MHWC President, Elizabeth Doreo, stands beside Diana and Donna Zucca who are being honored for their longstanding and generous support of our scholarship fund. In the background is a photo of a young Marge Gagnon.
A Legacy of Harmony
The scholarship generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 depending on our available scholarship fund. Application availability and deadlines will be posted on the website when available, but the application period is each year in early spring.
The application should be available at all of the local high schools, or those wishing to apply can also print out the application. Feel free to make copies to share with the school Guidance Counselor, Music Teachers, and Scholarship Committee (if the school has one).
Special thanks to our scholarship patrons, the Zucca sisters, who help make this program possible. Our scholarship is named after Marge Gagnon, our devoted treasurer for many years, who passed away in March 2025.
2025: BROOKE OREGLIO
Scholarship Recipients
The 2025 Margaret L. Gagnon Memorial Scholarship has been awarded to Brooke Oreglio, a senior at Kingston High School. Brooke participates in marching band, concert band, jazz band, mixed chorus, choir caroling group, theatre and jazz ensemble.
Her musical achievements include Area All-State and NYSSMA. In addition to music, Brooke also participates in JV/varsity soccer and travel soccer. Brooke will be attending Ithaca college where she plans to major in music education and vocal performance.
2024: KOY JONES
2023: SAGE ROCHETTI
2022: NADIA DECICCO
2021: ANATASIA MARITSAS & SARAH LEKAJ
2020: FAITH DOWLEY
Eligibility & Criteria
Geographic Residency
Applicants must be graduating high school seniors residing within Ulster County.
Educational Pursuit
Candidates must demonstrate proof of acceptance or enrollment in a collegiate program to continue their education in the music field.
Musical Excellence
Qualified applicants are required to supply a recorded audition demonstrating musical proficiency and a sincere commitment to technical mastery.
Application Process
01
Requirement Review: Carefully examine all eligibility criteria and gather the necessary documents, including academic transcripts and proof of residency in Ulster County.
02
Letter of Recommendation: Obtain a letter of recommendation from a music instructor, teacher, or director who can attest to your technical proficiency and dedication to
musical excellence.
03
Form Submission: Complete the application form in its entirety and upload your supporting documents by the specified seasonal deadline.
04
Panel Interview: Successful candidates will be invited to a personal interview with our scholarship committee to discuss their musical aspirations and community involvement.
Common Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
The scholarship is open to graduating senior from Ulster County who will attend college to continue their education in the music field.
What materials are required for the application?
Applicants must provide a completed application form, a letter of recommendation from a music teach or instructor, and a prepared musical piece showcasing their talent. This can be provided on a flash drive or provide a link to a video or recording on Vimeo, YouTube, Spotify, etc.
When is the annual submission deadline?
All application packets must be submitted by April 6, 2026.
How are the scholarship recipients selected?
The scholarship committee will consider multiple factors, including the quality of the performance and the letter of recommendation from a teacher or instructor. The thoughtfulness and completeness of the application form will also be a key factor.
When will the scholarship be presented?
The scholarship will be presented at the Mid-Hudson Women's Chorus Spring Concert on May 3, 2026. The scholarship winner will be required to perform at this concert in appropriate concert attire.
Have more questions about the application process?
You can find contact information for the scholarship selection committee on the application form.