The Garden City Historical Society congratulates Garden City High School senior Kelsey Tierney, the 2013 recipient of the Stewart Fund Scholarship in Memory of St. Mary’s and St. Paul’s, presented annually by The Garden City Historical Society. Criteria for the $2,500 scholarship includes placement in the top 10 percent of the class, demonstration of excellence and enthusiasm in social studies, and evidence of quality community service.
Tierney graduated with a weighted GPA of 100.04, and will attend Cornell University, where she will major in industrial and labor relations. She plans to become a lawyer and work in the field of government.
The scholarship winner says that her teachers greatly influenced her interest in social studies. Nominated by her AP United States History teacher, she was selected as a representative of the American Legion Auxiliary to attend the 2012 Empire Girls State, a prestigious summer program where girls run the government of an imaginary 51st state. “While there, we learned the working of the U.S. government…we campaigned, ran nominating conventions and elected officials,” she said. “I was elected secretary of state, out of the 365 girls in attendance.” During her high school sophomore year, Tierney shadowed Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy for a day. She credits both experiences with sparking her interest in pursuing a career in government.
As president of the 2013 Senior Class, Kelsey helped direct fundraising campaigns that benefited various charities, in addition to organizing dances and helping to create a healthy environment for students. She was a member of the National Honor Society and president of the French National Honor Society, an AP Scholar and recipient of the 2009 Long Island Language Teachers’ Award.
Tierney served as president of the Girls’ Athletic Association and played varsity basketball, soccer and badminton. She was named a Scholar Athlete in 2010, 2011 and 2012, and was a member of the 2010 Garden City High School soccer team that went on to win the state championship. Her athletic awards include 2012 All-Class Soccer, and 2011 and 2012 Badminton All-Conference/Conference Champions.
A well-rounded student, athlete and volunteer, Tierney participated in Top Soccer for children with special needs, the 2012 Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged, and Soccer Fest, as well as serving as a referee for the Garden City Centennials and training soccer goalkeepers. Her activities include working in the Garden City summer enrichment program, tutoring, and playing piano.
