Joseph Scacalossi Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by New York State Public Employees Federation
Introduction
PEF offers two named scholarships that support members and their families: the Joseph Scacalossi Scholarship and the Jean DeBow Women in PEF Scholarship. Below are the program details, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines.
Joseph Scacalossi Scholarship
Founded in 1988 as a tribute to a member of the state Department of Labor who helped establish PEF and advocated for his colleagues in Manhattan, the Joseph Scacalossi Scholarship provides multi-year financial support to students. Each year ten recipients are selected; each student receives $1,000 per year for four consecutive years. Learn about the 2025 recipients on PEF’s website. The 2026 application is now available.
Eligibility: Applicants must be a child, stepchild, or ward of a PEF member (active, retired, or deceased). The award is open to high school seniors and college freshmen.
Jean DeBow Women in PEF Scholarship
This scholarship commemorates former PEF Vice-President Jean DeBow. One $1,000 award is presented annually at the PEF Convention to an active female PEF member who is pursuing accredited postsecondary education in any field.
How to Apply
Application instructions and required materials are posted online.
Deadline
Completed applications must be received at PEF headquarters by May 1 each year.