New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle today announced that the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is now accepting applications for four $1,500 scholarships to be awarded June 10th at their Annual Legislative Conference Day. Scholarship winners must be present to receive their awards.

"It's no secret that college tuition is rising and students and their families must take advantage of every opportunity to meet their required expenses with scholarships in addition to student loans, available financial aid, and personal contributions," Senator LaValle said. "I recommend that students from the First Senatorial District apply to the Conference for these prestigious scholarships so that they may hopefully secure as much extra help with their expenses as possible."

This year, the Italian-American State Legislators Conference will be awarding four $1,500 scholarships to four current or future college students from New York State. Eligibility will be based upon the student's grade point average, interest in pursuing a higher education, involvement in the local community as well as individual financial need.

The Conference is bipartisan organization of New York State Assembly and Senate members who are actively involved in promoting and celebrating the state's Italian-American community. The Conference mission is to work hard to elevate and highlight Italian-American contributions to the State of New York and beyond, in all aspects of society, including literature, the arts, architecture and politics. The conference also tries to dispel negative stereotypes of Italian-Americans.

"I am proud of my role in promoting higher education and assisting students in reaching their academic goals and full potential," Senator LaValle continued.

Area students may download the application online at senatorlavalle.com.

Applications must be completed and returned to Senator LaValle's office at the close of business on May 3