The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) awarded the 2017 FASNY Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship to Ryan Motchkavitz, who received a certificate and scholarship of $1,500 for his volunteer service in the community from Robert Ottaviano, a member of the FASNY Board of Directors.
“I joined the fire department because my family has been involved in the Great Neck Alert Fire Company for over 70 years,” said Motchkavitz. “My grandfather George and his twin brother, Lenny, are both ex-chiefs and ex-presidents, and celebrated 70 years in the fire company last fall.”
Motchkavitz will attend the University of Delaware this fall, where he will study history. After earning his degree, his goal is to become involved in emergency management within the National Parks system. Outside of the fire department, Motchkavitz is the president of Great Neck South High School’s Robotics team. He is also an officer in DECA, the school’s business club, plays varsity lacrosse and is a member of the Support Our Troops Club.
Motchkavitz was one of 20 students chosen for this scholarship, which is awarded based on an applicant’s volunteer service with an organization such as the local fire department, Scouts, religious organization, school, work with senior citizens, fire prevention and other projects. Additional criteria include consistent demonstration of good character and completion of a written essay.
“It was an honor to be recognized by FASNY and the fire service, particularly from such a strong field of candidates across New York State,” he said.
For more information about FASNY, which represents the interests of the approximately 110,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel in New York State, visit www.fasny.com.
