The October Dawn Scholarship is a very special award presented annually to a graduating Huntington High School senior. This year, the scholarship’s generous stipend of $2,000 was garnered by Harrison Krywak, a member of the Class of 2022.
The scholarship is presented in memory of Kathryn A. DeGelleke, a special education teacher and Centerport resident who passed away September 22, 2009 after a two-year battle with cancer. She was only 53 years old.
Mrs. DeGelleke worked in the district as a home tutor and provided instructional support services. Her husband, Scott typically presents the scholarship on the high school stage, but the award was announced by school officials as were many of this year’s scholarships due to COVID-19.
Scholarship applicants are asked to submit a one-page essay detailing what obstacles they have overcome in high school, their future plans and why they believe they should be awarded the scholarship.
Mr. Krywak has been recruited to play on the men’s lacrosse team at York College of Pennsylvania. He plans to study for a career as a social studies teacher.
The teenager said three Huntington teachers in particular have helped “shape” him, including Peter Fusco, Fred Bisogno and Anthony Troffa.
“I had Mr. Troffa and Mr. Bisogno together in eleventh grade and I just loved every bit of their class,” Mr. Krywak said. “I just have a lot in common with Mr. Fusco. He has showed me all the fun and enjoyment in being a teacher.”
Mr. Krywak starred at defense for the Blue Devil boys’ lacrosse team. He hopes his work ethic and determination will help him to be equally successful on the college level.
Assistant Principal Gamal Smith presented Mr. Krywak with the scholarship at this year’s senior scholarships and awards ceremony in the high school auditorium.