Bovina Public Library is pleased to announce scholarship awards to 2026 graduates. André Shaw, graduate of Delaware Academy, was awarded the Jean Marie Collin Memorial Scholarship. The Hugh Lee Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Karlie LaFever graduate of Liberty University Online Academy.
The Jean Marie Collin Memorial Scholarship is an annual $1,500 award for up to four consecutive years of college or professional training. The scholarship goes to a Bovina graduate who demonstrates character and community appreciation through his or her activities and academic achievements.
Jean Marie Collin began her formal education at age 22 while working full-time as a secretary for Pfizer Co. Jean’s career advanced in concert with the degrees she earned. Her eleven year educational journey culminated in an MBA in Strategic Management. As Risk Manager for Pfizer in 2001, Jean was giving a presentation at the World Trade Center on the morning of September 11. Tragically she perished in the disaster. The Jean Marie Collin Memorial Scholarship honors her spirit and dedication by supporting like-minded students.
André Shaw will enroll at Boston University to study International Relations. His decision came about after attending the Young Yale Global Scholars “Solving Global Challenges” summer program which allowed him to interact with students from all over the world and to attend lectures on national identity, mental health crisis among refugees, and challenges related to poverty and healthcare.
Karlie LaFever will attend the Paul Mitchell School in Schenectady to study cosmetology with a goal of building a successful career in the beauty industry. The Hugh Lee Memorial Scholarship is a one-time award of $1,000. Hugh Lee dedicated his life to many Bovina organizations and played an integral role in the growth and development of Bovina Public Library.
The Library Board of Trustees and the founders of the Jean Marie Collin Memorial Scholarship make up the selection committee.
