Scholarship fund established for former Utica teacher
UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — The family of the Columbus Elementary School principal who passed away unexpectedly last year is now looking to help students reach their own potential.
The family of Elizabeth Gerling recently established the Elizabeth Gerling Legacy Scholarship fund at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida County. The fund serves as a meaningful way to continue her work.
Gerling had been a teacher in the Utica City School District in 2004, eventually becoming the assistant principal at Proctor High School. She eventually became the principal of Columbus Elementary in 2013 until her death last August.
'Growing up, I watched my mom pour her heart into her work at Proctor High School and Columbus Elementary. She believed in every student and gave them everything she had—her time, care, and belief in their potential,' Noah Gerling, Elizabeth's son, said in a statement. 'I've always been proud to be her son, but knowing this scholarship will help the same students she devoted her life to makes me even prouder.'
To apply for the scholarship, candidates must be attending Proctor High School and have attended Columbus Elementary School. Candidates must also intend to continue their education after graduation from Proctor High School.
There will be a dinner to raise funds for the scholarship fund on Friday, June 13 at Harts Hill Inn in Whitesboro. All proceeds from the dinner will directly support the scholarship fund.
If you would like to make a charitable donation to the fund or get more information, you are encouraged to visit this link. You may also send checks — payable to the Elizabeth Gerling Scholarship Fund — to the Community Foundation, 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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