Jacqueline Allalouf of Pearl River, New York is the winner of the 2002 HACKENSACK RIVERKEEPER ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD. Ms. Allalouf was selected from among a very strong field of applicants from schools across the Hackensack River watershed to receive the one thousand dollar award. "Jackie's parents have much to be proud of," said Capt. Bill. "She has proven to all of us beyond a shadow of a doubt that she has the intellect, the skills, and the commitment to succeed."

Regarding the essay which she included in her scholarship application, Capt. Bill noted that Jacqueline, a Civil Air Patrol search-and rescue volunteer, "is someone who not only cares about the natural world; she truly revels in it." As part of her tenure in CAP and other camping and survival programs, she has learned which trees are edible and poisonous, how to identify and track animals, and how to create tools from scraps of wood, rocks, and willow branches.

Her academics are perhaps even more extraordinary than her survival skills. As a high school junior she participated in an Advanced Placement Environmental Science course, which is normally reserved for seniors. After absorbing the curriculum, she scored a 5 on the AP test, the highest grade bestowed to test-takers. The following year, she became a classroom assistant for the evolving course.

"It was so very hard to choose one student from among such a fine field of applicants and we salute them all because they are the best of the best," said Capt. Bill. "And as far as Jackie is concerned, I'm certain that she'll not only succeed in her life; she will most assuredly enrich all our lives as well."

The award, which was established last year at the behest of an anonymous benefactor, is presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated both academic prowess and a personal commitment to the environment. The Captain continued, "We're very happy to recognize Jackie's achievements and to do our small part to help her college career." Ms. Allalouf received her award from Capt. Bill and Hackensack Riverkeeper Program Director Hugh Carola on July 17 in front of what is now her alma mater, Pearl River High School.

Ms. Allalouf has been accepted to the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry located in Syracuse, NY where she will develop her already impressive environmental prowess with the intent to "make a difference in this world through education, knowledge, and action."

Jacqueline Allalouf of Pearl River, NY,
receives her scholarship from Capt. Bill.