New York State Senator Announces Scholarships for Local Students

Two $3,000 scholarships available to residents of the 5th Senate District

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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New York State Senator Steve Rhoads announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is now accepting applications for two $3,000 scholarships available to residents of the 5th Senate District. The scholarships are open to current college students and high school seniors who plan to attend college.

Why it matters

These scholarships provide financial support to help local students in the 5th Senate District access higher education, which is becoming increasingly costly. The scholarships are a way for the state government to invest in the next generation of leaders from the community.

The details

Eligible students must have a grade point average of 85 or higher, be actively involved in community service and extracurricular activities, demonstrate financial need, and for athletic scholarships, be involved in an organized sport. The application deadline is March 16th and the winners will be announced in April, with an award ceremony in Albany in May.

  • The scholarship application deadline is March 16, 2026.
  • The scholarship winners will be announced in April 2026.
  • The scholarship award ceremony will be held in Albany in May 2026.

The players

Steve Rhoads

New York State Senator representing the 5th Senate District.

New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators

A bipartisan organization of state Assembly and Senate members who actively promote and celebrate the state's Italian American community.

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What they’re saying

“Students from the 5th Senate District have repeatedly distinguished themselves in a highly competitive, statewide selection process. These scholarships are an investment in the next generation of leaders right here in our community.”

— Steve Rhoads, New York State Senator (midislandtimes.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These scholarships demonstrate the state government's commitment to supporting higher education access and investing in the future leaders of the local community.