For the past 36 years, the East Williston Teachers’ Association has awarded a scholarship to a graduating senior who plans to study education and to become a teacher. The David K. Israel Scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship, named after a 40-year veteran English teacher who served as the East Williston Teachers’ Association president for more than a quarter century.
This year’s recipient is Ms. Brittney Guerra.
One teacher describes Brittney as a student having a keen focus, quiet confidence, and an impressive work ethic. In addition, Brittney has an ability to think critically, and that truly set her apart from others in the class. She is humble and makes it a priority to help others.
Brittney is described by another faculty member as someone who is resilient, mindful, well-rounded and dedicated to seeing the positive in all things.
Most impressively, one of Brittney’s personal goals is “to live a life of unparalleled giving; to exude that same selflessness and generosity which her parents have exhibited in uprooting their own lives for the sake of hers.” Because of this, Brittney has devoted her life to giving back – a token of gratitude for her parents and teachers who have given to her. In Brittney’s words, “the best way to give back is through a system which provided her, and continues to provide her the motivation she needs to help others: the educational system.”
Brittney volunteered in a North Side kindergarten class this year. And true to her goal of giving back, she volunteers at Holy Apostles soup kitchen and Long Island Harvest’s food pantry.
SUNY Oneonta is truly fortunate to welcome her this fall.
Tax deductible contributions can be made to the David K. Israel Scholarship Foundation c/o The Wheatley School, 11 Bacon Road, Old Westbury, NY, 11568.
