This year NYSOMA has initiated a Scholarship program for participants of Odyssey of the Mind in New York. Applicants must currently be High School Seniors or first year post-secondary school enrollees.

The initial plan was to award one $500 scholarship this year. Fourteen applications for this scholarship were received from a very impressive group of candidates. During the review process funds for a second Scholarship became available. So NYSOMA is pleased to be able to award 2 scholarships this year.

Funding for the initial $500 scholarship was provided by Montgomery Watson Harza, a worldwide engineering firm which believes a team oriented approach is critical to solving it’s clients challenges. The firm employs more than 6000 specialists in more than 30 countries.

Funding for the second scholarship was provided by Phil and Kristine Ulrich, who have been Odyssey officials for the past four years. Seeing the value of the Odyssey program to both students and officials, they wish to support the scholarship program and hope to encourage others to participate as well.

The NYSOMA board has decided to use the proceeds from the silent auction, which is held prior to the closing ceremony at the State Tournament, to fund the Scholarship program next year.

NYSOMA is proud to announce this years scholarship recipients:

Kara Marie Sadlik

Kara, a H. S. Senior from Weedsport N. Y., has participated in Odyssey of the Mind since 1994. She has also been involved in many other academic, athletic, and community service activities. She plans to pursue a double major in environmental science and economics.

Danielle Marie Wilsey

Danielle, a H. S. senior from Poughkeepsie N. Y., has participated in Odyssey of the Mind since 1996. In 2000 and 2002 she organized and hosted spontaneous workshops for teams within her school district. She has also been involved in many other academic, athletic, and community service activities. She plans to major in international business and French.