Scott McAndrews Outward Bound Scholarship: Past, Present and Future 

By Cole Costantino 

Scott McAndrews was an adventurous, brave, and kind soul. For 10 years, he taught at Pacific Crest Outward Bound School and often told his students, “It’s okay to stumble as long as you stumble forward.” He loved to give his time to help others. In 2006, he passed away in a tragic accident on Mammoth Mountain. Scott’s story may be over, but his legacy lives on through his sister and our Niskayuna community.

“We decided on Outward Bound as a scholarship because it had transformed his life,” said Donna McAndrews, Niskayuna librarian of 10 years. The McAndrews started the scholarship in Scott’s honor in 2009, and it has been running ever since. “Initially, we started a scholarship through Outward Bound, which we still do. We still run a scholarship through Outward Bound, granting students from California a chance to do an Outward Bound course. Then we decided we would have one here, too. Allowing students from Niskayuna to have this opportunity as well.” 

The Scott McAndrews Outward Bound Scholarship seeks to continue Scott’s work. Scott’s experience with Outward Bound changed his life. After completing a 78-day-long course in California, he realized he wanted to be a part of Outward Bound more permanently. The experience opened his eyes and helped him find his way; the scholarship aims to do the same.

The scholarship grants 1000 dollars towards the tuition and covers the 500-dollar registration fee. The Scott McAndrews scholarship doesn’t cover the entire cost of a course, but it contributes greatly. If a recipient is embarking on a Western Outward Bound, like California, Oregon, or Washington State, the scholarship grant adjusts accordingly, adding another 300 dollars to the initial 1000 off of the overhead cost.

Each recipient has a story to tell, one not always possible without the scholarship. Laurel Hamilton, a scholarship recipient, was able to go on a sailing trip, something that connects her to her grandfather. “I've always been obsessed with sailing and the ocean, and I thought, oh, this is perfect. Not only do I get a new and challenging experience, but I also can learn something that's a really good skill to have and connect with my grandpa,” Hamilton said. And she’s not the only one. 

Madeline Hanna, another recent recipient of this scholarship, went to Joshua Tree National Park. In the process, she learned self-sufficiency and discovered a newfound sense of confidence. Hanna recounts her experience, saying, “We played games, we camped under the stars. We backpacked for the last few days, and the first two days we climbed.”

Regan Anderson also received the Scott McAndrews Outward Bound scholarship; with the grant, Anderson went backpacking in the North Cascades. “The scholarship made it possible for me to have an experience that honestly changed my life. Even two years later, I still talk to the people that I was on the course with, use the lessons I learned about outdoorsmanship and life overall, and generally just think about how much fun it was.” 

  The Scott McAndrews Outward Bound Scholarship stands as a heartfelt tribute to Scott’s lasting legacy of bravery, compassion, and dedication to uplifting others. His faith in the life-changing potential of outdoor education continues through the students whose lives and futures have been forever changed by this scholarship. From strengthening family ties to gaining self-assurance and forging lasting friendships, the scholarship empowers young people in ways that extend well beyond traditional learning. As we honor Scott’s memory, we also embrace his adventurous and giving spirit, confident that his influence will keep inspiring generations to come within Niskayuna and far beyond.