Joseph A. Juszkiewicz SCHOLARSHIP

We were thrilled to award the 2026 Joseph A. Juszkiewicz scholarships to four outstanding students in May.

Joseph William Higgins (Akron High School)

Joseph Higgins is awarded this scholarship in recognition of his strong academic preparation, demonstrated leadership, and clear commitment to a professional career in environmental engineering. As a future Environmental Resources Engineering major at SUNY ESF, Joseph has already taken meaningful steps toward the profession through his internship with Arcadis, where he is gaining hands‑on experience in civil and environmental engineering. His leadership as Rotary Interact Club President, combined with sustained community service, varsity athletics, and academic rigor, reflects a well‑rounded candidate aligned with AWMA’s mission. Joseph’s thoughtful essay on artificial intelligence in environmental engineering further demonstrates his technical curiosity and readiness to engage with emerging challenges in the field.

Maggie Brown (Cato-Meridian Jr. Sr. High School)

Maggie Brown is recognized for her exceptional academic achievement, outstanding leadership, and deep personal commitment to environmental stewardship and education. Ranking near the top of her class with a rigorous academic record, Maggie has balanced excellence in the classroom with state‑level athletic accomplishments, student government leadership, and sustained community service. Her essay on sustainable trail engineering in the Adirondacks effectively integrates environmental science, engineering concepts, and real‑world impacts, reflecting both technical understanding and personal passion. Maggie’s long‑term goal of becoming an environmental science educator positions her to extend the impact of this scholarship through future generations, exemplifying AWMA’s values of service, education, and environmental responsibility.

Audrey Bombard (Skaneateles High School)

Audrey Bombard is awarded this scholarship in recognition of her extraordinary academic excellence, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to environmental science. As a top‑ranked student and class president, Audrey has consistently pursued the most rigorous coursework available, including AP and advanced environmental studies completed independently. Her extensive involvement with Envirothon, environmental clubs, and community service underscores a sustained and authentic dedication to environmental issues. Faculty and counselor recommendations describe Audrey as an exceptional thinker, leader, and mentor, making her an ideal representative of the AWMA scholarship program and a candidate with outstanding long‑term potential in environmental science or policy.

Demi Mouillesseaux (Hobart and William Smith)

Demi Mouillesseaux is recognized for her strong academic performance, applied environmental experience, and clear professional purpose within the geoscience field. As a geoscience major with a minor in entrepreneurship at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Demi has combined classroom excellence with extensive hands‑on experience working in septic system installation and water protection. Her essay on water pollution mitigation demonstrates both technical understanding and personal investment rooted in lived experience around New York’s lakes. Faculty recommendations highlight her reliability, leadership, and aptitude for field‑based science, making her a strong example of AWMA’s emphasis on practical environmental solutions and responsible environmental management.