Apalachin, New York Student Wins Military Spouse Scholarship

Empire State University student Cynthia Melanson has been awarded the Loretta Cornett-Huff Scholarship at the Council of College Military Educators (CCME) annual conference.

This $1,000 scholarship is given to military spouses enrolled in accredited educational programs, and Melanson, an Apalachin native, was one of five students selected.

A Heartfelt Gratitude for Military Spouses

“I’m grateful to see a scholarship dedicated to military spouses,” Melanson said. “The education benefits for spouses are limited, so it’s nice to be recognized for our sacrifices as well.”

Choosing Empire State University for Flexibility

Melanson chose Empire State University for its online courses, which allowed her to manage her severe social anxiety. “The flexibility of online learning was key for me,” she explained.

Support Through ACCES-VR Program

Through the New York State Education Department’s ACCES-VR program, Melanson received accommodations and financial assistance, avoiding student loans. “They’ve been a great support, helping me with everything I need,” she said.

Pushing Beyond Comfort Zones

Melanson stepped outside her comfort zone by attending in-person residencies, including the Revolutionary War program in fall 2024. “It was great meeting my professors and classmates in person,” she shared.

Persevering Through Personal Loss

Despite losing her sister-in-law and mother during her first two semesters, Melanson found comfort in her choice to study at Empire State University. “Empire was the right fit. My professors were understanding, and I could take my work with me,” she said.

A Dedicated and Resilient Student

Associate Professor Paul Miller, Melanson’s mentor, praises her dedication: “Cynthia is a thoughtful, engaged student with nearly a perfect GPA. She excels in online, residency, and independent study formats, overcoming any challenges she faces.”

A Bright Future Ahead

Melanson’s story of perseverance and resilience is an inspiration to others, especially military spouses, showing that education is achievable despite life’s challenges.

Seven Upstate NY Forts and One Epic Military Museum. You Should Go!!

For history lovers and military buffs, there is just so much to see, explore, and re-live in Upstate New York. This gallery focuses on seven historic forts in our Upstate region. PLUS, we have also added the New York State Military Museum in Saratoga. It is incredible!

All are open to the public, and all have an active calendar of events for the public to enjoy. From exhibits, guest speakers, re-enactments, and other special events. These bastions of our democracy have stood the test of time and are ready to welcome a new generation of visitors this year.

The locations of these forts range from the Adirondacks to the western frontier of New York, and everywhere in between. Each fort is described in this gallery with a link to their social media sites so you can prepare a visit with all the directions and data you need. Tens of thousands will visit these historic places this summer and we encourage you to do the same!

Gallery Credit: Chuck D'Imperio