Marlon Clarke, a member of Valley Stream Central High School’s Class of 2025, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship from Gershow Recycling. The scholarship is a one-time award given to a high school senior who plans to pursue a degree in engineering or environmental science.
“Gershow Recycling is pleased to present scholarships to these worthy students who intend to pursue degrees in either engineering or environmental science in college,” Kevin Gershowitz, President of Gershow Recycling, said. “We are proud to produce the next generation of workers who will help build a more sustainable tomorrow for all of us.”
Clarke will be continuing his Studies at the Ivy League, Cornell University, in Ithaca, beginning the fall semester.
The award was presented by Peter O’Donovan, manager at Gershow Recycling, as part of the company’s annual effort to support students who are preparing for careers in fields related to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Gershow, a leading recycling company with a long-standing presence on Long Island, offers the scholarship on a competitive basis to students across the region.
“Marlon Clarke exemplifies excellence, determination, and integrity,” Clarke’s high school guidance counselor, Samantha Cipriano-Seaman, said. “Whether in the classroom or the community, he always goes the extra mile and approaches everything he does with passion and purpose. His admission to Cornell is a testament not only to his academic brilliance, but to the heart and drive that make him truly exceptional.”
In addition to Clarke, a second scholarship was awarded this year to Earfon Teymourian-Rad, a 2025 graduate of Herricks High School in New Hyde Park.
Gershow Recycling operates nine locations, including a facility in Valley Stream, as well as sites in Brooklyn, New Hyde Park, Freeport, Lindenhurst, Huntington Station, Bay Shore, Medford and Riverhead. The company has been a part of the recycling industry since 1964 and plays a key role in helping reduce the volume of waste that would otherwise go into local landfills.
The company recycles a variety of materials, including aluminum, brass, copper, steel, cast iron, appliances and vehicles, producing both ferrous and non-ferrous scrap products. In addition to its environmental mission, Gershow supports education and job creation throughout the region. It currently provides over 750 jobs and contributes millions to the local economy.
The scholarship awarded to Clarke reflects Gershow’s continued investment in the communities it serves and its interest in fostering the next generation of engineers and environmental professionals. More information about Gershow Recycling and its programs can be found at gershow.com.
