Carmen Rivera-Gotay Memorial Scholarship

Carmen Rivera-Gotay had just completed her junior year at Huntington High School when she died in a car accident. To honor her memory, her mother, Carolyn Gotay, and the Schlitt Law Firm have created the Carmen Rivera-Gotay Memorial Scholarship. The Huntington School Board officially recognized the scholarship at their meeting on March 24, 2014.

“Carmen was full of life,” said her mother, “and we didn’t want people to remember her by tragedy, but by the good she did for others.” To honor Carmen’s life and spirit, this scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior who contributed to the overall spirit of Huntington High School through a positive attitude and community involvement. This scholarship honors Carmen’s memory by recognizing a student who shines not because of athletic or academic excellence, but because of the fullness of his or her heart, brightness of personality and willingness to give of him or herself.

Carol L. Schlitt founding partner of the Schlitt Law Firm said, “When Carolyn asked us to represent the family, we wanted to do more than handle the tragedy, we wanted to keep Carmen’s name alive.” The Schlitt Law Firm has agreed to endow the scholarship for twenty years. Carolyn Gotay said, “Carmen brought joy to so many and this is a way to continue to spread that joy.”

To be eligible, a student must meet the following criteria:

 Has demonstrated community involvement through activities in school or the community
 Has been a positive force in the school through his or her caring and respectful interaction with his or her fellow students
 Has been accepted to a two or four year college or university, trade or vocational school
 Has a GPA ranking above the 25th percentile and no higher than the 75th percentile
 Be on track to graduate at the end of the school year

The award will consist of a $500 scholarship for use to defray school costs and a plaque honoring the recipient.
Interested students can pick up an application at the Guidance Department, at the Schlitt Law Firm or download one from www.carmenriveragotay.com.

The Schlitt Law Firm is a mission-driven, plaintiff-only personal injury and medical malpractice firm serving the New York metropolitan area.

For more information, please visit www.SchlittLaw.com or call 1-800-660-1466.