PHOTO PROVIDED Ava Gorg, left, a member of the Hughesville High School Class of 2026 receives the 2026 Paternostro Cancer Foundation Memorial Scholarship award from Krista Paternostro Bower, right, chairman and founder of the Paternostro Cancer Foundation.

The Paternastro Cancer Foundation presented their Memorial Scholarship to Ava Gorg during a visit to the East Lycoming School District on May 27, 2026, the organization announced in a press release.

Gorg, a member of the Hughesville High School Class of 2026, received a $1,000 cash award.

“We were very impressed with the quality and accomplishments of all of the applicants but felt that Ava best represented the essence of this award,” said Krista Paternostro Bower, chairman and founder of the Paternostro Cancer Foundation, according to the press release.

“This memorial award provides a meaningful way to continue the legacy of our dad and Kass by helping graduates pursue their own passions,” she said in the release.

Gorg will major in molecular engineering at the University of Chicago in the fall.

“I am fascinated by the intersection of science and engineering and how innovation in these fields can solve complex problems,” Gorg said of her decision to take up the major, according to the release.

“I hope to contribute to the development of new technologies and treatments that can improve lives and offer hope to families,” she added.

During her time at Hughesville High School, Gorg has been actively involved in both school and community, including volunteering with the Youth Development Task Force and National Honor Society, FBLA, Community Service Club, Spirit Club, Ski Club, SADD, Scholastic Scrimmage, as a class officer, as well as providing SAT tutoring through Schoolhouse.world, the release said.

She was a dedicated student-athlete, participating in softball, volleyball and track and field.

Through her actions, Gorg demonstrated “strong leadership, school spirit, and a continued commitment to serving both her peers and the wider community,” the organization said in their release.

“We wish Ava continued success wherever life leads her. We are confident she will continue to make meaningful contributions and excel in whatever endeavors she chooses,” remarked Bower in the press release.

Since 2013, the Paternostro Family Foundation, as the Paternostro Cancer Foundation, has awarded scholarships to 24 graduates of Hughesville High School totaling $15,100.00 in scholarship awards, it was noted by the organization.

To learn more about the memorial scholarship program and the Paternostro Cancer Foundation, please visit their website at www.paternostrocancerfoundation.org.