Awarded to seniors who have taken 4 or more Art courses including Advanced Art and maintained a 95+ average.

Art Achievement

Awarded to seniors who demonstrated enthusiastic participation in the Arts at Columbia High School.

Addison Phoenix

Gabriella Pugliese

Hannah Scarano

Jacob Simpson

Savannah Tenace

Richard Turoski

Lillia Walsh

Emmarie Weeks

Haley Aiken

Julia Bariteau

Zoey Brandt

Alexis Bulan

Isabella Cohen

Lindsey Conboy

Ella Conway

Melody Diaz

Schuyler Lorette

Isabella Maguffin

Noelle Maloney

Amy Novak

Madison Oathout

Kyra Russo

Makenna Salway

Emma Slawson

Alexandra Torelli

Lucinda Whipple

Albany City Lodge No. 540 Knights of Pythias Achievement Award presented for extra-curricular activities and/or community endeavors.

Presented to two outstanding Driver Education students who distinguish themselves in the skills and attitudes that make a safe driver.

Kevin Stegemann

Edward Witko lived for his family, friends and chosen profession.  In his ten year career in law enforcement, he served with honesty, integrity and loyalty and was admired by all.  He trained with an intensity that gave all who knew him comfort in knowing that he was part of us.  In August of 2010, Officer Edward L. Witko died tragically while participating in a motorcycle benefit run for Combat Veterans.  This scholarship will be dedicated to the memory of Edward Witko, #29.

Nicholas was a person of great integrity and was always willing to help anyone in need. He cared deeply for others and acted as a beacon for those in dark places. He always had a genuine desire to help animals of all types and possessed a love of music, sports and creativity. His humor brought about his infectious laugh. People from all over the world migrated to Nicholas for comfort and support in which he was always willing to give.  The scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who exhibits many of the same characteristics that defined Nicholas: kindness, courage, humility and a strong commitment to helping others.

Karah Whitman

The scholarship is awarded to two graduating seniors who exhibit many of the same characteristics that defined Patsy: kind, polite, caring, athletic, positive, friendly, simple, and made people feel good about themselves .

Karah Whitman

Perfect Attendance – All Four Years of High School

Perfect Attendance – All 12 Years

Abhinav Gudapati

Kendra Phoenix

Nidhi Shah

Stefanie Simkins

Kelly Bryant

Jamison Burke

Logan Brisson

Grace Brody

Kelly Bryant

Katherine Duda

Abigail Farnan

Justine Fournier

Nicholas Gabriel

Alexander Gore

Gabriella Pugliese

Kason Romanowski

Nina Tedeschi

Mary Thaler

Volunteer with Distinction Award

Grace Brody

Lindsey Conboy

Grace Davis

Michael Digman

Maya MacDonald

Jacob Memole

Noah Millan

Oliver Olds

Liat Radetsky

Nidhi Shah

Jacob Simpson

Brandon Smith

Nina Tedeschi 

In recognition of their academic excellence in Economics.

Kendra Phoenix

Ariana Wynne

Betul Yucedal

Leadership Award

Constant Contributor Award

Making A Difference Award

Liat Radetsky

Grace Davis

Best demonstrated the ideals of Key Club through service and leadership. 

Jared Meisel

Awarded to two seniors who have displayed exceptional leadership qualities in club functions and meetings.

Collin Dougherty

Outstanding Service Award for Layout and Design Editing

Award for Excellence in Journalism Certificate of Appreciation

Award for Excellence in Journalism

Award of Recognition for Contributing Copy Editor and Web Designer

Certificate of Appreciation Contributing Editor / Recognition of Editor 

Columbia Tae Kwon Do 

Awarded to the graduating senior in recognition of their excellence in community service and being a positive role model.

Katharine Asenbauer

Morgen Doyle

Benson Haley

Madeline Ingoldsby

Sophie Meyer

Violet Nichols

Joseph Vitali

Benson Haley

Katharine Asenbauer

Morgen Doyle

Madeline Ingoldsby

Benson Haley

Tyler Williams

This award recognizes a senior who has consistently demonstrated commitment, perseverance, attendance and outstanding achievement in the Literacy Lab.  

Presented to the junior student who has achieved excellence in academic studies while participating in worthwhile extra-curricular activities.

Given by The Smith College Club of Albany to an outstanding junior who exemplifies academic achievement, leadership qualities and concern for others.

To a junior in the top 5% of his class who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a significant contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school.

Awarded to a senior who is chosen because of her hard work and individuality.

Awarded to a junior in recognition of high school achievement, leadership, citizenship and participation in extracurricular activities.

Awarded to a senior who has contributed significantly to an understanding of a love for dramatic works within our school and/or community.

Awarded to the senior who has consistently demonstrated a passion for the English Language and achieved excellence within English studies for four years.

Awarded to a student who has demonstrated a concerted effort in all English classes and has shown significant advancement in reading, writing and analytical skills.

Awarded to two juniors who exhibit characteristics of academic excellence, student leadership and community involvement.

Ainsley Clinton

Awarded to a junior who exhibits both the characteristics of an ideal St. Michael student, based specifically on achievement in academics and community service and who has taken on leadership roles within their community service endeavors.

This award recognizes academic achievement in the study of a foreign language.

French

German

Spanish

This award recognizes effort, commitment and enthusiasm to the study of a foreign language.

French

German

Spanish

Noelle Maloney

Chesney Romer

Alexis O’Brien

Gabriella Pugliese

Katherine Duda

Talia Bennett

This award is presented to the most considerate senior in the graduating class.

Awarded to the student who has shown significant assistance to Columbia staff.

Presented to members of the junior class who demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities and have made positive contributions to both school and community.  They will qualify for a tuition scholarship should they choose to enroll at Clarkson University.

Leadership

Achievement

David Adadjo

Krystal Li

Awarded to students who have been active participants in Columbia’s chapter of FBLA

and have successfully led the members to reach the goals of this National Organization.

Harley Quinn

Victoria Salvatore

Each year a distinguished group of students are selected and recognized by Wells College for their leadership ability, community involvement and academic excellence.  This award honors commitment to academics and student leadership.  This program is designed to honor these students who embody the spirit, integrity and intellectual qualities of a strong leader.

The following students have demonstrated high academic achievement in business courses. 

In addition, these students have proven good character, leadership, and service in business education.

Christopher Harris

Connor Leddick

Raymond Mahar

Benjamin McHugh

Harley Quinn

Kason Romanowski

Given to a senior business student who has excelled in Business Education in memory of all departed members of the East Greenbush School Related Personnel support staff.

Excellence in Accounting

Excellence in Personal Finance

Most Improved Business Education Award

Sean Neeson

Christopher Harris 

Raymond Mahar

Connor Leddick

For achievement in mathematics and science for engineering inspiration.

Bailey Tator

Columbia High School has participated in the NYS Mathematics League for more than 25 years.  There are six contests during the school year which draw problems from a wide range of high school topics.  Out of more than 140 Columbia students who participated, this student achieved the highest score.

To recognize the superlative academic achievement of young men and women as well as promising juniors who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science.

Biology

Chemistry

Earth Science

Environmental Science

Forensics

Physics

Cumulative Excellence in Science

Harinisri Conji

Theodore Howard

Nathan Geng

Anna Hallock

Nicholas Pugliese

Justine Fournier

Madison Campbell

Owen Ball

Ryan Allen

Owen Ball

Justine Fournier

Nina Tedeschi

A three year course which by the end, students must create and perform in an authentic research experiment under the direction of a supervising scientist.  A rigorous program which requires time management skills, presentation and writing skills, and research skills in both publication format to develop the experimental question and original hypothesis and also in a laboratory setting.  The following seniors have stood the test of time and completed the three year program in grand fashion.

Comparison of Carbon and Boron Fibers in Composite Materials

Are YAP and TAZ Essential in Oligodendrocyte-Mediated Myelination?

The Impact of Social Media Use on Adolescent School Connectedness

The Effect of Oxybenzone of Freshwater Daphnia

The Influence of The APOE Gene and Traumatic Brain Injury on The Frequency of LOAD

The Correlation Between Age of Gonadectomy and Behavioral Issues in Dogs

Hayden Butterfield

Grace Davis

Spencer Lahaie

Logan Plowinske

Chesney Romer

Alexis White

Best Actor

Best Actress

Best Supporting Actor

Best Supporting Actress

Outstanding Achievement in Stage Management

Elias Wein

Meaghan Almon

Brianna Bujak

Brigid Mack

Benson Haley

Aidan Halsey

Marianna Loomis

Morgen Doyle

Freshman

Sophomore

Junior 

Senior

Nathan Geng

Krystal Li

Owen Ball

Awarded to a high school junior who has displayed a significant commitment to community service.

This award recognizes high school juniors who have distinguished themselves academically, are active and involved members of their school and community, and demonstrate outstanding achievement in innovation, creativity or entrepreneurship.

Benson Haley

This award recognizes high school juniors who have distinguished themselves academically, are active and involved members of their school and community and demonstrates interest and ability in computing.

Matthew Strodl

Lucinda Whipple

Presented to the student who has shown excellence in academics, citizenship and exemplifies kindness to others.

Given to a student who will attend college and has an outgoing personality and a drive to succeed in all of life’s ventures and challenges.

Presented to a senior who demonstrates an overwhelming desire to promote equality, acceptance and respect for all within our school community.

This award is presented for achievement in American History.

Awarded to a student who has demonstrated commitment to understanding and addressing difficult social issues as well as showing leadership and a dedication to community action.  Strong grades and rigorous courses taken throughout their years in the humanities and social sciences.

Awarded to two students who have demonstrated proficiency in the study of U.S. History and understanding of its Constitution.

Performance by CHS Chamber Singers

Nina Tedeschi

Presented to a student who, at the end of their junior year, has obtained the highest academic average in the sciences.

Awarded to the student who has shown strong leadership, high grades with challenging courses and extensive involvement in extracurricular activities.  The award recognizes future leaders who may have an impact on our world.

Presented to a member of the junior class who shares in the pursuit of innovative approaches and appreciation for the possibilities of technology.

Seniors demonstrating academic excellence and exemplary citizenship in the high school community and who are interested in pursuing post-secondary education in one of the designated areas.

Ashley Doherty

Isabelle Lewis

Logan Plowinske

Awarded to a student who is either a child or grandchild of a public safety officer or pursuing a career in law enforcement in honor of Police Detective Timothy J. Murphy of the Albany Police Department.

Student who has excelled academically and shown leadership potential by volunteering time to serve the school or community.

Auria Redick

In recognition for promoting tolerance, endorsing diversity and demonstrating friendship to a fellow student in a recognized and responsible manner.

Recognizes students who, by their character, courage and commitment, reflect the highest values in their school and the community.

Oliver Olds

To recognize students who demonstrate a commitment to volunteering and are actively serving their community with their time and talents.  We honor these students who exhibit sustained commitment to service to their community.  

Savannah Tenace

Awarded for academic achievement and community service.

Garrett McDonald

Nathan Terry is a loveable, energetic and fun boy who happens to have Down Syndrome.  He has been receiving therapy services since 5-weeks old, so we have the utmost respect and admiration for all the amazing people who have helped and supported him along his journey.  Without the unconditional love and support of those who enter into the world of special needs, life for Nathan and so many others would be very different.  Therefore, we wanted to honor his ‘A-Team’ of specialists and all those with the compassion and drive to help families/children with special needs by creating this award.

The scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior who exhibits many of the same characteristics that defined Keara: kindness, courage, and commitment to help others.

Established in 2004 to commemorate Christopher’s life that was taken away so tragically by a hit and run driver.  To honor and perpetuate Christopher’s memory, financial assistance will be awarded to deserving seniors who possess and exhibit many of the same qualities that made Chris such a special and fine young man.  His spirit, which truly defined him, was his compassion and willingness to help others; his enthusiasm, delightful sense of humor and fun loving personality; his motivation that brought out the best in others; his love of history and great interest in sports and most importantly his loyalty, love and devotion to his family and friends.

Lily Mahoney

Nicholas Gabriel

Presented to two seniors who demonstrate an outstanding work ethic, motivation to excel, personal integrity, compassion for others, and a strong interest in business or science.

Lindsey Conboy

US Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award

US Marine Semper Fidelis Award for Musical

Anthony J. Cozzy

Liat Radetsky

Senior boy and girl who are outstanding in qualities of honor, courage, scholarship, leadership, and service.

Kason Romanowski

Awarded to a senior girl who exhibits charity, truth and loving kindness. 

Presented to a Senior who is a leader on the Science Olympiad team.

The Foundation offers a monetary award to be given to a senior who plans to pursue a career in professional nursing and has participated in school activities.

This scholarship is awarded to a student accepted to a college and major in an engineering field, who demonstrates high academic achievement, exhibits community involvement/volunteerism and is civic-minded.

Awarded to a senior who has demonstrated academic excellence in social studies using effective writing and research as well as showing civic responsibility and good citizenship.

To a senior whose parent has been deployed and who demonstrates excellence in the patriotic principles of the VFW, leadership and love of country.

Presented to a student who has achieved outstanding accomplishments in the field of science and has demonstrated exceptional scientific curiosity or potential.

Awarded to a sophomore who has maintained a strong academic record in the sciences during the first two years of high school.

To a senior who has consistently demonstrated excellence in English expression combined with a deep respect for the traditions of literature.

Awarded to an English 9R or 11R student who demonstrated high academic standards and a strong background in community service.

4 year – Student enrolled in a 4 year program leading to a teaching certificate.

2 year – Student enrolled in a 2 year program leading to an associates degree.

Isabelle Lewis

Certificate of Excellence recognizing academic achievement, service in the community and interest in pursuing a career in Engineering.

Presented to a senior who is entering the business or communication fields, who has shown commitment to volunteerism, and who has displayed extraordinary teamwork and dedication in athletics or other extracurricular activities.  Presented by Ryan Farnan and family who are grateful for the support, lessons and friendships received as part of the East Greenbush community.

Presented to a senior who plans on entering the field of medicine and who has displayed exceptional academic ability and community service

Honors outstanding scholastic achievement by members of the graduating class of schools in the Capital District.  The program also honors those teachers nominated by each student scholar for having had a significant and beneficial influence on his or her education. 

Nina Tedeschi

Awarded to a student who excelled academically and volunteered in the community.