Are you heading back to school for the Fall 2026 Semester? Be sure to apply for our Suffolk AME Member Scholarships! Starting on September 1, 2026, give us a call at Suffolk AME HQ at (631) 589-8400 or reach out via email to info@scame.org to get your application. 

All applications and a paid Bursar’s receipt must be returned to AME Headquarters at 30 Orville Drive, Suite A, Bohemia, no later than September 30, 2026.

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Scholarships Available Include: 

➤ Suffolk AME Member Lottery Scholarship: Winners will be selected by lottery and awarded in November. Click here for the flyer. 

➤ 2026 Charles Novo Jr. Essay Scholarship: The Charles Novo Jr. Scholarship was established by Suffolk AME in 2007 to honor the memory of Charlie Novo Jr. and support our members in advancing their education. Charlie Novo was elected as our first AME President in 1985 and proudly served until 1991. Click here for the flyer. 

►Essay Topic: The Role of Political Action at the Union Level

Explore how labor unions participate in politics and public policy. Discuss tactics such as candidate endorsements, lobbying efforts, voter registration drives, and grassroots mobilization. 

Analyze why political involvement is crucial for unions, especially in protecting labor laws, securing funding for public services, and advocating for policies that benefit all workers. Provide examples of successful union political campaigns and reflect on the challenges unions face in the current political climate.

➤ 2026 Debbie Heitleband Essay Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded in memory of Ms. Debbie Heitleband, a devoted AME member for 28 years and former President of the Finance & Technology Unit. Established in 2013 to honor her service, Debbie exemplified dedication as an AME Officer, member, and supporter. She served with distinction as a Principal Contracts Examiner in the Finance & Technology Unit and was known for her willingness to volunteer at a moment’s notice. For over 24 years, Debbie actively contributed vital insights at Board of Directors meetings and conventions, leaving a lasting impact on the organization. Click here for the flyer. 

►Essay Topic: Disarming the Threat, Countering the Privatization of Public Jobs

Privatization, transferring public services and jobs to private companies, poses significant challenges to municipal workers and their unions. In your essay, explore how privatization affects municipal jobs, including impacts on job security, wages, benefits, and service quality. 

Analyze the strategies municipal labor unions could use to resist or counter privatization efforts. Consider tactics such as public advocacy, political lobbying, coalition-building with community groups, legal action, and organizing campaigns. You may provide real-life examples in your argument.

➤ 2026 Dorie Rossiter Essay Scholarship: Established in 2009, this scholarship honors the memory of Dorie Rossiter, a cherished charter member of our Union. In 1984, Dorie joined Charles Novo Jr. in the successful decertification effort that led to our union’s formation. A dedicated volunteer and committee member, she regularly attended AME conventions. After retiring in 1999 from 31 years as a Suffolk County Crossing Guard, Dorie continued her commitment as President of the Retirees Unit until her passing in 2007. She is fondly remembered as one of AME’s most loyal friends. Click here for the flyer.  

►Essay Topic: A Woman’s Place is in Her Union, Women in Labor History

Choose a notable woman labor leader or labor figure from history and explore her work and impact on the labor movement.

Analyze how she contributed to advancing the rights of workers and influenced the labor movement. Use specific examples from her activism, campaigns, or leadership roles to illustrate her legacy.

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To arrange receipt of an application, please call (631) 589-8400, reach out via email to info@scame.org, or stop by AME Headquarters to pick one up, starting on September 1st.

All applications and a paid Bursar’s receipt must be returned to Suffolk AME HQ at 30 Orville Drive, Suite A, Bohemia, NY 11716, no later than September 30, 2026.