Seaford Student Challenged by Hearing Loss Wins Scholarship

Story by Felicia Febrizio of Seaford School District 

There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when Seaford High School senior Jessica Adelman was awarded the Patricia Wallace Memorial Scholarship during a small, private ceremony in the guidance office. The $1,000 award recognizes a Nassau County student who has displayed outstanding effort, perseverance and academic achievement despite the challenges of hearing impairment. 

James Wallace presented the award, named in memory of his wife, Patricia, who was a Nassau BOCES teacher for the hearing impaired and, for many years, worked with students in their school districts overcome their disabilities and succeed in academics and in life.

Impressed by Adelman’s academic record, Wallace said, “There are three reasons why you are so deserving of this scholarship: your ability to achieve a high GPA and maintain a rigorous course load, including AP English and pre-calculus; the tremendous effort you put into your studies, and your perseverance to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.”

Dr. Judy Masone, principal of the Nassau BOCES Program for Hearing Services, applauded Adelman’s outstanding efforts, and the incredible support of her parents and the school environment. She also praised Denise Sheridan, the Nassau BOCES teacher for the hearing impaired who worked with Adelman in Seaford High School.

“I can’t begin to say how driven and passionate you are, “Masone said. “Everything you do is well-researched and well thought out. Many, many thank yous.”

Adelman plans to attend Towson University in the fall to study psychology. She is the 10th recipient in as many years to receive the Patricia Wallace award.

“I am extremely honored to receive this special award,” Adelman said. “It was a complete surprise.”