In the Spring of 1985, the first scholarship committee was formed by the MCFD auxiliary to benefit a son or daughter of a firefighter, auxiliary member, or squad member as outlined by the committee. These scholarships of $1000 ($500 from the fire department and $500 from the auxiliary) were awarded yearly to outstanding high school graduates.
For 2016, the MCFD Scholarship Committee and Executive Board has modified the scholarship award program format, changing from the age-old two recipients $1000 each, to an increased $4000 total, divided between deserving applicants based on community participation and academic achievement. For 2016, the committee is proud to acknowledge the following six (6) recipients with awards.
Matthew Bates is the son of Jeff & Jeanne Bates. Matt started as an Explorer in the spring of 2014 and became a RAM, or Restricted Active Member, with MCFD in the summer of 2015. He graduated from Liverpool High School, and plans to attend Champlain College pursuing a Degree in Digital Forensics. Matt is a member of the National Honor Society and the Varsity Volleyball Team. He is also very active with his church. Matt Bates is a $1000.00 scholarship winner.
Taylor Wisely is the daughter of Deputy Chief Jeff & Michele Wisely and the granddaughter of Past Chief Steve Wisely. Taylor graduated from Cicero/North Syracuse and plans to attend the University of Albany to pursue a degree in Forensics. Taylor belongs to the Skating Club of CNY where she is a member of the synchronized skating team and has also competed individually. When not competing she mentors others in skating. She also works at Chuck Hafner’s Farm Stand as a Cashier. Taylor Wisely is a $1000.00 scholarship winner.
Ryan Hart is the son of Greg and Cheryl Hart. Ryan graduated from Liverpool High School and plans to attend Onondaga Community College to pursue a degree in Fire Protection Technology. Ryan started as an Explorer, moved to RAM, and is now an interior firefighter with MCFD. He has completed Fire Fighter 1 and EMT Basic. Ryan is also a member of the New Vision Criminal Justice Program at OCM BOCES. Ryan currently works at Canale’s Italian Take Out. Ryan Hart is a $500.00 scholarship winner.
Meghan Bailey is the daughter of Past Battalion Chief Colin and Laura Bailey. Meghan graduated from Liverpool High School and plans to attend Onondaga Community College to pursue a degree in Fire Protection Technology. Meghan started as an Explorer and is currently a RAM with MCFD. She has been a member of the concert band and ensemble throughout high school. Meghan is very active in her church where she is a Deacon. Meghan also competes in horseback riding and is employed as a farm hand at Beacon Hill Equestrian Center. Meghan Bailey is a $500.00 scholarship winner.
Marissa Wick is the daughter of Past Captain Mike Wick and Mary Jo Davis. Marissa graduated from Jordan Elbridge High School and Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES and plans to attend Cayuga Community College to pursue a degree in Business Administration. Her goal is to own her own business. Marissa has been teaching young children to dance for many years. She also has been in Jordan Elbridge’s marching band’s color guard and has competed all over New York State. While in school she has earned her Cosmetology license. Marissa Wick is a $500.00 scholarship winner.
Bailey McGowan is the daughter of Captain Kevin & Katie McGowan. Bailey graduated from Liverpool High School and plans to attend Mohawk College of Arts to pursue a degree in graphic design, photography and art history. Bailey is very active in many school organizations including National Arts Honor Society, in which she is the President. She also volunteers at the Syracuse Airport’s Gregory J. Harris Military Courtesy Room. Bailey is a swim instructor at the Northside YMCA and an Apparel Clerk at Kmart. Bailey McGowan is a $500.00 scholarship winner.
To all of our award winners, the Members of the MCFD and its Auxiliary wish each of you the best in your future endeavors. Work hard, chase your dreams, and we look forward to hearing from you on your successes in college! Congratulations to each of you.
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