At the Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony, four Fredonia students were recognized as the recipients of the Ricky Burgstrom Music and Bowling Scholarships. The four students receiving recognition were Gracia Domenico, Jackson Gollnitz, Allison Helwig, and Sydnee Hoffman.

For the past five years, Fredonia students have been awarded with scholarships in honor of Ricky Burgstrom, a Fredonia graduate who died at the age of 22 in an automobile accident in November 2021. Ricky was an accomplished bowler at Fredonia with a love for music, so in his memory, a scholarship fund was established through the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation to celebrate Fredonia students with similar passions. Applicants write an essay explaining how they demonstrate qualities such as being modest, uplifting, friendly, and welcoming in nature, just as Ricky was.

All four recipients this year were accomplished musicians during their time at Fredonia, participating at the countywide showcase on several occasions. Additionally, Domenico and Hoffman participated in Unified Bowling for multiple seasons.

Domenico starred in the orchestra while participating in six years of vocal competition, as well as playing the cello and taking on several roles in middle and high school musicals. Through her music accomplishments and her time with the Unified Bowling program, Domenico became more sure of herself and the things she cares deeply about.

“I have grown in my own confidence, empathy, and a deeper understanding of how important encouragement and teamwork are in a community. I have grown to care so much about everything I do, and to cherish the time that I have, because it does not last forever,” Domenico said.

Gollnitz participated in the school band for eight years and was Band President. His instrument of choice is the trombone. He also participated in the Jazz Band for seven years, chorus for eight years, and participated in an international summer band trip that toured several countries in Europe. He also was a co-leader of the school’s Quest Expedition.

Helwig participated in band for eight years, Jazz Band for seven years, and spent two years in the orchestra pit. Her instrument of choice is the saxophone, and she was a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. She also participated in nine additional clubs and sports.

Hoffman was President of the Unified Sports Club at Fredonia. She was also an accomplished athlete at Fredonia, especially as a golfer. She participated in band for four years, playing the flute.

“All four of these students are a great reflection of the quality of this graduating class,” said Rick Burgstrom, Ricky’s father, as he presented the students with their awards just before they graduated.

Burgstrom added, “I look forward to the future, confident that their expectations and expanded vision of community will enhance the Village of Fredonia and get us through these rough times as a unified community for the future.”