Andrew Ochoa Islas Wins J.M. West Scholarship

Andrew Ochoa Islas has been one of Huntington High School’s best. The Class of 2026 member is this year’s recipient of the Joseph Michael West Vocational/STEM Scholarship following an excellent four year run.

To be considered for the scholarship a graduating senior must plan on either studying a trade or pursuing a college academic major in or related to science, technology, engineering or math.

Candidates for the award must be creative, ambitious, goal-oriented and scholarly. “It is preferred if the candidate is a hands-on learner and enjoys working on projects of any kind both in and out of the classroom,” states the scholarship criteria.

Huntington guidance counselor Dianela Spillane announced the names of this year’s recipients at the senior scholarships and awards ceremony in the high school auditorium.

Mr. Ochoa plans to study mechanical engineering at Stony Brook University. “I believe the key to my success has been my strong work ethic and dedication,” the senior said. “I’ve especially enjoyed collaborating with my friends and learning from the great teachers who have supported and challenged me. These experiences have helped shape both my academic interests and personal growth.

This year’s Joseph Michael West Vocational/STEM Scholarship was presented in the amount of $500. It is sponsored by Joseph West of Ontario, New York.