Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) President RoseAnn Vernice participated in Garden City High School’s Senior Awards Ceremony in June, presenting the following scholarships to:
Sara Aquino, who received the WPOA Scholarship in Memory of Past Presidents John F. Traxler, Paul J. Muscarella and Thomas Whalen. Sara is heading off to college to pursue a career in early childhood education. At Garden City High School, Sara participated in Key Club during her four years, and had served as Vice President. Her volunteer service during high school included Christmas gift wrapping, the Prom dress drive through the Fashion Club, and the Thanksgiving Senior Class Food and coat drives. At the GC Public Library, she participated in the annual Get-Well Card event, by creating and inspiring well wishes. She volunteered in the St. Anne’s Youth Ministry, and was a Girl Scout, achieving the prestigious Gold Award.
Natalie Palmeri, who received the WPOA Association Scholarship, plans to attend Kent State University, pursuing a career in fashion as a merchandiser or designer. Natalie served as a Sons of Italy American Lodge teen representative, participating in various charity events. During the Covid 19 Pandemic, she helped organize and lead food bank collection and distribution, including a Thanksgiving mobile food collection through Garden City High School. She has volunteered at St. Anne’s Church in its Youth Ministry and Respite Program, and through the United Federation of Teachers, organizing and working at food, book, and clothing drives, and at the organization’s Thanksgiving and the Holiday party for homeless children.
The WPOA scholarships recognize students who have been actively involved in student life at Garden City High School, achieved academic success, demonstrated a willingness to participate in community service, and will be pursuing further education.
Garden City High School Senior Sara Aquino receives the WPOA Scholarship in Memory of Past Presidents John F. Traxler, Paul J. Muscarella and Thomas Whalen from WPOA President RoseAnn Vernice. The WPOA’s second scholarship winner, Natalie Palmeri, was not able to attend the awards ceremony because she was competing in a lacrosse tournament that evening.