Sandra Rudman Shilansky Memorial Scholarship

The Sandra Rudman Shilansky Memorial Scholarship was established in 2026 by Sandra’s husband, Byron Shilansky, and their sons, Mark Shilansky (MVHS ’88) and Neil Shilansky (MVHS ’90).

Scholarship Award

The inaugural scholarship will be awarded in April 2027 in the amount of $5,000. It will support one graduating senior attending Merrimack Valley High School as they continue to a degree-granting program at an institution of higher education.

Eligibility

The recipient will participate with distinction in the MVHS music program. This may include excellence in Chorus, Band, Jazz Band, or school musicals; performances in school talent shows or assemblies; or participation in local arts venues.

The selected student should also demonstrate collegiality as a supportive member of the music community and maintain consistent academic progress and effort.

Use of the Scholarship

The scholarship will be used to support attendance at a degree-granting institution of higher education. The recipient must either study music as a major, minor, or concentration, or continue music study privately through the school or through participation in the institution’s performing ensembles.

Selection Process

Current Merrimack Valley High School music faculty will select the recipient and submit a ranked list of qualified candidates in the event the first choice is unable to use the award. If a vote is tied or another issue arises in selecting a recipient, the Shilansky family will be consulted for input.

In Memory of Sandra

Sandra Shilansky was an ardent music fan and, together with her husband Byron, a tireless supporter of her sons’ musical activities and career paths. Her father, Abraham “Al” Rudman, was a professional woodwind player who performed with the Boston Pops and artists including Louis Armstrong and Tony Bennett while supporting his family.

Although family finances prevented Sandra from pursuing education beyond public school, she was a lifelong self-directed learner and a supporter of the arts. The Shilansky family hopes this scholarship will enable, or ease the burden of, higher education for a promising student.