Memorial scholarship established for former New Hartford student

The Jean M. Hernon-Kallus ‘82 Memorial Scholarship Fund was recently established at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties by the family and friends of Hernon-Kallus, a 1982 graduate of New Hartford Central School District.

After her death in April 2022, Hernon-Kallus’ family, her 1982 classmates, as well as her friends and professional colleagues, established this scholarship fund to honor her spirit by providing financial assistance to graduating seniors who share her intellectual curiosity, love of learning, interest in athletics, and commitment to volunteering in the community.

While a student at New Hartford High School, Hernon-Kallus excelled academically, actively participated in athletics, and gave generously of her time and talents as a volunteer in the community. She went on to have a successful legal career and was employed as the assistant chief attorney of the Legal Aid Society of Orange County, NY at the time of her death.

“We wanted to keep Jean’s memory and spirit alive in the community for as long as possible,” said Paul Hernon, Jean’s brother. “When talking with her friends, family and peers, we decided to establish this scholarship to give financial assistance to two graduating New Hartford seniors. We wanted to give back in a way that would highlight Jean’s love of education while also helping students further their education, whether it be at a community college or at law school like Jean. We just wanted to give back to the community that helped make Jean the wonderful person that she was.”

Eligible scholarship applicants are required to have graduated from the New Hartford Central School District and preferred criteria include those who are academically qualified for inclusion in the National Honor Society, multi-year participation in junior-varsity or varsity sports, involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteering in local communities and those who demonstrate intellectual curiosity.

To make a charitable donation in Hernon-Kallus’ memory, go online to www.foundationhoc.org/hernonkallus or send checks payable to the Jean M. Hernon-Kallus ‘82 Memorial Scholarship Fund to the Community Foundation, 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502.