Awards

On Wednesday, December 28th, 2016, the New York State Honorary Fire Chiefs Association (NYSHFCA) presented the annual scholarship awards at FDNY headquarters.

15 FDNY members received a scholarship of $3,000 towards continuing their education. This year’s scholarship winners are Battalion Chief William Carroll, B-19; Deputy Chief Edward Bobb, EMS D-3; Captain Mark Guerra, Fire Commissioner’s Office; Lieutenant Scott Cassese, L-119; Lieutenant Joseph Lennon, B-50; Lieutenant Richard Quenzer, B-46; Lieutenant Matthew Quinn, E-69; Firefighter Arnold Adams, E-157; Firefighter Jacob Dutton, L-102; Firefighter Kieran Frawley, L-43; Firefighter Marcus Matulik, L-154; Firefighter Marlon Sahai, L-9; Paramedic Andria Connell, Counseling Services Unit; Lieutenant Claudia Medina, Emergency Medical Dispatch; and EMT John Mayberger, Emergency Medical Dispatch.

First Deputy Commissioner Robert Turner thanked the NYSHFCA for their continued partnership with the Department.

“This yearly event is a chance to recognize the individuals who are dedicating their time off-duty to improving themselves and our Department,” said Commissioner Turner. “It’s also a chance to celebrate the great investment the Honorary Fire Chiefs Association is making in the FDNY.”

More than 70 FDNY members have been awarded scholarships through the NYSHFCA program, with nearly $200,000 donated towards their education.

Michael Hill, President of NYSHFCA underscored the history of the scholarships which started in 1950. Currently, over 100 NYSHFCA members support the scholarship agenda of donation and dues.

David Gold, Scholarship Chairman of NYSHFCA stated: “we have come a long way 10 years ago; the [NYSHFCA] seeks opportunities to make a difference in the lives of FDNY [members].”
Chairman Gold also highlighted the quantity and funding record amount this year.

Chief of Department James E. Leonard was a 2012 recipient of the NYSHFCA Scholarship. He thanked the NYSHFCA for making an investment in the future of the FDNY.

“Aiming for higher education is not an easy task, it takes tremendous time and dedication,” said Chief Leonard. “This extra step is an investment in the future, and the strength of our department is only as good as our people.”