2019 Scholarship Recipient

Oliver Foss, a 2019 Seacoast School of Technology graduate, was presented with the Ruth Dubenitz Memorial Scholarship on May 30th. This $2000 scholarship was established in 2018 to honor Ruth’s enduring devotion to gardening and the environment. Ruth joined the EAGC in 2005 and was an active member until her death at the age 99.

During her long gardening career, Ruth dedicated herself to her own gardens, founded a garden club, and contributed her expertise to garden clubs wherever she lived. According to her daughter, Jan Cowan, who attended the presentation, Ruth would be thrilled to know a scholarship in her name is being awarded to a young person pursuing a career in horticulture.

Oliver became interested in nature, marine biology, and the environment at a young age. Over the years, he received certification as a boater, scuba diver, hunter, and bow hunter.  He is also a licensed wildlife handler. He competed in dairy sciences, environmental and other educational events.  

Oliver’s goals are to become a fish and game warden, do more volunteering with wildlife, hike the tallest mountains in NH, and go to college to gain knowledge and skills in the hydroponics and horticultural industries.

Along with the scholarship, he was presented with the book Silent Spring and Other Writings on the Environment by Rachael Carson, which inspired Ruth to become an environmentalist.

We wish Oliver Foss all the best as he continues his education at SUNY Cobleskill.