A new, permanent endowed scholarship fund has been established at the Northern New York Community Foundation to honor the legacy of Massena native, Lorraine Power Tharp. Mrs. Tharp graduated as salutatorian in 1966 from Massena Central School. She was the daughter of former St. Lawrence County District Attorney, William H. Power Jr. and Oske S. Power.
A 35-year practicing lawyer, Mrs. Tharp began her career as an attorney in the 1970’s and went on to become the 105th president of the New York Bar Association in 2002, the third woman to lead the State Bar. She was also the first woman to serve as a commissioner on the New York State Racing Commission. Mrs. Tharp was also a member of the Third Judicial District Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission, part of the statewide network for screening judicial candidates. She also served on the New York State Continuing Legal Education Board.
Mrs. Tharp died in October 2008 at the age of 60. The scholarship was recently established by her husband, Russell C. Tharp Jr. to perpetuate her legacy in the Massena area. “We are honored to be part of the special way Lorraine will continue to be a force for positive good in her hometown by bringing out the best in others as they begin their educational journey to make our world a better place,” said Rande S. Richardson, Community Foundation executive director.
The scholarship will be awarded each year to graduating seniors at Massena Central School. Selections will be based on academic merit, and service to school and community. Other special needs or circumstances will also be considered. For more information about the scholarship, please contact the Northern New York Community Foundation at (315) 782-7110.