Barbie Ludden Scholarship

ACAF • March 4, 2021

(March 2021) The Cuba Central School Class of 1981 has created a scholarship with the Allegany County Area Foundation to honor friend and classmate Barbie Ludden, who tragically lost her life in August 2020, a victim of domestic violence.  This scholarship will be available to a senior graduating from Cuba -Rushford Central School who will be pursuing a career in a medical field.

Barbie was a classmate that was loved by all; she was kind, caring, and exemplified the type of person we should all strive to be. She was adored by her family and friends who she loved fiercely. Her daughter, Cristy Botens, was quoted as saying, “I would not be the person I am today without my mom’s unconditional love, her care, and her unending compassion and support.”

Barbie was a certified pharmacy technician and worked for the Seneca Nation Health System.  Throughout her career, she developed lasting friendships with her co-worker and she always made it a point to go above and beyond for her patients.

Barbie was an active member of the Cuba AmVets Post #1.  She volunteered for many fundraising events throughout the year, giving her time, energy, and infectious smile. Barbie will be remembered for how she dedicated her life to helping others.

The recipient of this scholarship should embrace the values that drove Barbie in her life – a desire to make the world a better place, integrity, and above all, kindness.  Barbie, along with her beloved father Charles, emphasized the importance of education, as they were unable to pursue it for themselves.  This scholarship will be used to help a student with demonstrated financial need reach their full potential through education.

The scholarship was first awarded in the Spring of 2021.

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