Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union (OFFCU) has awarded its annual Patrick McNeill Memorial Scholarship to four members who are graduating high school seniors headed to college, to help further their education. Each student will receive $2,000 to go toward school-related expenses.
Each of the four winning students were judged based on their academic achievement and their community involvement, aligning with the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People '' and OFFCU’s Catholic values. They also wrote essays discussing what Catholic values inspired them throughout their lives and what it means to be a trusted partner in their community.
The four winning students are:
Megan Monoghan, graduated from Kellenberg Memorial High School in Uniondale, NY. Monoghan plans to attend South Carolina Honors College in Columbia, SC. “Throughout my life, I have been the happiest when I can assist others. Helping others has filled my heart with indescribable joy. Throughout the rest of my life, I will continue to look for ways that I can help the people around me.”
Annelise Whelan, graduated from Long Beach Senior High School in Long Beach, NY. Whelan plans to attend the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. “As humans, we often underestimate the impact of our existence. Whether we realize it or not, even our smallest actions hold immense power. I have been blessed with many opportunities, in which I have witnessed the significance of this fact. In helping others, I have discovered some of my biggest passions, made new connections within my community, and found a sense of belonging. I simply feel most fulfilled when I’m making others happier.”
Victoria Gamarra, graduated from Oceanside High School in Oceanside, NY. Gamarra plans to attend College of Saint Vincent in The Bronx, NY. “There are multiple individuals less fortunate than others, and it is our responsibility to share the gifts and blessings we have with them. As easy as it is to adopt the notion that someone else will help, we must exhibit compassion and empathy to those around us regardless of our differences.”
Holly Strang, graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in Melville, NY. Strang plans to attend University of Wisconson-Madison located in Madison, WI. “I strive to lead my life according to what is preached to us everyday; kindness, generosity, patience, forgiveness and understanding.”
Photo of the scholarship winners attached, left to right, Megan Monaghan, Annelise Whelan, Victoria Gamarra, Holly Strang and Don Maresca, Chairman of the Patrick McNeill Memorial Scholarship Committee. Credit, Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union.