2023 Columbian Awards

Allison Beattie

Laney Broglio

Zoe Collins

Isabelle Crossman

Sofia Fruggiero

Brooke Hadley

Tanner Malone

Thomas Molloy

Jenna Prescott

Michelina Rowny

Lillian Thomas

Katelyn Watts

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

Perfect Attendance – All Four Years of High School

Henry Heeps

The following PIG Projects were selected as the winners at our Fall and Spring Assemblies.

Closing the Gap

Winning Bill – Spring 2023

$600 1099 Form Reversal

Emma Hart

Alaina Marino

Grace Muamba

Logan Bradshaw

Sean-Paul Charland

Henry Dreisenstock

Colby Hoffman

In recognition of their academic excellence in Economics.

Madison Arsenault

Jack Bennett

Hayden Brady

Sarah Donovan

Christian Goodermote

Naim Greenberg-Nielsen

Julia Harbour

Jenna Lallier

Isabella Marte

Nicholas Pugliese

Mylah Rosbozom

Kathleen Szczesniak

Justine Senecal

Jescyka Thompson

Spring Semester

Akshat Arinav

Jacob Baker

Harinisri Conji

Julianna Demers

Madeline Epping

Austin Ernst

Naim Greenberg-Nielsen

Theodore Howard

Emily Koenig

Dylan Marx

Akkhil Morkonda

Kaelyn Pagones

Shea Thorpe

Jake Tucker

Maile Wargacki

Seana Weerakoon

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

Maha Khair

Anna Reilly

This award is presented in recognition of your enthusiastic commitment to Key Club

Madison Groves

Lauren Prusky

Eva Roberts

Presented to a student member of the blood drive recruitment team for his or her dedication and hard work in assisting Columbia with its blood drive goal for the 2022-2023 school year.

Presented to a Student Council member who has demonstrated exceptional leadership for all four years of high school.

Presented to an active Student Council member who has not held an elected position but has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the school community above and beyond her peers.

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

Outstanding Service Award for Layout and Design Editor in Chief

Outstanding Service Award for Contributing Editor

Certificate of Appreciation

Maya Derico

Sydney Gier

Molly Graiff

Joshua Trop

Drea VanVranken

Awarded to a junior in the top 5% of the graduating class who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a significant contribution to the extracurricular life of the school.

Caitlin Weinheimer

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 junior who has achieved excellence in academic studies while participating in worthwhile extracurricular activities

Commitment to Advancement in English Language Arts Award

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.

Madeline Hansen

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

Molly Graiff

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

Awarded to those that have a keen interest in service, celebrating diversity, students who demonstrate an interest in acquiring a great depth of broad knowledge at a liberal arts institution, and those who will embrace the mission and values of St. Bonaventure.

Samuel Desany

Hailey Jakielaszek

Abigail Prusky

Awarded to one student in recognition of outstanding character and academic curiosity.

Awarded to a student who demonstrates a solid mathematical and scientific background while also excelling in English. 

Nominated junior who has established a strong academic record and is an engaged member of their school and community.

Presented to a sophomore who embodies strong performance in the classroom and who wants to make a difference in this ever-evolving world.   

Giovanni LaPietra

This is awarded to students who exhibit the characteristics of an ideal St. Michael student, based specifically on achievement in academics and community service.   

Kamilla Conboy

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

Awarded to a junior who has demonstrated both outstanding dedication to scholarship inside the classroom and impressive duty to citizenship outside the classroom.

Recipient is chosen because of his or her hard work and individuality.

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.

Aiden Dailey (Leadership)

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.

Christopher Uttendorfer 

This award recognizes academic achievement in the study of world language.

Camdyn Erwell (German)

Shea Thorpe (Spanish)

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

Julia Harbour (German)

Isabella Marte (Spanish)

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.

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.

Tori Patrissy

Jescyka Thompson

Successful Completion of a Technical Endorsement in Business

The following students have successfully completed 3.5 credits of business courses (some of which students earned Hudson Valley Community College credits). Students have completed a Pathway in Accounting/Finance, Business Management Administration and/or Computer Applications for Business to obtain a Technical Endorsement on their Diploma through the New York State Education Department.

Jescyka Thompson

Henry Collins

Jake Baker

Kyle Blake

Joseph Demarest

Jescyka Thompson

Peyton Walters

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.

Kyle Blake

Alyssa Cronkhite

Joseph Demarest

Madeline Hansen

Grayson Przybylek

Arricca Silliman

Jescyka Thompson

Peyton Walters

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.

Kyle Blake

Recognition for Achievement in Business Courses

Recognition for Most Improved in Business Courses

Alyssa Cronkhite

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

Freshman

Sophomore

Junior 

Senior

Evan Rainville

Shane Baker

Akshat Arinav

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.

Akkhil Morkonda

Best Actor

Best Actress

Best Actress

Best Supporting Actor

Best Supporting Actress

Best “Best Friend”

Best “Best Friend”

Best Ensemble Member

Best Ensemble Member

Best Stage Manager

Emma O’Kane

Lucia Soliman

Kaden Witte

Molly Graiff

Allison Hedgepeth

Elianah Kong

Reid Schiermeyer

Shaylee Hanshe

Luke Savage

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

Niyah Ventrice

Maile Wargacki

Piper Gardner

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

Presented to a student for their Dedication to the Club and Publication

Evan Rainville (Chemistry)

Aneira Bailey (Earth Science)

Kyle Hebler (Environmental Science)

Theodore Howard (Physics)

Akshat Arinav (Cumulative Excellence in Science)

Austin Ernst (Cumulative Excellence in Science)

Theodore Howard (Cumulative Excellence in Science)

Alaina Marino (Cumulative Excellence in Science)

Tori Patrissy (Cumulative Excellence in Science)

To be a graduate of this program, students must create and perform authentic research experiments under the direction of a supervising scientist.  Science research is a rigorous program which requires time management skills, presentation and writing skills, and research skills in a laboratory or field setting.  Students have spent hundreds of hours on their projects and they should be very proud  The following seniors have stood the test of time and completed the three year program in grand fashion.

Zachary Booth

Laney Broglio

Harinisri Conji

Emily Koenig

Alaina Marino

Nicholas Pugliese

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:

Art and Design

Business and Leadership

Humanities and Social Sciences

Science and Math

Women in STEM

Matthew Kardash

Rachel Clarke

Neil Paul

Shannon Breimer

Awarded to students that demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, service, social responsibility, integrity, and an appreciation for diversity.

Berlinda Fleurimond

Teagan Kreshik

Rachel Skumurski

Honors the memory of Leonard Michon who was a beloved teacher and Supervisor of Social Studies in East Greenbush for many years.  Given to the student who has demonstrated outstanding character, scholarship, leadership and service.

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

Brian Tobin

Membership in RHO KAPPA is an honor bestowed

upon a student by a local chapter for his or her

accomplishments in the field of social studies and

overall academic achievement.

Madison Arsenault

Jacob Baker

Jake Baker

Zachary Booth

Laney Broglio

Hariharan Conji

Harinisri Conji

Sarah Donovan

Christian Goodermote

Naim Greenberg-Nielsen

Julia Harbour

Natalie Herkenham

Emily Koenig

Joshua McKinney

Grace Muamba

Tori Patrissy

Zachary Teresco

Shea Thorpe

Brian Tobin

Jake Tucker

Seana Weerakoon

Evan Witte

Aidan Yonally

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.

Social Studies/English Language Arts

Mathematics/Science

Career and Technical Education/Business

Julia Harbour

Henry Heeps

Laney Broglio

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.

Tanner Silvernell

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

Jarius Scott

Awarded for academic achievement and community service 

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.

Isaac Ladd

This award recognizes graduating seniors who are pursuing further education in Cosmetology, Business and Criminal Justice.

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.

Christian Goodermote

Jescyka Thompson

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

This scholarship was started in 2022 to honor the legacy of a beloved Special Education Teacher at Columbia High School. This award is given to a graduating senior from the Academic Skills Program that embodies the characteristics of kindness, patience, positivity, and acceptance.

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

Awarded to seniors who have volunteered their time in serving the technology needs of their fellow students and who intend to pursue a career in the technology field. 

Awarded to a student who exhibits the Republican values of freedom, individualism, and patriotism.  

The foundation offers a monetary award to be given to a senior who plans to pursue a career in professional nursing. 

Presented to a junior or senior student who performs outstanding community service.

The Doug and Lynda Porter Scholarship Committee will award one scholarship in the amount of $500 to a Columbia High School graduating senior who has excelled in and has a genuine interest in math and music.  This award was made possible by the generous gift of Mr. and Mrs. Porter who were longtime teachers in the music and math departments in the EGCSD. The recipient chosen best exemplifies a well-rounded academic and musical individual.

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 student who shares in the pursuit of innovative approaches and has appreciation for the possibilities of technology.

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.

Presented to students who exemplify the principles of the Elks, which is to bring charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity to your community.

Amanda Shufelt

This award is given to two students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership on the field of play, in the classroom, and in the community.

Helen McHugh

Presented to a senior based on their academics, athletics, community service, extracurricular activities and essay.

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.

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

Laney Broglio

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

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

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

Presented to a senior who plans on 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.

This scholarship is awarded to a student accepted to a college and major in an education and career in elementary education. 

Awarded to a senior who has demonstrated a continued commitment to community service.

Awarded to graduating seniors who have navigated hardships, are dealing with adversity, or have overcome adversity.

Christian Goodermote

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

Presented to students who have best exemplified not only being sensitive to those around them, but have gone out of their way to help. 

Lucas Jensen

Presented to members of the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rensselaer County 4-H Teen Ambassador Council for their 

outstanding achievements and allegiance to Rensselaer County 4-H.

For over forty-five years, thousands of US high schools have chosen this award to honor their most deserving senior band student.  The Sousa Award recognizes superior musicianship, leadership, dependability, loyalty and cooperation; qualities that directors strive to develop in all students.

This award is given in the memory of a Jazz Band student who died in an alcohol-related incident and is given to the senior who best demonstrates the spirit that was Justin Russell – enthusiasm, dedication and a love for playing. 

Given to a senior who has shown outstanding performance and commitment to the orchestra.

Ava Zeolla

Given to a senior who has shown outstanding performance and commitment to the chorus

Aidan Halsey

Jazz

Orchestra 

Harinisri Conji

Lucy Nguyen

The Eastman Award recognizes a high school junior who has demonstrated superior musicianship on his or her instrument and has contributed positively to the school musical environment.