The Carpatho-Rusyn Society Board of Directors announces the 2024 Anna Donson Memorial Scholarship recipients.

Published: September 4, 2024

Patty Boris is a lifelong resident of the Twin Cities, born in Minneapolis and hopping around the metro as life changes occur. The descendant of Carpatho-Rusyn immigrants from the villages Becherov, Komlosa and Charne, Patty grew up knowing very little about this heritage and recently sought to change this once genealogical records became more accessible to the public. Other interests include science, history, animals, and cheese. Loving rabbit parent to two Flemish Giants who are hilarious handfuls. Currently majoring in Environmental Science.

Marina Conjelko is the daughter of Fr. Matthew and Pani Mary-Margaret Conjelko of Indiana, Pennsylvania. She attends Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of North America where she is active in youth activities. Some of her favorite things about her Carpatho-Rusyn heritage are the traditions, food, and ethnic dancing that bring so much joy to herself, her family, and her friends. As an active member of the community, Marina strives to work to better the lives around her. Some of her service includes having served as a member of Key Club Executive Board, Key Club Secretary, the Ambassadors program at her school which aims at welcoming new students to the area, Green Bandana Project Chair a mental health initiative, Leadership Seminar, senior class representative, took part in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and more. In addition, she has helped tutor students, she took part in the girls’ varsity soccer team at her school, the dance team, and dancing at Sue Hewitt Dance Studio. Marina also enjoys the outdoors by hiking, fishing, and swimming with her friends. This fall, Marina will attend Slippery Rock University to major in Exercise Science on the pre-physical therapy track. Having been given the opportunity to grow and learn in both her academics and as a person, Marina looks forward to being able spread the joy of which the Rusyn people have shown her. Marina also looks forward to continuing to grow in her faith, gaining more knowledge and life experiences, as well as learn more about her Carpatho-Rusyn heritage.

Congratulations to both of our Anna Donson Memorial Scholarship recipients!