Oneida Times

New York State Senator Joseph Griffo announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is now accepting applications for four scholarships, each valued at $3,000. These scholarships are divided into two categories: academic and athletic.

The opportunity is open to New York residents who are either current college students or high school seniors planning to enter college. Applicants must reside in the district of a conference member. Senator Griffo's district includes all of Oneida and Madison counties and parts of Herkimer and Chenango counties.

To qualify, applicants should maintain a grade point average of 85 or higher, be involved in community service and extracurricular activities, and demonstrate financial need. For those applying for an athletic scholarship, participation in organized sports is also required. Notably, applicants do not need to be of Italian American heritage.

The announcement of scholarship recipients will occur in April, with winners being honored at a ceremony in Albany. Students interested in applying can find the application form online at https://www.nyiacsl.org/apply-for-scholarship-form. The deadline for submission is 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 30.

Senator Griffo highlighted the importance of these scholarships by stating, "The price of attending college is a very serious concern for many students and families throughout New York State. This is a chance to help students lessen the burden of college debt and to defray some of the expenses incurred when seeking higher education. I encourage every eligible student in my district to apply for this scholarship."

The New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators consists of bipartisan state Assembly and Senate members who support and celebrate the state's Italian American community. Senator Griffo has been actively involved with the Conference and has previously served as its President.