Gabriela Genao Captures Vincent D’Antoni-Richmond Scholarship

Huntington senior Gabriela Genao has captured the $1,000 Vincent D’Antoni-Richmond Memorial Scholarship, given in honor of a young man who lost his life at age 25 to a fentanyl poisoning. The Class of 2026 members intends to study for a career in nursing at Hofstra University.

“The key to my success has been putting school first and being confident in all I do,” Ms. Genao said. “Reminding myself throughout my doubts that I can persevere when things get hard because of the confidence I have within myself. I’ve enjoyed the following aspects of my high school career the most: Meeting new friends within different grades, joining many clubs, and creating strong relationships with my teachers.”

A National Honor Society member, Ms. Genao said that “earning three Pride Awards in all my science classes, serving as an officer for three clubs, acting as an ambassador for Huntington Youth Court, and completing internships with two teachers,” were among the highlights of the past four years.

The True North Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in loving memory of Sharon Richmond's son, the Vincent D’Antoni-Richmond Memorial Scholarship. Scholarship organizers desire to support a young person in need; a student who is focused on navigating their own path, helping others, and pursuing their passion.

The scholarship is open to graduating seniors from Huntington, Walt Whitman, Northport and Smithtown high schools “to support students in need who are finding their ‘True North’ and making a positive impact.”

“Inspired by the story of Vincent, a kind, sensitive soul who overcame struggles to follow his inner compass, this scholarship honors his memory by helping another student find their path to a brighter future,” states the scholarship packet.