Cardinal O'Hara junior awarded musician scholarship

Cardinal O’Hara High School Press Release

Madilyn Mazzei, a junior at Cardinal O’Hara High School, has been awarded the Carol Ann Schulmeister Memorial Musician Scholarship through the WNY Drummers for Homeless People Inc. She was chosen for her strong interest in music and leadership.

The $500 scholarship is named in honor of Carol Ann Schulmeister, who died in 1964 when she was a senior at Bishop Gibbons High School in North Tonawanda. A gifted and talented pianist who played in a family classical music trio, she played solo piano at venues including many appearances at Kleinhans Music Hall.

Madilyn was selected for her strong leadership as president of the O’Hara student council. In addition, she is active as a member of the school’s select chorus, an All-County musician, as well as having lead roles in the school musicals. Part of the Good Samaritan club at O’Hara, she participates in every service project at the school. In addition, she helps her elderly neighbor who lives alone.

“I stop by and we chat and I’ll do her nails,” Madilyn said. “She is so pleased to have me come over.”

A church lector at the Maronite Church, she was a past member of the Maronite Youth Organization, a group that helps the homeless.

“I just ran out of time this year with all the O’Hara commitments, so I can’t be active,” Madilyn said.

In the summer, she helps her parents at the Moonlite Motel, which they own.

A high honor roll student, Madilyn is a member of the varsity volleyball team and a cheerleader. She has received the O’Hara Service Award as well as the Maronite Youth Organization award.

“I am still so excited about the scholarship; it really helps my family,” Madilyn said.

When she saw the photo the school took at the presentation of her scholarship, she laughed.

“It was pajama day, the last day of Spirit Week. None of us were dressed in uniform, including the principal,” Madilyn chuckled.

The award was presented by Will Schulmeister, brother of Carol Ann Schulmeister, who is president of the WNY Drummers for Homeless People; his wife, Debbie, vice president; and Shane Davis, a board member of the organization.

Madilyn is the daughter of Eddi and Marlena Mazzei of Niagara Falls.