The New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is now accepting applications for four $1,500 scholarships to be awarded statewide in June at their annual Conference Weekend. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) is the Vice President of the conference and may submit two applications. Winners were selected from her district in 2006, 2007 and 2010.

“Our conference is proud of our role in assisting students in their college careers,” said Lupardo. “The fact that three winners in the past five years were selected from the Southern Tier demonstrates the quality of our schools, teachers and students.”

The conference annually awards two scholarships for academic achievement and two scholarships for athletics. The scholarships are based on several factors, including grade point average, extra curricular activities, athletic achievements, community involvement and financial need.

Students must be a senior in high school or first year student in college to be eligible. All applicants must also reside in the 126th Assembly District, which includes the City of Binghamton, the Town of Vestal and the Town of Union (including Endwell, and the Villages of Endicott and Johnson City).

For additional information or to request an application, area students can contact Lupardo’s office at (607) 723-9047 or email lupardod@assembly.state.ny.us. All applications must be received in Lupardo’s office by 5:00pm on Friday, April 29, 2011.