Since 2002 the Scholar Recognition Program  year has honored outstanding scholars and the mentors who inspired their journeys.  The program began as an Otsego County Chamber of Commerce initiative. It has grown to be a program that enhances relationships between the business community, schools, and institutions of higher and continuing education. 

The Scholar Recognition ceremony recognizes outstanding scholastic achievement by members of the graduating classes of the public, private and parochial secondary schools in the DCMO and ONC BOCES supervisory areas. It also recognizes a mentor nominated by each student scholar for having a significant and beneficial influence on his/her education.

Student representatives are chosen on the basis of scholarship, as well as leadership and service to his or her school and community. Teachers can be from any grade level and any subject area, from kindergarten through twelfth grade.

The Scholar Recognition planning committee consists of representatives of business and educational institutions.  The celebration banquet is fully funded by the contributions of business and educational partners who share the vision of encouraging young people to build their lives in our community.  Retaining our bright minds and future leaders is the vision for this program.