Woodbury Scholarships Honor Local Heroes, Help Grads Dream

High school seniors in Woodbury, New York, have a chance to turn their college dreams into reality thanks to two scholarships honoring local legends who dedicated their lives to education and service.

The Woodbury Historical Society is accepting applications until March 28, 2026, for the Kirk Memorial Scholarship and the Galberd Memorial Scholarship. Both awards celebrate residents who left lasting marks on their community and now help young people follow in their footsteps.

The Kirk Memorial Scholarship honors Margaret and Adam Kirk, educators and community leaders who served Woodbury for over 50 years. Known as lifelong learners with wide-ranging talents, the Kirks inspired generations of students through their passion for knowledge and community service.

Graduating seniors from Monroe-Woodbury, Cornwall, and Burke High Schools, plus homeschooled students, can apply if they live in Woodbury and plan to study sciences, history, or the arts. The application requires one to two recommendation letters, a one-page essay about interests, and details about volunteer work showing leadership and compassion.

The Galberd Memorial Scholarship pays tribute to Constance and Herman Galberd, who both served with the Woodbury Ambulance Corps and dedicated years to the Historical Society. Their legacy lives on through support for students pursuing nursing and healthcare careers.

Current seniors and recent graduates can apply for the Galberd award if they're Woodbury residents heading to college, technical school, or nursing school. Applicants need a detailed resume, recommendation letters, transcripts, and a statement showing commitment to science, healthcare, compassion, and community service.

The Ripple Effect

These scholarships do more than ease financial burdens. They connect today's students with yesterday's heroes, creating a chain of service and learning that strengthens entire communities.

By honoring the Kirks' love of lifelong learning and the Galberds' dedication to helping others, these awards remind students that education opens doors to meaningful careers. They also show that small communities remember and celebrate those who give back.

Applications are available online and at both Woodbury Public Library branches in Central Valley and Highland Mills, plus the Historical Society building on Route 32. Students can submit completed forms to their school guidance office or mail them to the Woodbury Historical Society.

The scholarship amounts vary yearly based on committee decisions, and Galberd applicants will participate in interviews before final selections. Winners receive their awards at high school academic ceremonies, launching their next chapter with community support behind them.

March 28 marks the deadline for dreams to take flight.