NorthCountryNow 2026

NORTH COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT
Enhancing discipline, teamwork, leadership
This page sponsored by Lalonde Family Initiative

JUNE 13-19, 2026 | NORTH COUNTRY THIS WEEK | MASSENA-OGDENSBURG, NY | 15

Lalonde Family Initiative awards $70,000 in scholarships to 4 St. Lawrence Central grads

BRASHER FALLS — The Lalonde Family Initiative is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026 scholarship awards totaling $70,000 to support four exceptional student-athletes from St. Lawrence Central High School as they pursue their higher education goals.

This year, LFI introduced the Allen Tower Jr. Scholarship, awarded to its top recipient, Mary-Cate Dow. Additional Lalonde Family Scholarships have been awarded to Sophia Guerard and Maddyson Bernard. Finally, LFI has established the Bob Lalonde Scholarship Award, in memory of LFI Chairperson Karen Lalonde Ice's father, given to Brian Eggleston.

These students were selected from a competitive pool of applicants based on their positive participation in athletic programs, commitment to teamwork, community leadership and modeling excellent citizenship.

The Lalonde Family Initiative hosted a scholarship award ceremony May 17 at Pike's Place to celebrate the achievements of the 2026 scholarship recipients, their families and guests.

Caption: Four St. Lawrence Central senior athletes have been awarded 2026 Lalonde Family Initiative scholarships. Pictured from left Karen Lalonde Ice, Chairperson; students Brian Eggleston, Sophia Guerard, Maddyson Bernard, Mary-Cate Dow; Michelle Lalonde, Board Member; and Derek Lalonde, Vice Chairman.

Mary-Cate Dow

$30,000 scholarship recipient

Mary-Cate Dow, recipient of the inaugural Allen Tower Jr. Scholarship, exemplifies excellence in athletics, academics and leadership. A three-sport athlete, Dow was a four-year varsity soccer player, helping lead St. Lawrence Central to Class C championships in 2023 and 2025 while earning second-team All-Northern honors twice. She was also a member of the 2024 and 2025 Class C championship varsity softball teams and the 2024 Class C championship varsity basketball team.

Beyond athletics, Dow has been deeply involved in school and community activities, including serving as class president, Student Council member and treasurer of the National Honor Society. She has also contributed to the Spanish Club, Yearbook Committee, SACC Leadership Program, Prom Committee and served as president of the Outing Club. Dow will attend Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where she plans to continue her soccer career while pursuing studies in pre-health or biology.

Caption: From left Charlie Dow (brother), Jane Lantry (grandmother), Mary-Cate Dow and Elizabeth Lantry (mother).

Sophia Guerard

$20,000 scholarship recipient

Sophia Guerard, a recipient of a Lalonde Family Scholarship, has distinguished herself through exceptional academic achievement, leadership and service. As the Class of 2026 valedictorian, Guerard demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence while also competing as a varsity soccer player and competitive dancer.

A dedicated leader within her school and community, Guerard has served as president of the National Honor Society and secretary of the Student Council. She has also earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a rare and demanding achievement that reflects years of perseverance, leadership and community service. Guerard will attend Rochester Institute of Technology to pursue a degree in computer engineering.

Caption: Front from left Valarie Guerard (grandmother), Sophia Guerard, Sarena Guerard (mother). Middle row are Qaraline Guerard (sister) and Leah Guerard (sister). Back row Pierre Guerard (grandfather), Cornelius Guerard (brother), Jeffery Guerard (brother) and Marc Guerard (father).

Maddyson Bernard

$10,000 scholarship recipient

Maddyson Bernard, a recipient of a Lalonde Family Scholarship, has demonstrated a strong commitment to athletics, academics and career preparation throughout her high school years. A three-sport athlete, Bernard competed in varsity soccer, varsity softball and cheerleading, serving as head captain during her senior year.

Focused on a future in health care, Bernard participated in the BOCES New Visions Medical Careers Program, where she earned college credit while gaining hands-on experience through professional job-shadowing opportunities. She is a member of the National Honor Society and was selected to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum at Rice University. Bernard will attend St. Bonaventure University to study nursing.

Caption: From left are Matthew Bernard (father), Maddyson Bernard, and Amanda Bernard (mother).

Brian Eggleston

$10,000 scholarship recipient

Brian Eggleston, recipient of the inaugural Bob Lalonde Scholarship Award, has distinguished himself through athletic achievement, academic excellence and community service. Eggleston competed in cross country, indoor and outdoor track, earning recognition as an Athlete of Distinction and qualifying for the New York state championships in both cross country and track. While competing for Potsdam High School, he attended the state cross country championships and was a two-time recipient of the prestigious Sandstoner Award.

Beyond athletics, Eggleston is a member of the National Honor Society and was involved in Boy Scouts. He embodies the values of perseverance and personal growth celebrated by the Bob Lalonde Scholarship Award. Eggleston will attend Clarkson University to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering.

Caption: From left are Elizabeth Eggleston (mother), Brian Eggleston, Brian Eggleston (father) and Abby Eggleston (sister).