Chicopee – The Chicopee St. Patrick’s Parade Committee has awarded college scholarships to eight young women who participated in the 2015 Colleen Contest last February.  The awards were based on academic achievement, community involvement, extracurricular activities and other significant accomplishments. They were presented by Committee President John Beaulieu at a reception at Collegian Court Restaurant on Thursday June 11.

The following awards in the amount of $500 each were given:

• Parade Committee Scholarship, in memory of William J. Hurley, awarded to Kelsey Prive, Chicopee High School, who plans to attend Elms College.
• Parade Committee Scholarship, in memory of Peter Graham, awarded to Erin O’Donnell, Chicopee Comprehensive High School, who plans to attend Endicott College.
• Parade Committee Scholarship, in memory of  Stephen Waldron, awarded to Samantha Conner, Chicopee Comprehensive High School, who plans to attend University of South Carolina.
• Interstate Towing, Inc. Scholarship, awarded to Shannon McAndrew, Chicopee High School, who plans to attend Wofford College.
• Health New England Health & Wellness Scholarship, awarded to Brianna Wright, Chicopee High School, who plans to attend Simmons College.
• Health New England Health & Wellness Scholarship, awarded to Jessica Welsh, Chicopee High School, who plans to attend American International College.
• Ruth and William Corridan Scholarship, awarded to Delaney Boucher, Chicopee Comprehensive High School, who plans to attend Florida Southern College.
• Rodowicz Family Scholarship, in memory of Leo O’Brien, awarded to Alyssa Hogan, Chicopee High School, who plans to attend the University of Vermont.

For over 60 years, the Chicopee St. Patrick’s  Parade Committee has overseen the city’s participation in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade.  With the support of many generous sponsors, its members organize the Colleen Contest and Coronation Ball, design and build the Colleen’s award-winning float, and promote Irish pride and culture through many events.  In addition to these activities, the committee awards scholarships to young women who plan to further their education at a college or university.

The Parade Committee meets from October through May and new members are always welcome.   Anyone interested in joining the committee, becoming a sponsor, or attending any committee events should logon to http://www.chicopeespc.com/  for more information. 

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