2025 HHS Alumni Association Scholarship Opportunities

20 Scholarships 

Augie Andronica Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded at the discretion of the Hastings High School Alumni Association Scholarship Committee.

Charles O. Aschmann Scholarship for Excellence

The late Charles O. Aschmann taught English at Hasting High School from 1958 until he retired in 1990.  This highly respected teacher, and head of the English Department, made all students who had the opportunity of taking his English class or learning from him in book club, in junior dramatics, and all other activities he instructed — grateful for the opportunity to know him and to appreciate his infinite abilities.

The HHS Alumni Association is proud to recognize and acknowledge the successes of HHS’ best and brightest graduates in its Hall of Excellence.  This scholarship recognizes the high academic standards and outstanding achievements of HHS alumni and has been established to provide a financial award to the individual pursuing a college education, exhibiting a stellar scholastic record, and exemplifying strong character, leadership and service to the school and community – everything Mr. Aschmann believed each student should strive to attain.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be planning to continue their education at a college or university.
• A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or previous teacher.
• Student should have a demonstrated involvement in school and community service.
• 3.5 GPA

Larry Kent Benjamin Scholarship for the Study of Information Technology

Larry Kent Benjamin was a graduate of the HHS Class of 1983. He graduated from Pace University with a degree in computer science and went on to manage Egghead Software stores throughout the tri-state area. He then worked for Citrix, Connections, and Apple until he passed away in 2021.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be pursuing a career in the field of information technology.
• A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or previous teacher.
• Student should have a demonstrated involvement in school and community service.
• 3.0 GPA

Sarah Elizabeth Black Memorial Scholarship for Compassionate Medicine

This scholarship was created by Dr. Jessica Black Puzzuoli, Class of 2000, to celebrate the life of her sister Sarah who died at the age of 4 from neuroblastoma.  It is designed to keep Sarah’s spirit and memory alive by making an award to a highly motivated student who wants to pursue medicine, the sciences, and/or medical/scientific research.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be planning to continue their education at a college or university.
• Applicant must be pursuing a career in the fields of science, medicine, or scientific/medical research.
• A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or previous teacher.
• Applicant must exemplify a strong dedication to humanitarian causes.
• Student should have a demonstrated involvement in school and community service.
• 3.5 GPA

Julius Chemka Community Scholarship

Julius Chemka was born and raised in Hastings-on-Hudson and graduated from HHS in 1944.  He served as a Trustee for the Village from 1970-1975 and in 1975 was elected Mayor, serving three consecutive terms.  He is one of only a few HHS grads inducted into both the Alumni Hall of Fame and Hall of Excellence.   

The Chemka Community Scholarship recognizes the skills and character traits of a leader with a strong dedication to helping others within the school and village community.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant may be planning to attend a college or a school for technical or vocational training.
• Applicant must show a demonstrated involvement in school and community service.
• A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or previous teacher.
• 2.5 GPA

Class of 1962 Merit Scholarship

This scholarship was initiated by John M. Braver to honor the members of the Class of 1962, both living and deceased.  The Class of 1962 is known as an HHS class which remains close, even so many years after graduation. 

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be planning to attend a college, vocational or technical training, or a course of study in the creative or performing arts.
• The applicant must exemplify service to the school and/or community.
• Financial need may be considered.
• 3.0 GPA

Class of 1973 Vocational, Technical, and Trade School Scholarship

In September of 2023, the HHS Class of 1973 celebrated the 50th anniversary of their graduation.  Their reunion resulted in donations to fund a scholarship to be awarded to an individual who will be attending a vocational or technical school. Individuals should also be actively involved in their school or the community.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be planning to attend a technical, vocational, or trade school.
• Costs related to certification, tools, or other equipment are eligible for funding.
• The applicant must exemplify service to the school and/or community.
• Financial need may be considered.
• 2.5 GPA

Coach John Costello Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship honors the impact that Coach John Costello had on HHS athletics, basketball in particular.  He not only taught the basics of the game, but the sportsmanship that needs to accompany athletic competitions.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be considering a career in physical education or athletics.
• Must be in good academic standing.
• Have consistent good sportsmanship in athletics.

Coaches’ Scholarship

The HHS Alumni Association Board of Directors established the Coaches’ Scholarship to honor the memory of all HHS coaches for their ability to motivate and educate HHS students on the playing field, and to promote a lifetime of physical fitness.  The 2021 loss of Coach Richard Bub and Coach Bruce Crandall was the impetus for this award.  

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be considering a career in teaching, sports, or athletics.
• Good academic standing is required.
• The student must exemplify consistent good sportsmanship in athletics, and involvement in school activities.

Colb Family Chemistry Scholarship in Honor of James Pressley

This scholarship is awarded at the discretion of the Hastings High School Science Department.

Gulish Family Art Scholarship

The Gulish family – Myrna ’55, Connie ’56 and Michael ‘65 – joined together to create the Gulish Family Art Scholarship in 2013 in honor of former HHS art teacher, Ronald Feaster – to show appreciation for the guidance and encouragement he gave Michael as a budding young artist and the support he showed so many other young art students during his tenure at Hastings High.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be pursuing an art-related career relying on their artistic talents.
• A recommendation by an art teacher should be submitted with the application.
• Demonstrated involvement in school and community service.
• 3.0 GPA

James V. Harmon Community Scholarship

Jim Harmon served the Village of Hastings-on-Hudson for 32 years as the sports director for the village’s recreation department.  He was a well-respected man and is remembered as a selfless and caring person profoundly dedicated to his family, friends, and community.

The Harmon Memorial Scholarship recognizes the skills and character traits of a leader and a strong dedication to helping others. Continuing education eligibility is not limited to college – vocational or technical training is recognized.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must display good sportsmanship and team spirit.
• Demonstrate involvement in community service.
• Evidence of financial need may be considered.
• 2.5 GPA

Michael and Eric Kantor Scholarship for Mathematics and Engineering

The Kantor brothers, Michael and Eric “Tank” Kantor were both graduates of HHS.  Both brothers chose to pursue careers in math related fields.  Michael was a prominent chemical engineer and Eric taught mathematics at Edgemont High School for 44 years, the last 11 as the Department Chair.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be pursuing a career in mathematics or engineering.
• The applicant must exemplify service to the school and/or community.
• A letter of recommendation must be submitted from a current or previous teacher.
• Financial need may be considered.
• 3.0 GPA

Philip S. Klipp Memorial Scholarship

Phil Klipp graduated HHS in 1946.  He was a talented two-sport athlete and his prowess on the baseball diamond got him a tryout with the Phillies and the Athletics after graduation.  In 2000, Phil was among the first group of HHS grads inducted into the HHS Ronald W. Lindeman Athletic Hall of Fame for his outstanding accomplishments during high school and beyond.                                                   

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be pursuing vocational or technical training, or a college degree.
• The applicant must exemplify service to the school and/or community.
• Financial need may be considered.
• A recommendation from teacher or coach should be submitted with the application.
• 2.5 GPA

Lee Kaiser and James Kennedy Future Educators Scholarship

Lee Kaiser was a Hastings student from 1975-1987. James Kennedy was a Hastings student from 1984–1988. During their time in the Hastings schools, they were encouraged, influenced, and inspired by various educators. As a result, they pursued careers in education to teach and inspire young people. This scholarship supports the passion of a Hastings High School senior who aspires to become an educator.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• The applicant must be considering a career in education.
• Be in good academic standing.
• A recommendation from a current or previous teacher should be submitted.
• Student should be involved in school/community activities.

Ronald Wilson Lindemann Athletic Scholarship

Ronald Wilson Lindemann was a teacher, coach, and athletic director at Hastings High School from 1944-1957.  Known as “Coach” to everyone at HHS and throughout the village, this popular and charismatic teacher was a positive and lasting influence to countless young men and women in the 40’s and 50’s.  He is remembered as an inspiring teacher and trusted ally to all who were privileged to have known him.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must exhibit participation in at least two varsity sports for at least two years, including senior year.
• Applicant must demonstrate leadership abilities and be in good academic standing.
• Student should be involved in school/community activities.
• Demonstrate involvement in school and community service.
• A recommendation from a current or previous teacher or coach must be submitted.
• 3.0 GPA

Bernard J. O’Brien Leadership Scholarship

Bernard “O-Bie” O’Brien was born and raised in HoH.  He attended HHS and was President of his class from freshman through senior year. This scholarship is a tribute to a man who had overcome many obstacles from childhood which made him stronger and more determined, never losing sight of his God, duty and deep-devotion for family, school, and community.  

The O’Brien Leadership Scholarship recognizes the skills and character traits of a leader: self-confidence, a strong dedication to helping others, and the willingness to step up and do the unusual or difficult thing. Continuing education is not limited to college – vocational or technical training is recognized.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be pursuing a college education, or vocational or technical training.
• A recommendation from teacher or coach must be submitted with the application.
• Student should be involved in school/community activities.
• Evidence of financial need will be considered.
• 3.0 GPA

Richard Thomas Family Music Scholarship

Richard M. Thomas graduated from Hastings High School in 1956. While in school, Richard developed a tremendous enthusiasm and deep-rooted passion for music.  He was a member of the high school band, orchestra, and All-State Chorus. His love of music remained with him throughout his life and he is remembered as a masterful musician by all who knew and loved him.  The scholarship provides an award to an individual who intends to continue their education in music.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• The applicant must intend to pursue a career in music.
• A recommendation from a music teacher must be submitted with the application.
• 3.0 GPA

Coach Richard Bub Memorial Scholarship

Coach Bub came to Hastings in 1957 and is credited with initiating the high school wrestling program.  In addition, he coached the Yellow Jackets to endless grid-iron victories and served as an inspiration to many students during his tenure at HHS as both a coach and the Athletic Director.

This scholarship was initiated by Coach Bub’s former students who appreciated his encouragement on the wrestling mat and the football field, as well as his caring attitude.  The scholarship is offered to a student pursuing a career in athletics, sports, or teaching.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant must be considering a career in teaching, sports, or athletics.
• Student should be involved in school/community activities.
• Good academic standing is required.

Rita Zaratzian Tribute to Music Teachers Scholarship

Rafael Zaratzian’s parents, Harry and Rita, were both music teachers and played a variety of instruments.  Their passion for music and dedication to their art influenced many of their students to choose a career path in music.  This award is dedicated to all past and present HHS music teachers who have educated and inspired their students to study and play music.

The Tribute to Music Teachers Scholarship is not limited to students enrolling in a four-year college. A senior planning to study the creative or performing arts or receive vocational or technical training can also apply for this award.

The criteria for the award of this scholarship are as follows:

• Applicant should have a demonstrated commitment to music and/or the performing arts.
• A recommendation from a music teacher must be submitted with the application.
• Financial need may be considered.
• 3.0 GPA