Recognizing their academic achievements, Eden has awarded six high school students in the Capital Region this year’s Green STEAM Scholarship. These students were chosen based on various factors including academic merit, demonstrated leadership in school, participation in community service, work experience, and statement of goals and aspirations. Each student will be attending college to pursue environmental studies or another related STEM field. Meet the 2021 Green STEAM Scholarship recipients:

CONNOR MCMURRY
Argyle High School

Connor McMurry, 18, of Argyle, NY, will be attending Hudson Valley Community College to obtain his associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Tech. He plans to pursue a bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering at a university soon after.

Argyle High School Guidance Counselor Karen Beck said, “Connor McMurry has demonstrated an interest in the math, science and technology field since I began working with him in 7th grade. His academic background and desire to achieve will ensure his success at Hudson Valley Community College.”

ANTHONY TENACE
Duanesburg High School

Anthony Tenace, 18, of Delanson, NY, will be attending SUNY Polytechnic Institute to study Nanoscale Science. With this degree, he plans to pursue a career in Nanotechnology to research and manufacture technology that combats environmental issues. Math and science have always been of interest to Anthony, who has been taking Regents courses since 8th grade. In high school, he was a member of the bowling team where he won the “Most Improved” award and “Coach’s Award”. He also participated in soccer and track.

Duanesburg High School Principal Jodi Marvin said, “As a school district, Duanesburg Central School is so incredibly proud of Anthony Tenace and his accomplishments.  We know Anthony will continue to make a positive impact..”

JAMES CZUB
Hoosic Valley High School

James Czub, 17, of Schaghticoke, NY, will be attending Purdue University to major in Agricultural Engineering where he hopes to “develop more efficient production methods and equipment that achieve higher production output” while decreasing the environmental footprint of farming. His interest in the field stems from his Science Research class where he studied nitrogen fertilizer management. He was also an active member of the local 4-H Club and played football throughout high school.

Hoosic Valley High School Principal Eric Papandrea said, “James always puts in tremendous effort with high level classes including devoting an extraordinary amount of time and energy to his Science Research project through the University at Albany.  Above all, James is a kind leader to his peers and role model to younger students at Hoosic Valley.”

MATTHEW GOWER
Hudson High School

Matthew Gower, 18, of Hudson, NY, will be attending Penn State University to study Aerospace Engineering, something he’s been passionate about since childhood. Throughout high school, he participated in many clubs and sports and received numerous awards. Additionally, he was a long-time member of Boy Scouts, soon entering the Eagle Board of Review to attain the highest ranking of the Boy Scouts program.

Hudson High School School Counselor Liz Novine said, “Matthew Gower is an outstanding young man who has earned his way into Penn State University.”

DAVIN SHERWOOD
Maple Hill Junior-Senior High School

Davin Sherwood, 17, of Castleton, NY, will be attending University of Arizona where he has been admitted into the Honors College as a Wildlife Conservation major. A well-rounded student-athlete, he was captain of both the boys’ varsity basketball and soccer teams and participated in varsity tennis and band. He graduated second in his class. 

Maple Hill High School Principal Jacqueline Hill said, "Davin has demonstrated his love for the environment through his coursework and dedication to his academics. He has consistently demonstrated leadership within the classroom and on his sports teams.  Davin will undoubtedly make a difference in the global community in the future!"

CLARISSA LAMORA
Troy High School

Clarissa LaMora, 18, of Troy, NY, will be studying Marine Biology at the University of New England. Her dream is to become a shark expert. She also wants to take part in helping stop the ocean plastic crisis and commercial overfishing. In high school, she participated in the Drama Club, Italian Club, Students for Environmental Action where she served as Secretary, the Junior-Senior Board, Music Club where she served as Treasurer, and Varsity Tennis. Outside of school, she frequently volunteered in her community--walks for breast cancer, working at the local food bank, spending time with senior citizens, you name it.

Troy High School Principal Joseph Mariano said, “Troy High School is proud of Clarissa and her academic achievements in her educational career thus far.  We know she will excel in college and in whichever career path she chooses, and will represent Troy with great pride and will have great success."

We want to extend our congratulations to this year’s Green STEAM recipients, and wish them the best of luck in their studies and all of their future endeavors!

The Green STEAM Scholarship is a component of Eden Education that provides students the chance to learn beyond school grounds and gain knowledge in STEM subjects with lesson plans that meet New York State learning standards. More about Eden Education.