Winners of 2026 Donald R. Kellogg Memorial Scholarships announced

KATONAH, N.Y. - Two outstanding young men received the 2026 Donald R. Kellogg Memorial Scholarship during a ceremony at Katonah-Purdys United Methodist Church in Katonah. Awarded annually in memory of Donald R. Kellogg, the scholarship honors his selfless service and dedication to the community.

Eduardo "Eddie" Lopez, a Bedford firefighter and the Bedford Fire Department's 2025 Recruit of the Year, was the first recipient. Lopez joined the department's immersive Recruit Program at age 15. After learning the fundamentals of fire and rescue, he completed the New York State Firefighter I course and became a volunteer firefighter with the Bedford Fire Department.

In their nomination, President Gail Carmody and Chief Shawn Carmody described Lopez as embodying Donald R. Kellogg's spirit as a "quiet doer" through his generosity with both his time and knowledge. He serves as a role model for younger recruits, regularly teaching core firefighting skills and helping them prepare for the Firefighter I course. Lopez has also learned basic EMS skills so he can respond as an ambulance attendant in addition to answering fire and rescue calls, further demonstrating his commitment to the community. He will attend Syracuse University this fall.

The second recipient, Alex Palacio, was nominated by Corey Casey, co-leader of the Katonah-Purdys United Methodist Church chapter of the Appalachia Service Project. Casey said Alex brought a strong foundation of faith and a deep commitment to service when he joined the mission two years ago. Through his dedication, reliability, and compassion, he has made a meaningful impact on others.

Casey said Alex reflects Donald R. Kellogg's spirit as a "quiet doer" not only through his strong work ethic on job sites, but also through the time he takes to build connections with the homeowners the group serves. As president of the church's Youth Officers, he is consistently ready to help with sincerity, kindness, and a warm smile. In addition to his work with the Appalachia Service Project, Alex has volunteered with the Katonah Fire Department since becoming eligible at age 16.

Those wishing to contribute to the Donald R. Kellogg Scholarship Fund may make checks payable to Katonah-Purdys United Methodist Church, with "Donald R. Kellogg Scholarship Fund" noted in the memo line, and mail them to Katonah-Purdys United Methodist Church, 7 Bedford Road, Katonah, NY 10536.