August 20, 2024 — PEF Region 1 has announced the winners of their annual scholarship program. Applicants are the child, grandchild, stepchild or legally adopted child of an active Region 1 PEF member. The scholarship applies to any student pursuing an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree and is named for Judi Scanlon, a PEF member and nurse from the Buffalo area who was killed by a patient while conducting a home visit. This scholarship opportunity has been offered in honor of Scanlon for 21 years.
Many students applied for the scholarship, but only four were winners.
As part of their applications, students were asked to write an essay to describe the importance of labor unions and how they impact workplace health and safety programs.
Alexandra Padilla is the daughter of Peter Padilla, who is a member of Division 337 and works at the Office of Children and Family Services.
“Labor unions can be literally defined as a group of organized workers formed to protect and further their rights, but it is so much more than that,” Padilla wrote in her essay. “The union itself has positively set its mark by impacting workplaces health and safety programs through protocol and awareness.”
Cole Benson is the son of Kathryn Benson, who is a member of Division 168 and works for Homes and Community Renewal.
“From unfair wages to safety concerns, unions provide an effective way to report any grievances one may have while working,” Benson wrote. “And they are always looking to improve on the status of the workplace.”
Sienna Uebelhoer is the daughter of Paul Uebelhoer, who is a member of Division 219 and works for the Department of Transportation.
“From food production, construction, manufacturing, and service industries, including health care, workers are far safer than they would be without the oversight and Labor Unions fighting for their rights,” Uebelhoer said in her essay.
Jerzy Nowak is the son of Annmarie Nowak, who is a member of Division 196 and works for Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Care Center.
“Growing up as a son to a union member mother, I had the advantage of having instilled in me an appreciation for hard work, solidarity and standing up for your beliefs,” said Nowak in his essay. “These values have been a major force in shaping my character.”
Region 1 Coordinator Michele Iorfida congratulated the winners and wished them success in their college careers.