2024 Julia Platt Memorial Scholarship Awardees
The Julia Platt Memorial Scholarship stands as a testament to the enduring memory of Julia Platt, a cherished member of our greater United Methodist congregation. Established to honor her legacy of service and commitment to education, this scholarship aims to support deserving individuals within our community in their pursuit of higher education.
Sarah Edie is entering her senior year at the University of Vermont and will graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Studies. This marks Sarah’s fourth Julia Platt Scholarship, following in the footsteps of her brothers John and David, who also received four-year scholarships. Congratulations to the entire Edie family, who have made significant contributions to HUMC over many years.
In her application, Sarah reflected on her church involvement: “While my participation in our church has decreased in recent years, the community and its people have been crucial in my upbringing and college years. I've found mentors and friends here who have guided me to where I am today. My mom always believed that the HUMC community would enrich our lives, and this has certainly proven true. Sunday School, events with peers, and the presence of loved ones have all shaped my journey to success.”
Kameron Olden, from Lincoln Memorial UMC in Buffalo, NY, was unable to accept his scholarship in person due to mandatory orientation at Niagara University. He plans to visit HUMC in August to meet its members. Kameron is majoring in Computer Science and Criminal Justice. In his application, he shared: “My involvement in Lincoln Memorial Church, particularly with the First Fruits pantry and the Underground Railroad tour during Juneteenth, has deepened my understanding of community service and history. The values of education, service, and community engagement promoted by the United Methodist Church have inspired my pursuit of higher learning and my desire to make a positive impact through education.”
William Kelly, from Central Park UMC in Buffalo, NY, will begin his junior year at Oswego State with a major in Marketing. During The July 7th service, Will was pleasantly surprised to discover that many HUMC members had connections to Central Park UMC, where his mother, Pastor Mary Kelly, serves. In his application, he wrote: “Growing up deeply involved in the United Methodist Church has significantly influenced my outlook and aspirations for higher education. Interacting with dedicated, faithful individuals every week has motivated me. Many church members pursued higher education, and their conversations over the years have shaped my own educational goals.”
Noah Sterheim, son of Pastors Heather and Gregg Sterheim, will start his freshman year at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to study Mechanical Engineering. Reflecting on his church and community involvement, Noah said: “Throughout high school, I've been actively engaged in church activities such as playing bass in the church band, assisting with worship services, and participating in various outreach programs like Clara’s Closet and community service projects. The Methodist Church's emphasis on service and community has strongly influenced my desire for higher education and my commitment to making a difference in the world.”
All these outstanding applicants received a $2,000 scholarship award. Each of them serves as a role model whom parents, friends, and UMC churches should be proud to know. We wish them well as they continue on their chosen paths and pray that they will remain ambassadors for Christ among their peers.
God Bless & God Speed,
Anne Brown
Julia Platt Memorial Scholarship Fund Chair
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