Walden savings bank announces winner of the 2026 david t. cocks memorial scholarship
October 05, 2026
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Walden Savings Bank has announced the recipient of the 2026 David T. Cocks Memorial Scholarship. The $2,500 scholarship has been awarded to Owen Sliwinski, a recent graduate of Washingtonville High School.
The scholarship fund, established at the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan & Rockland, honors the legacy of former Walden Savings Bank President David T. Cocks, who passed away in 2011. Cocks was a man of great character, devoted to family and a friend to many. Through his leadership at the Bank and extensive volunteer service, he is remembered for helping others and making his community a better place to live.
The memorial award recognizes a local student who exemplifies Cocks’ legacy of character, leadership, and dedicated service to the community.
Sliwinski, who maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school, distinguished himself through exceptional academic performance, extensive volunteer work, and proven leadership skills.
Among his accomplishments, Sliwinski achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after leading an ecological restoration project in Black Rock Forest. His project focused on soil stabilization and erosion prevention through the removal of invasive species and planting of native tree species.
During his senior year, Sliwinski was named a Scholar-Athlete by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. He served as team captain of his varsity swimming and diving team.
An active volunteer in his community, Sliwinski provided care for dogs at the Hudson Valley SPCA and tutored classmates who were struggling with math.
"David T. Cocks lived his life in service to others, both as a leader at Walden Savings Bank and as a dedicated community volunteer," said Walden Savings Bank President and CEO Derrik R. Wynkoop. "Owen's impressive work in environmental stewardship, his leadership in athletics and his commitment to local service mirror the values David held dear. We are proud to support Owen as he pursues his future goals."
