BEACH LAKE, PA — The Delaware Highlands Conservancy (DHC) has awarded the annual Vanessa Joy Van Gorder Memorial Scholarship of $2,000 to Jillian Hoey, a 2024 graduate of Honesdale High School.

 The scholarship was established in 2015 in honor of Vanessa Van Gorder, who passed away on December 25, 2014. A recent graduate from West Chester University with a degree in education, she was passionate about the outdoors and loved exploring the region with her friends and family. 

Hoey will attend the University of Scranton to focus on environmental studies. “I intend to pursue a career in land stewardship and environmental concerns because of my profound passion for sustainable practices and saving our environment,” she said. “I want to contribute meaningfully to addressing the pressing ecological challenges we face, and my aspiration reflects a personal dedication to fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet and its diverse ecosystems.”

In high school, Hoey was a member of the National Honor Society, the varsity field hockey and cheerleading teams, and was class treasurer for two years.

Contributions to the scholarship fund and other environmental education and conservation initiatives help continue to inspire youth and encourage study and careers in natural science and education. Donate online at DelawareHighlands.org or send a check to 571 Perkins Pond Rd., Beach Lake, PA 18405.

For more information, call 570/226-3164 or 845/583-1010, or visit www.DelawareHighlands.org.