Elena Eckert Memorial Scholarship

The Elena Eckert Memorial Scholarship was established in loving memory of Elena Eckert, a New York State Corrections officer that served for roughly three decades. Her son Billy created the scholarship to honor two of his mother’s strongest beliefs: helping high school seniors in the local community achieve their dreams of higher education; and, giving back to family members of those that selflessly protect and serve in police, corrections and the armed forces. The scholarship is available to Dutchess, Orange, Putnam and Ulster County high school seniors who are the children or grandchildren of current or former armed forces members, police officers or corrections officers.

Amount of Award(s):

$1,000 minimum

Number of Awards:
1

Type of Award:
One-time scholarship payable to school

Conditions For Continuation:
Non renewable

Current High School:
Graduating senior from Dutchess, Orange, Putnam or Ulster County

Current Level of Education:
High School

Eligibility Requirements:
-Graduating senior from Dutchess, Orange, Putnam or Ulster County
-Child or grandchild of current or former armed forces members, police officers or corrections officers (must provide name, department and rank/capacity of person).
-Have a B- or above grade point average

Alternative Materials:
Essay that addresses “How has being a child or grandchild of an armed forces member, police officer or corrections officer impacted your life to this point, and how do you believe that experience will benefit you in your future endeavors?” (Approximately 500 words)

Application Details:
With your completed Online Application you will also need to attach the following:

– Essay that addresses “How has being a child or grandchild of an armed forces member, police officer or corrections officer impacted your life to this point, and how do you believe that experience will benefit you in your future endeavors?” (Approximately 500 words)
– Most recent high school transcript.
– Copy of your FAFSA Submission Summary and Student Aid Index (SAI), which you will receive when your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has been completed and submitted.
– Two current letters of recommendation from teachers/guidance counselor, clergy or persons other than family members who are familiar with your skills and abilities. These letters must have been written within the last six months.

​Deadline:
Applications must be submitted online with all attachments by 11:59pm on March 15, 2025.