WATKINS GLEN - Up to three Schuyler County graduates will be awarded the 2008 Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship of $750 in June. Seniors at Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford Central Schools are eligible to apply for the award, which honors a former member of The Arc of Schuyler Board of Directors.

Scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors pursuing education in special education or human services or a related clinical area such as nursing, psychology, speech pathology, or physical/occupational therapy, which will be used in a career providing supports to people with developmental disabilities.

The Arc of Schuyler has identified serious workforce issues facing organizations providing supports and services to people with disabilities. This scholarship program focuses on informing students, parents, schools and the community at large that there are important and rewarding jobs and a variety of career opportunities working with and for people with disabilities.

Joanne S. Hayes was a past board member and president of The Arc of Schuyler, who lived in Odessa before her death in 1987. She was a strong advocate for career and employee training. "This education fund is a fitting tribute to her commitment to The Arc and to our workforce," said James Wilson, executive director of The Arc.

Eligible applicants must submit the following to their school guidance office by June 4, 2008:

• Completed application

• Legible essay (no more than two double-spaced pages)

• Two letters of reference

• GPA, Class Rank, SAT Scores

Applications are available at school guidance offices or can be obtained by contacting Erin Will, director of human resources at The Arc of Schuyler between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Arc of Schuyler is celebrating 30 years of supporting people with disabilities and their families in Schuyler County and provides a wide array of services to over 300 people on a daily basis. For more information on The Arc or its services and supports call 607-535-6934 or visit our website at www.arcofschuyler.org .