The North Fork Women for Women Fund (NFWFWF), a 501(c)3 charitable organization, is awarding the 2016 Anne MacKay Memorial Scholarship to two North Fork graduating seniors. The winning prize of $3,000 is awarded to Colibri Lopez of Shelter Island H.S., and Mercedes Edwards of Greenport H.S. will be awarded a $1,500 runner-up prize.

The NFWFWF Anne MacKay Memorial Scholarship was established in 2012 following the death of Ms. MacKay, an original NFWFWF member and supporter. Ms. MacKay was a longtime Orient resident who was a teacher, author, poet and sailor. The scholarship seeks to honor students who reflect Ms. MacKay’s areas of interest and her love of the North Fork.

The award is one of the largest privately funded scholarships available to graduating seniors on the North Fork. Interested high school students are asked to submit an application along with an essay describing a personal experience or episode that best reflects the applicant’s commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion in their community.

The experiences of this year’s finalists reflect Ms. MacKay’s commitment not only to learning but also to the community at large. Indeed, after reviewing the applications and essays, and meeting with the students and their guardians, the NFWFWF committee was so impressed that it decided to award each of the two finalists.

These students are truly inspirational and their goal to help others is reflected in their thoughtful support of their peers and contributions to our community. NFWFWF is confident that all students will make important contributions in future and is honored to be able to bestow this award on three such capable young women. They truly embody Anne MacKay’s commitment to education, diversity and inclusion.