Marist Founds Scholarship to Honor Kerry Fitzsimons

Marist College has established a scholarship fund in memory of Kerry Fitzsimons, the 21-year-old student who in January.

The Commack native was that tore through a student-rented house near Marist College. Additional scholarships have been set up in honor of Eva Block and Kevin P. Johnson, both from Connecticut, who also died in the fire, according to a letter by Marist President Dennis Murray posted to the school's website Thursday.

"It is a testament to the strength and character of these families that in the aftermath of such profound loss, their thoughts have turned to remembering their loved ones in ways that would benefit future Marist students," Murray said in the statement.

According to the letter, several family members and friend have contributed to the scholarship funds in memory of Fitzsimons, Block and Johnson. The College's Board of Trustees has also donated $25,000 to each of the three funds, Murray wrote.

Details regarding the criteria for awarding the scholarship are still being finalized, according to Murray.

The cause of the house fire, which five people survived, is still under investigation, the Hartford Courant reports.

Those looking to send contributions to the scholarships can mail funds to:   Marist College Office of College Advancement, 3399 North Road Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12601.

Gifts also may be made online at https://www.marist.edu/alumni/giving.html