Student Receives Sheriff's Scholarship

Saray Quevedo is this year's recipient of the New York State Sheriff's Association scholarship. Newly-elected Onondaga County Sheriff Toby Shelley and Lieutenant Crayg Dykes came to campus February 15 and presented Quevedo with a certificate and a check. "This means so much to me to be recognized, and the money is important too. My mom is on disability and every penny helps."

Quevedo is a 2021 graduate of PSLA at Fowler who is enrolled in Onondaga Community College's Criminal Justice degree program. "From the moment I met Saray you could just feel her drive, her motivation, and her excitement to be in the Criminal Justice Field," said Criminal Justice Professor Jessica Wieczorek.

As a first generation college student, it took Quevedo time to feel comfortable in a higher education environment. "I don't have anyone at home to lead me. At first, I  was afraid to ask for help. I've gotten better at it."

Her willingness to put herself out there coupled with her hard work have been the keys to her success. She's a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society's Leadership Team, a Meg O'Connell Social Justice Scholar, the Campus Safety Advisory Committee, the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program, and the TRIO support program.

Quevedo will complete her associate degree in May 2024. She plans to earn her law degree and become a prosecutor so she can "stand up for victims." Professor Wieczorek is confident she'll do whatever she sets her mind to. "I have no doubt Saray will not only succeed, but excel in her future endeavors."