Rockland NCJW awards high schoolers
For the 29th year, the National Council of Jewish Women, Rockland Section has honored Rockland County high schoolers with community service awards. This year’s three seniors have shown commitment and dedication to improving people’s lives through their community service projects through ongoing voluntary service. In recognition, each winner received a $1,000 scholarship and an award certificate from NCJW Rockland. Karen Sherman from NCJW chairs the selection committee, which grants these awards annually to foster continuing higher education and the spirit of volunteerism.
The 2026 awardees are Kelly Cowie, Hunter Stoll, and Kaylee Paredes.
Kelly Cowie of Pearl River Senior High School has volunteered at Meals-on-Wheels Rockland, serving food for people in need; Orangetown Youth Court; and Buddy Ball Sports, teaching skills to young athletes. She will attend the University of Georgia to study business and explore a path in pre-law that would allow her to advocate for others. Hunter Stoll of North Rockland High School was an EMT and youth squad leader with Stony Point Ambulance Corps, trained others in EMS skills at Rockland County EMS Training Academy, and volunteered with Stony Point Police PAL. He will attend Alvernia University in Reddington, PA, to study medicine and plans to practice medicine in underserved communities. Kaylee Paredes of North Rockland High School has spent more than 100 hours serving her community in Rotary Youth Leadership as a junior counselor for high school juniors; at Proyecto Faro, an immigrant-led grassroots organization; assisting students at St. Peter’s and St. Mary’s Church. She will attend Villanova University in Pennsylvania.
For information about NCJW Rockland, go to www.ncjw-rockland.org.