HYDE PARK- Bellefield at Historic Hyde Park is making pursuing higher education a little easier with the establishment of a $500,000 scholarship program to benefit graduating Hyde Park Central School District seniors in financial need. Bellefield at Historic Hyde Park is a $1 billion tourism destination under development on Route 9, across from the Culinary Institute of America.
The Bellefield-Mulroy Family Scholarship Fund, created via a community benefit agreement between Bellefield and the school district, will provide $25,000 of scholarships each year for 20 years. Scholarships will be open to students pursuing a degree in education; STEM (science, technology, engineering or math); fine and performing arts; and the culinary arts. Recipients must attend a two-year or four-year college/university or vocational school in New York State.
The terms of the scholarship were determined in consultation with the Hyde Park Central School District. A committee, including a Bellefield representative, will consider potential recipients. Details on how to apply will be announced at a later date.
“Just as Bellefield is investing in Hyde Park, it’s equally as important to invest in Hyde Park’s youth and future,” said Thomas Mulroy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of T-Rex Capital Group LLC. “We’re pleased that the Bellefield-Mulroy Family Scholarship Fund will help motivated graduates realize their dreams, decrease tuition burdens and ultimately benefit the region’s quality of life for generations to come.
The Hyde Park Central School District’s Board of Education and Dr. Pedro Roman, Superintendent of Schools, are appreciative of Bellefield’s donation. According to the Board and Dr. Roman, “The Bellefield-Mulroy Family Scholarship Fund will support college and/or career pathways for students that will provide them with financial independence and positively shape their lives.”
Hyde Park Town Supervisor Alfred (Al) Torreggiani, who was instrumental in progressing the scholarship, said, “By establishing this generous scholarship, Bellefield at Historic Hyde Park will make Hyde Park an even more attractive place to raise a family.” He added, “the education of our youth always must be paramount and this scholarship – along with opportunities to eventually experience, learn from and potentially seek careers at Bellefield’s many attractions – are superb investments in our future.”
Michael Oates, President of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp., echoed that praise. “A singular focus for Bellefield has always been to ensure that Dutchess County remains a great place to live and work. Establishment of this impressive scholarship supports that,” he said. “Bellefield, as a multi-faceted hospitality and tourism destination, will not only be an immediate boon to the local economy, but also will advance the region’s growth and families for years to come.”
