The Patrick Thomas McCourt Memorial Scholarship was created following a terrifying accident that continues to numb the heart and soul. A member of Huntington High School’s Class of 2006, the 22-year old was killed September 17, 2011 after being struck by two cars while walking along Veterans Memorial Highway in Holbrook at 5:30 a.m.
“As our tribute to Patrick, this scholarship is awarded annually to a student who we feel embodies his spirit and legacy,” said Meredith McCourt, who presented the 2020 award on behalf of her family during Huntington’s senior academic awards night, which was held in a virtual format this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The McCourt family is grateful to the Rotary Club for allowing us to maintain this fund under its auspices and for the generosity of donors to the fund.”
Patrick McCourt as a Huntington HIgh School senior.
This year’s McCourt scholarship was awarded to Ethan Mulroy, who will be attending Cornell University and studying in its highly regarded School of Industrial Relations. He said he chose Cornell due to its “academic rigor, strong job placement and extensive alumni network.” He intends to concentrate his studies in business and economics and looks forward to a career in corporate finance.
An Advanced Placement Scholar, Mr. Mulroy considered the University of Michigan, Boston College, Boston University and Villanova University before accepting Cornell’s invitation to join its freshman class.
Mr. Mulroy believes that remaining committed to his long-term vision has been the key to his success. The detail-oriented young man participated in Habitat for Humanity and Young Leaders and helped raise funds and awareness at the high school’s Relay For Life.
Patrick Thomas McCourt was born October 20, 1988. He was a popular figure around Huntington, performing in the marching band, serving as captain of the Blue Devil fencing team and participating in various school activities.
“Patrick was a serious student, a quick wit, a true friend, a helpful neighbor and a responsible citizen,” said Ms. McCourt at the scholarship presentation ceremony. “Well-loved and admired, he is sorely missed by many.”
During his years at Huntington High School, Mr. McCourt was very well-liked and developed close relationships with a core group of friends, along with many others. He graduated from George Washington University, focusing his studies on civil engineering. He quickly found work in the field shortly after his college graduation.
In addition to his sisters Meredith and Kiera, Mr. McCourt was survived by his parents, Patrick and Mary and his brother, Michael.
In the 2006 edition of The Huntingtonian, Huntington High School’s annual yearbook, Mr. McCourt’s photo appears on page 38, along with the senior quote he chose from comedian Steven Wright: “I intend to live forever. So far, so good.”
Patrick Thomas McCourt Memorial Scholarship Recipients
2020 Ethan Mulroy
2019 Luke Luckow
2018 Erica Vazquez
2017 Christiana Reinertsen
2016 Santos Garcia Avelar
2015 Brandon Mendez
2014 Rachel Feltman
2013 Daniel Moya
2012 Thomas Hardardt