Press release/provided photos)
Four high school seniors who exemplify dedication to inclusive care, education, and advocacy have been named recipients of the 2025 Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship, presented by Arc GLOW.
Representing Alexander, Letchworth, Livonia, and Pembroke Central Schools, these students are being recognized for their passion for serving individuals with disabilities and their commitment to careers in human services, special education, and related fields.
“Arc GLOW is so proud to help these seniors begin their journey in careers into help others,” said Lisa Bors, vice president of public relations and development at Arc GLOW.
Emily Pietrzykowski, a senior at Alexander Central, will attend Ramapo College in Mahwah, New Jersey, to study nursing. She said her volunteer experiences and community involvement have taught her how important it is to listen, be patient, and treat every individual with dignity and respect.
“I’m especially passionate about reducing stigma and improving access to care for those with developmental, cognitive or physical challenges,” she said. Looking ahead to a career in healthcare, Emily hopes to work in a hospital where she can advocate for inclusive care and ensure that all patients with disabilities are seen and heard.
Carly Jines of Letchworth Central School will be attending Keuka College this fall to pursue a degree in unified childhood education and special education. She said her decision to enter the teaching field was heavily influenced by her mother and aunt, both of whom are teachers.
“I saw the positive impact that they had on their students and how fulfilling a career in teaching could be,” she said. Carly acknowledges the path of a special educator comes with challenges, “but I am also anticipating the rewards.”
Caitlynn Haugh, a senior at Livonia Central, will study exercise science at SUNY Brockport as she works toward a career in physical therapy. She hopes to support children with disabilities in a school setting, helping them grow and achieve their goals.
“I believe many individuals with special needs are often underestimated,” she wrote in her application. “But in reality, they are capable of so much more than people realize. All they need is someone who sees their potential, not their disability. I want to be that person for these students.”
Reagan Schneider, from Pembroke Central School, plans to become an elementary and special education teacher and will begin her studies at Buffalo State in August. Since the eighth grade, she has been involved with Pembroke’s Unified Sports programs for basketball and bowling, which she described as “an amazing experience, watching the athletes succeed.” She also gained valuable classroom experience by shadowing special education teachers at the elementary level, where she worked directly with students and learned from seasoned professionals.
“Those opportunities helped shape my decision to pursue this career,” she said.
The Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Mary Anne Graney, a special education teacher, advocate, and parent, who passed away in 2004. The scholarship is funded through Arc GLOW’s Friends & Family 5K, scheduled this year for Sept. 20 in Elba.
Since its founding in 2006, the scholarship program has awarded 63 scholarships to deserving high school seniors committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
Arc GLOW is a public nonprofit providing services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. For more information, visit ArcGLOW.org