2024-2025 E.J. Herrmann Scholarships Awarded

The East Utica Optimist Club is pleased to announce the recipients of the Edward J. Herrmann Scholarships for 2024-2025. The organization salutes the three individuals who are the most recent recipients of the E.J. Herrmann Scholarships. The three scholarship winners are superb harriers, accustomed to the rigors and challenges of academia, and have made an impact on their respective schools and communities. All have demonstrated the ability to overcome obstacles through determination, persistence, and intrepidness to attain noteworthy running achievement and academic success.

Simon Evans

Simon began running at a young age and entered competitive racing in eighth grade. Over the years, Simon has achieved remarkable success, earning WAC league championship titles in the 1600m, 3200m track events, and cross-country events. As a senior, he led the Galway High School cross country team to its first sectional championship and state meet appearance in 25 years, a testament to his leadership and determination.

Beyond competition, Simon organized the Blue Jean Mile at Galway High School to raise awareness for mental health, and he has coordinated local races for Ainsley's Angels, an organization that promotes inclusion in athletic events. Simon's commitment to inclusion is deeply personal—his older brother races using an adaptive running wheelchair.

Simon's coaches and teachers all noted Simon's commitment and exceptional work ethic. Simon is a well-rounded student, who is a member of the National Honor Society, anchor for the Student Broadcast, Student Senate, and talented musician playing for piano and as a member of the Marching Band.

Tyson Fuller

Tyson started his athletic career as a football player and wanted to improve his speed to have an advantage on the football field. After dedicating himself to improving his three-mile running time, he discovered that he enjoyed running so much he left football (and baseball) behind and focused on being a distance runner. He has participated in many events throughout high school, holding Oneida High School Course Records in cross country and being a Tri-Valley league champion for 1600 meters indoor and outdoor track.

Whether in the classroom, on the athletic field or within his community, Tyson exhibits a level of responsibility and integrity that sets him apart.

The work ethic that Tyson put forth to improve his running is also displayed in his dedication to his class work, extracurricular activities, and community service. Tyson is the Salutatorian of his senior class at Oneida High School and a member of National Honor Society, Mathletics and Science Olympiad teams. His teachers have noted that in addition to his unwavering commitment to success, Tyson is a role model for his peers, always willing to support and uplift those around him.

John Musante

In addition to John being a standout runner in middle school and high school, John is a hardworking student who brings a deep passion for learning, a tireless work ethic, and a commitment to making a difference in his community.

John is a league all-star and New York State Championship Meet qualifying distance runner; John is well-respected by running competitors for both cross country and indoor and outdoor track.

John is an Eagle Scout, being involved in scouting since fourth grade. Those skills that he exemplified as a scout carried over as a team leader for his fellow runners and a role model to younger athletes.

John is the Salutatorian of the Clinton Central School class of 2025, involved in community service by volunteering at the Oneida County Historical Center and food drives. He is also an All-Country musician, member of the National Honor Society and Science Olympiad team.

Past E. J. Herrmann Scholarship Winners