July 16, 2024 — Olivia N. Bernier, the daughter of PEF member Nestor Bernier, a habilitation specialist with the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, was awarded a $2,000 scholarship through the Union Plus Scholarship program. She was one of 209 union members and family members awarded a total of $200,000 in scholarships.
“Ever since I was young, my father has always stressed the importance of education,” Olivia said. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always pushed myself to excel in academics.”
Olivia graduated third in her class from Eastridge High School in Rochester this year. She excelled in both academics and in contributions to school culture, serving as editor of the Writing Club, captain of Girl’s Varsity Tennis and Bowling, president of the National Honor Society, planner for the Red Cross Club, head planner for the Hispanic Heritage Committee, sole student ambassador for the Handbook Revision Committee, as well as a member of the Orientation Team.
Throughout her academic career, Olivia has been honored with a handful of awards and recognitions, including the U of R George Eastman Young Leaders Award, a scholarship from the Hispanic Youth Foundation, recognition from the Notre Dame Club of Rochester, as well as the NYS Scholarship through Eastridge High.
“As I now head toward further education, the importance of scholarships and monetary assistance are striking,” she said. “Education is incredibly expensive. Thankfully, I have been fortunate enough to have been granted some assistance. This takes some of the financial burden off my father and I. Thank you to Union Plus and PEF for this scholarship!”
The Union Plus Scholarship Program has provided more than 30 years of higher education support for working families. The Union Plus Scholarship awards are presented annually to union members or members of their families who want to begin or continue their post-secondary education. Scholarships range from $500 to $4,000.
Each year, the application deadline is January 31. You can apply for a 2025 award here.