Scholarships

The E. J. Herrmann Scholarships

We will begin accepting applications for 2026-2027 E. J. Herrmann Scholarships at the conclusion of the Cross County Season.

For 2026-2027, the Herrmann Family may award up to $1500.00 in scholarship money in memory of Mr. E.J. Herrmann to select student-athletes who meet the following criteria:

Student-athletes should meet the following criteria:

Applicants must have participated in a Varsity Race in the E. J. Herrmann Invitational.
Applicants must be high school seniors.
Applicants must be good school citizens in good academic and disciplinary standing.
Applicants must be involved in performing community service for a non-profit agency.
Applicants must be "full time" distance runners. They must have competed in Cross-Country, and Indoor Track (at distances of 800m or greater), and Outdoor Track (at distances of 800m or greater). If your school does not offer Indoor Track, runners are eligible for a Herrmann Scholarship provided they meet the other criteria.
Applicants must submit letters of recommendation from his/her running coach, and a teacher, and a guidance counselor or school administrator.

To apply, complete the E.J. Herrmann Scholarship Application and return it postmarked no later than April 18, 2027.

The East Utica Optimist Club will announce the recipients of the 2026-2027 scholarships by May 3, 2027.

Scholarship recipients will be invited to attend the May 2027 meeting of the East Utica Optimist Club where they will receive their award.

For additional information, e-mail or write to:

Mail:

Mr. Dan Amado
563 Brown Rd
Frankfort NY 13340

Email: ej********@***il.com

Download Application

Past Winners

2025-2026 E.J. Herrmann Scholarships Awarded

The East Utica Optimist Club is pleased to announce the recipients of the Edward J. Herrmann Scholarships for 2025-2026. The organization salutes the three individuals who are the most recent recipients of the E.J. Herrmann Scholarships. The three scholarship winners are superb harriers, accustomed to the rigors and challenges of academia, and have made an impact on their respective schools and communities. All have demonstrated the ability to overcome obstacles through determination, persistence, and intrepidness to attain noteworthy running achievement and academic success.

Anisha Alvarado Aponte

Anisha is a graduate of Thomas R. Proctor High School, where she competed in cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track from 2023 to 2026. Through years of distance running, she developed the perseverance, discipline, and mental toughness that have shaped her both as an athlete and as a leader.

Beyond athletics, Anisha is committed to giving back to her community. She has volunteered at youth cross country and track meets, encouraging young runners and helping them build confidence, while also serving with nonprofit organizations that support local families and community initiatives. These experiences have strengthened her leadership, empathy, and belief in the value of service.

As a recipient of the E. J. Herrmann Scholarship, Anisha is recognized for her dedication, resilience, and commitment to uplifting others. She plans to continue her education and carry forward the values of hard work, integrity, and community service that have guided her journey.

Jacob Johnson

Jacob Johnson is a student leader, scholar-athlete, distance runner, and community volunteer with a passion for service, learning, and personal growth. As a Rotary Youth Exchange student, he spent ten months living in France, gaining independence, cultural awareness, and fluency in French while developing the confidence to embrace new challenges.

Jacob has distinguished himself both academically and athletically, earning High Honor Roll recognition, AP Scholar honors, induction into the National Honor Society, the Elmira College Key Award for Academic and Community Leadership, and the New York State Seal of Biliteracy in English and French. A captain of his varsity cross-country team, he was a Section III Class C and Conference Champion in the 800-meter run and was recognized as a Scholar-Athlete and league All-Star.

Dedicated to giving back, Jacob contributed more than 70 hours of community service through mentoring, fundraising, volunteer initiatives, and founding his school's first Mock Trial Club. This fall, he will attend Le Moyne College, where he looks forward to continuing his academic pursuits, community involvement, and leadership journey.

Keelyn Simpson

Keelyn's journey has been shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and a passion for helping others. Growing up, she often felt overlooked and struggled to find where she belonged. Everything changed when she discovered running, which became the first passion she truly pursued for herself.

Through running, Keelyn developed confidence, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of identity. As a team captain, she fostered meaningful relationships with her teammates and helped create a supportive environment focused on growth and success. Her love for the sport also led her to mentor elementary cross country and track athletes, encouraging young runners to believe in themselves and embrace their potential.

Today, Keelyn is dedicated to helping others build confidence, find belonging, and recognize that their differences can be their greatest strengths. She believes that success comes from trusting the process, investing in yourself, and having the courage to stand out rather than blend in.

The E. J. Herrmann Scholarships

Past Winners

2025-2026 E.J. Herrmann Scholarships Awarded

Anisha Alvarado Aponte

Jacob Johnson

Keelyn Simpson

Past E. J. Herrmann Scholarship Winners

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