was the group’s Treasurer. Legend has it that he never missed a meeting! Although Gerry was tall in stature at 6’9”, he was a quiet and unassuming man. He was a good listener, had a talent for analyzing a situation, and when he spoke, his words had great value. Gerry was always a gentleman, was very hard working and dedicated. In retirement, Gerry was often seen at the YMCA or riding his bicycle throughout the region.

KIM CHASE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Kim Chase was a member of the Class of 1989 who obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Therapy from The College of Saint Rose. Shortly after her college graduation, she died tragically in an automobile accident.

MARLENE M. CONNOLLY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship was established by the friends, family, and colleagues of Marlene M. Connolly who passed away in early 2022. Marlene grew up in Queensbury and graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1964. She went on to obtain her nursing degree in 1967 through St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany. Upon graduation she started working as an Operating Room nurse at Glens Falls Hospital. Later, she became a school nurse, working first at Glens Falls high school and then moving over to the Queensbury school district. Marlene would spend about 20 years providing care to the students of Queensbury. After her retirement, Marlene began a successful second career as a realtor for Berkshire Hathaway. Along the way Marlene met and married Chuck Connolly who taught Math and Chemistry at Queensbury High School for 36 years and served as the QHS golf, cross country and track coach. They had three daughters and 7 grandchildren. Marlene and Chuck were very involved in the Queensbury & Glens Falls community through the school, St. Mary’s Church in Glens Falls and Our Lady of the Annunciation in Queensbury. Marlene was a lovely, smart, loyal, and hard-working person. She had a sunny disposition and had many strong friendships. Through her life, Marlene helped a great number of individuals in need and impacted those lives immeasurably. She loved nothing more than spend her free time with her husband, family, and friends. In 2021, Marlene bravely battled epithelioid sarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer. In early 2022 she succumbed to the disease but left a lasting impression on the hearts of everyone who knew her.

NESBERT R. AND THEA DEHONEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Nes DeHoney was a high school math teacher and department chair for many years. Nes coached several sports over three decades. Thea was a physical education teacher for many years at area school districts, including the BOCES Adult Education Programs, and the women’s adult swim and volleyball leagues.

PETER T. DONNELLY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Peter T. Donnelly served as the Director of Guidance at Queensbury High School, and later served as the administrator in charge of Pupil Personnel Services and Special Education for the Queensbury School District.

JOHN AND TINA DWYER FAMILY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Initially established in 2001 in memory of Tina Dwyer by her husband, John Dwyer. In 2016, John Dwyer passed away and the scholarship was amended by the Dwyer children to include their father. The Dwyer family have always been strong supporters of the Queensbury School District and the Queensbury school soccer program. John Dwyer served with the Queensbury Board of Education, Dollars for Scholars, Senior Citizens and many area youth soccer organizations. 

PATRICK R. EPPEDICO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Patrick Eppedico moved to Queensbury following his retirement as a New Your City Police Officer. The scholarship was established by his wife Ann who worked in the Queensbury High School Attendance Office for several years. His daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and James Cirillo, have been music educators in our district for many years.

GRACE FOOTE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Grace Foote graduated from Queensbury High School one year early in spite of debilitating medical issues. The fund was established by faculty members to honor a senior with strong character who demonstrates courage in the face of adversity.

RAYMOND G. GORDON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Raymond Gordon graduated in 1964 from Whitehall Central School and continued his education at Adirondack Community College and Castleton State, in Castleton, Vermont. He then taught for 33 years at Fort Ann Central School as the Business and Marketing educator. Mr. Gordon served 28 years on the Queensbury Board of Education, 5 years of which he served as board president. He helped establish policies, set educational goals, evaluate programs and develop budgets for Queensbury schools. His efforts, along with those of fellow board members, ensured countless opportunities for students to explore their passions in academics, athletics and the fine and performing arts. He remained a tireless advocate for students even as learning standards, instructional technology, and state and federal priorities changed dramatically. In addition, he received numerous awards from the NYSSBA (New York State School Board Association) for leadership.

SARAH GRYGA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Sarah Gryga was a member of the Class of 2005 and passed away the summer following her high school graduation after a long, courageous battle with cancer. She was a devoted member of the yearbook editorial staff and loved to write.

THE HALL FAMILY ENTREPRENEUR SCHOLARSHIP

The Hall Family has operated the local apparel company, Hallwear, for over 20 years focusing on providing superior customer service with quality products for many sports teams, organizations and companies.  The Hall Family, including Dan Hall Sr. a 1968 Queensbury graduate, has always felt the need to give back to the community that supported Hallwear throughout the years, and this scholarship provides an opportunity to offer a small token of sincere appreciation.

DR. JACK V. IRION MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

The Irion family and members of the school community established this award to recognize Dr. Jack Irion for his 20 years of service as the first Superintendent of the Queensbury School District. He was a fan of all Queensbury sports programs and held the students as his highest priority.

SERGEANT TED B. ISLAS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Sergeant Islas started his 23-year career with the New York State Police in March of 1989. He served in the Watertown and Canton areas as a Trooper before obtaining the rank of Sergeant in 1996. Throughout his tenure, Sergeant Islas was the Malone Station Commander, a counselor at the New York State Police Academy, the Troop B Fitness Coordinator, and finished his career at the Forensic Investigation Center in Albany. Physical fitness and various outdoor activities were very important to Sergeant Islas. He was a man known for his kindness, fairness, honesty and love for his family.

DANIEL KANE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Dan Kane graduated from Queensbury High School in 1972 and worked as a social studies teacher at the school for 15 years. Dan set the bar high for his students and was always pleased when former students thanked him for preparing them for life after high school. Dan was an advisor for Youth and Government & Mock Trial, a geography professor at SUNY Adirondack, a high school basketball referee, and an off-ice hockey official. Dan was a dedicated member of our community who spent many hours at the YMCA working out and socializing with friends, on the boards of the YMCA, Adirondack Mountain Club, and Adirondack 46r’s, a summit steward in the high peaks, a member of the Lower Adirondack Search & Rescue and Therapy Dogs International with his dog Marcy, and a security guard at SPAC. Dan lost his battle with cancer in August 2019. As Dan would always say to anyone who would listen, please remember to pay it forward with, “…just a few kind words.”

WILLIAM J. LANSIEDEL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Bill Lansiedel passed away in February of 2008. He taught chemistry for several years and served as a High School Counselor for Queensbury for over thirty years. He was an active member, and one of the original founders, of the now called Adirondack Counselors’ Association.

NATHAN ALAN LINCK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Nathan passed away following a long illness. He was the son of Alan & Penny Linck. Alan Linck was a health and science teacher and coach at the Queensbury Middle School for many years. Nathan went on to further his studies at St. Lawrence University. He was very interested in Environmental Sciences.

DR. DONALD LOMANTO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Dr. Lomanto served as the Queensbury District Superintendent who was known for his positive outlook and visionary leadership. This scholarship was initiated by the community in his memory and honor.

NINO MANZELLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Nino was passionately involved in Queensbury’s Cross Country Running and Nordic Ski Programs at the parent level. As a spirited enthusiast for both sports, Nino deeply supported the individual athlete at all levels, and each of the programs as a whole. Nino embraced the principles of hard work, team unity, optimism and positive loyalty in all aspects of his life, and thus, honored athletes who also demonstrated and embodied these same goals for daily living.

ROGER MARCY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Roger was a teacher and administrator at Queensbury High School for 35 years. He began his career in the district as an English teacher in 1962, served as the Assistant Principal starting in 1974, and became the Principal in 1990. Following his retirement in 1998, he continued to serve his community as a Queensbury Board of Education member as well as serving three years as Principal at St. Mary’s/St. Alphonsus Regional Catholic School in Glens Falls, and later, at a private parochial school in the state of Utah.

CLAIRE MCINTYRE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Claire McIntyre served the Queensbury School District over several decades as administrative secretary to both William Barton, the district’s first Superintendent, and to Dr. Jack V. Irion, the district’s second Superintendent of Schools. She was a very dedicated employee who always maintained a vibrant sense of humor and the ability to help new district staff members feel welcome and at home here.

MALCOLM MCINTYRE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Mal McIntyre was a member of the Queensbury Middle School Faculty who served primarily in grade 6. The scholarship was established by his wife, Claire who served many years as secretary to the District Superintendent.

CODY MILLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Cody Miller was a member of the Class of 2010. He was a bright and witty young man who possessed a strong character. He enjoyed his friends and family. The scholarship honors his memory. The family is proud to recognize and reward the fine young recipients for their character and achievement.

JEFFRY MORRISON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

The Jeffry Morrison scholarship was established by his family in 1999 the year Jeffry would have graduated. While a student at Queensbury Middle School, Jeffry died tragically in a bicycle accident. Jeffry’s favorite sport was baseball.

HENRY D. OLSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship was established by the family and friends of Henry D. Olson in January, 2020. Henry graduated from Queensbury High School in 2016 and passed away due to complications from a medical condition. Henry will always be remembered for his infectious smile that would light up a room. He was a kind and thoughtful person who had a great sense of humor. He was an actor both on and off the stage. Henry had a passion for theater, and during his high school years, performed in three of the school’s musicals. He was a member of the Hudson River Shakespeare Company, performed with the SUNY Adirondack Theater Program, and also with the Lake Theater at the Holiday Inn in Lake George. Henry had many passions including history, camping, cats, video games, Jeeps, the Washington Capitals, the New York Jets, and being with his family. Henry was completing his degree in Automobile Technology at the time of his passing.

MARK ORLOSKY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Mark Orlosky was a well-known local musician who passed away in 2018. He played the keyboard, guitar, and had a passion for songwriting. In addition to performing regionally, Mark worked with his son Brandon designing sound systems for other musical performance groups and bands. This scholarship is intended to assist a student who has a similar passion for music.

ROBERT B. PATCH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Robert Patch served as the first Principal of the Queensbury Middle School; served our country during WWII; and was an active member of the Queensbury Chapter of Foreign Wars. For many years, he served as chairman of the Boys’ State Selection Committee and is remembered for his leadership in the field of education.

JOHN QUIRK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

John Quirk was a much loved and respected English Teacher and department chair at Queensbury High School for several decades. His humor, kindness and talent endeared him to students and colleagues alike. An accomplished poet, Mr. Quirk’s works were published in Three Adirondack Poets, among other publications of The Loft Press – a local literary magazine which he co-founded. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Crandall Library. Whenever he found a book he loved, he would often buy it and share it with his many friends.

SHIRLEY ROACH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 

Shirley Roach was employed by the Queensbury School District for over 50 years. She is best known for her dedication to the students of Queensbury, for her positive attitude and outlook on life, her love of learning and her love for her job. Mrs. Roach began working at Queensbury as a member of the cafeteria staff and was later asked to accept a position in the K-6 office, which at the time was located in the current middle school. In the late 1960’s, Mrs. Roach took over as head of the 3-4 office in the newly built elementary school. Eventually, Mrs. Roach became the middle school guidance secretary where she helped many students and faculty on a daily basis. During her career, Mrs. Roach touched the lives of multiple generations in the Queensbury community.

BETTY ROOKE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Betty Rooke was a member of the Queensbury High School faculty. She taught English, with a special interest in literature, and served as the advisor for the school’s musical stage productions over the years.

LEE SANFORD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Lee Sanford was an investment banker. He was a competitive athlete who excelled in football, was a great team player, and had good sportsmanship.

WILLIAM W. STARK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship was established by the estate of William W. Stark who passed away in March 2020 at the age of 90. Bill taught in the English department of Queensbury High School from 1979 until 1992 and was responsible for the introduction of the AP English program. He will always be remembered for his love of a good story. Upon his retirement, he moved to Cape Cod and taught courses in the Lifelong Learning program for over 20 years. During his tenure at QHS, he was beloved and respected by his students and colleagues. 

THE NICOL/STEWART CLAN FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

Wendy was a local pre-school teacher, nurse and PTA member for many years. Ron was a valued member of the Queensbury School Board, PTSA, and current contributor to the SUNY Adirondack Foundation. Wendy and Ron had three children, who all graduated from Queensbury High School. Education was, and is, a strong force in the Stewart family’s lives. Both Wendy and Ron were, and are, known as fair and kind members in our community, supporting Habitat for Humanity, SUNY Adirondack, and local businesses. The entire family acknowledges the positive impact that the Queensbury School District has had on their personal successes.

CATHERINE FLEMING TERRY: WOMEN IN STEM SCHOLARSHIP

Catherine Fleming Terry was the oldest of nine children of Irish immigrants. After high school, she left the family farm, enrolled in Albany State Teachers’ College, which was “tuition-free” after World War II as she could not attend college otherwise, and lived with local families, doing housework for them in exchange for a place to live. She came to Queensbury High School after earning her Master’s degree, working here from ~ 1950 to 1982. She was faculty advisor for several groups, including the National Honor Society. She believed that a good education was the path to self-sufficiency and independence.

 AL AND LEE WEHLITZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship was established in 2014 by Dr. John Hicks and his family in memory of his parents, Al and Lee Wehlitz. Dr. Hicks and his family moved to Queensbury where he and his wife enrolled their children in the school district. Although Al and Lee had no ties to the area, they were strong supporters of the performing arts and arts education.

ANNE WHITE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

In September 1963, when the first separate high school building was opened on the Queensbury school campus, Anne White was in charge of setting up the new library. During her time as the high school librarian, Anne further served the district as a yearbook advisor for several graduating classes, and she also helped establish the first career exploration and education program in cooperation with the guidance office. Many of the ideas she set forth through this program exist for the students of Queensbury even today. Anne’s interest in literature was coupled with a lifelong passion for writing, which became more evident following her retirement from the school system. Over a period of several years, Anne wrote several mystery novels that incorporated many features of Lake George and life in this area. She was the recipient of the Malice Domestic Unpublished Writer Grant in 1999, and her first novel won the 2000 Dark Oak Mystery Contest.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AWARD

Community involvement, positive energy and service are the hallmark traits possessed by students selected for the Community Involvement Award which is presented each year by the Queensbury Community Scholarship Association.

SCHOOL CITIZEN AWARD

This award is presented to those students who embody the qualities of school spirit, fine character and the exceptional willingness to fully embrace school-related activities.  

CLASS OF 20– AWARD

The Class of 20– Scholarship was established to honor those students who were especially helpful with the Phone-a-thon efforts. These enthusiastic seniors embody commitment, school spirit and dedication, in addition to being heavily involved in a number of other school and community endeavors.