MHA in Ulster Presents 2026 Scholarships

The Mental Health Association in Ulster County Inc. (MHA) presented the 2026 May Evans & Lucille Pritchard Endowment Fund Scholarship at the MHA offices in Kingston.

The May Evans & Lucille Pritchard Scholarships are awarded to encourage the education of individuals to assist in helping others; especially to aid in the prevention and treatment of mental health related problems.  The scholarships for $1,500.00 each are presented every other year to exceptional students from Ulster County who are pursuing a degree in the Mental Health field.

The 2026 Scholarships were presented to:

Sophia Thomas – a New Paltz resident and SUNY New Paltz graduate. Sophia is pursuing her Master of Social Work at Syracuse University with an anticipated graduation in 2028. After that she plans to continue her education and obtain her doctorate.

Joan Devine – a New Paltz resident and Roger Williams University graduate.  Joan is currently attending SUNY New Paltz pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Joan plans to continue working with children and families when she completes her degree.

(pictured L-R, Chris Decker, Sr. Director Resource Development, Joan Devine, Board Members Mellissa Gray and Laura Maccione, Sophia Thomas)