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The Charles V. Costello Memorial
Scholarship Program Offered through the Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment, Inc. Supported by Binghamton Lions Club Charities and A.V.R.E. individual donors. “Education is a journey, not a destination.” Mr. Charles Costello served as a member of the board of directors of the Association. He was known for his astute leadership, warm hospitality, and wonderful sense of humor. He encountered a vision disability later in life. This allowed him to bring personal knowledge of Association services as well as business and community acumen to his board service. In a career spanning six decades, Mr. Costello served innumerable non-profit, professional and community causes and organizations. He was an internationally recognized expert on water quality and treatment systems and traveled to many other countries as a consultant. He served as Superintendent of the Binghamton City Bureau of Water from 1963 to his retirement in 1978. Mr. Costello had a deep personal interest in higher education, having returned to college after military service during WWII. He assisted and encouraged many others to pursue or return to post high school education. It was his community service, dedication to the Association, and love of education that led to the creation of this scholarship program. Mrs. Beverly Costello and A.V.R.E. established the Memorial Scholarship Program in 2002, to honor the memory and contributions of her husband. The program is designed to provide financial assistance to blind or visually impaired individuals in the pursuit of career-directed post high school education or training. Awards (if any) are competitive within the eligibility and priority criteria of the scholarship program. The program is focused on assisting qualified applicants who are pursuing a degree or certificate in the sciences, technology or business fields. However, all eligible individuals are encouraged to apply. All levels of post high school education or training will be considered. Award Amounts and Number Applicant Eligibility (Must meet all criteria.) Residence Students who are currently enrolled at and attending a post high school college or training in the above New York and Pennsylvania counties, but whose home residence is elsewhere are also eligible to apply. Degree of Vision Enrollment or Acceptance Priorities Priorities The program will use the following priorities as guides in its decision making and selection process: 1. A priority will be offered for
applicants who are legally blind. Applicants must include the following items: 1. Proof of acceptance of current
enrollment at an accredited post high school education or training
institution. 5. A transcript showing most recent or current grade point average. How, When, and Where to Apply Submit a complete application package to: The Charles V. Costello Memorial
Scholarship Applications must be received by July 15 for consideration for the following fall semester. A.V.R.E. The Association is a private, non-profit organization that assists people who are blind or visually impaired, of all ages, in seven New York and three Pennsylvania counties. Originated in 1926 by a group of blind people and incorporated in 1929, the Association provides a range of independent living, learning, and employment services. The Association generates its income through manufacturing and service contracts, its endowments, donations from the public, and grants. It does not receive direct financial support from any government agency. Funding for the Charles V.
Costello Memorial Scholarship Contributions to this fund or other programs of the Association will be gratefully accepted and acknowledged. Any such donations may be tax deductible. For more information, contact us at 607-724-2428, or email avreinfo@avreus.org. Close this window to return to the Scholarship Page.
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