The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has awarded the 2021 FASNY Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship to Seth Newman of Great Neck. Newman received a certificate and scholarship of $1,500 for his volunteer service in the community from Mike Krummenacker, member of the FASNY Board of Directors.
“This scholarship will be extremely helpful in supporting me with college payments and helping me reach my goal of becoming an arson investigator or a fire marshal,” Newman said.
Newman plans to attend Nassau Community College for his first year and then transfer to the University of New Haven where he intends to study Arson Investigation and Fire Science. Outside of the firehouse, Seth participated in his school’s robotics team as its safety captain.
“My knowledge from the fire service helped me to ensure the safety of others on my team,” Newman said.
Since childhood, Newman has dreamed of being in the fire service and has nothing but good things to say about his experience.
“I’ve built so many important friendships through the fire department, and I look forward to making many more.”
He offers this advice to those who want to join and volunteer in the fire service, “Do it, try it out, and see if it’s for you. Don’t be scared to join because you don’t know anybody in the service. Start as a junior firefighter, and learn about the fire service, and, if you like it, continue and become a full member. It will change your life, and you will learn plenty of valuable life skills, make lifelong friendships, and will make countless memories.”
Newman is one of 26 students chosen for this scholarship. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of an applicant’s volunteer service to his or her community, such as serving with a local fire department, scouting, church, school, work with senior citizens, fire prevention and other projects. Additional criteria include consistent demonstration of good character and completion of a written essay.
The Gerard J. Buckenmeyer FASNY Volunteer Scholarship program is made possible each June through the generous donations of individuals, fire departments and auxiliaries. This year, Provident Agency Inc., the provider of the accidental death and dismemberment insurance for FASNY members, has again provided major underwriting support to help FASNY award scholarships to young volunteers. FASNY would also like to recognize the in-kind support donated by McNeil and Co., which provides more than 80 hours of administrative work needed to process the applications and awards. For more information, visit www.fasny.com.
—Submitted by The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York
