James C. Waite Memorial Scholarship Honors Dedicated Students in Sachem Schools

Ten students were recently honored with the James C. Waite Memorial Scholarship; recognizing their workmanship, dedication and ability to strive in the workforce.

Each year Dove Electronic Components, Inc., owned by Irma, 73, and the late James C. Waite from Smithtown and son Matthew Waite, 46, from Mt. Siani, take in a handful of Sachem students from High Schools East and North with mental disabilities through the Transition Program. The students, chosen by the school,  "work" for two hours a day once a week to learn office skills and get them used to the workspace.

Their tasks include keeping a time card, bulk mailing, warehouse duties, sorting and counting parts and putting together a large marketing binder to be sent out to clients.

 "[James] got used to the special kids coming, he would hear them having a good time and it really made a big impact," said Irma on her husband's view of the program.

Irma first thought of handing out scholarships after the passing of James in 2007 because of the dedication of the students and enthusiasm from the parents.  The James C. Waite Memorial Scholarship officially came to fruition in 2008 to help the students with their future endeavors in college.

In addition to learning office skills and adapting to the workplace environment, the students gain confidence and a sense of independence and importance. Some students return year after year.

 "We tend to complain about our problems, while these special students are facing real challenges with a positive outlook." said Irma Waite.

The recipients of the James C. Waite Memorial Scholarship include: Andrew Ripple, Lisa De Bello, Kevin O'Reilly, Ashley Steele, Joseph Maher, John Cecere, John Cole, Ashley Cummins, Kathryn Tarbox, and Brian Tellarico.

Dove Electronics Components Inc. is located at 39 Research Way in East Setauket. For more information call 631-6897733, or e-mail iwaite@doveonline.com.