2026 Andrew Pingie Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Port Allegany Senior Brayden Babcock

We are happy to share that the 2026 Andrew Pingie Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Brayden Babcock, a Port Allegany senior who is attending Alfred State College to pursue welding!

The Andrew Pingie Memorial Scholarship fund was established by Andy’s two daughters, Sarah and Faith, following his passing on December 1, 2021 from glioblastoma brain cancer at age 47. After graduating from Bradford High School in 1992, Andy was employed with Allegheny Bradford Forest Products and ended his career working at Dresser Manufacturing as a welder in Bradford. He was also a self-taught fabricator of wrought iron and many of his creations and designs are admired at many home and businesses within the area.

This scholarship is awarded to a deserving student or adult learner that resides in either Cattaraugus or McKean County who shares the same passions and values as Andy and who plans to pursue a degree or certification in a post-secondary technical field. This is our third year giving a scholarship, which wouldn’t be possible without the generous donations and support from those who knew and loved him.

When reviewing Brayden’s application, we couldn’t help but think of our dad and couldn’t think of a more deserving student for this scholarship. We were truly impressed with his accomplishments, goals and his values.

Congratulations, Brayden! We wish you the best as you step into this next chapter!