Olivia Ashley

A student from Potsdam enrolled at the SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music is the recipient of the Northern New York Community Foundation JP North Country Music Scholarship.

Olivia Ashley graduated in June from Potsdam High School and recently began her freshman year at SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music where she studies music education. She aspires to become a music teacher. Olivia is the daughter of Kristen and Shaun Ashley, Potsdam.

Ashley was awarded a one-year, $750 scholarship. She was joined by Emery F. Monnat and Madison E. Williams, from Carthage, and Joshua P. Weiler from Lowville.

An acclaimed music educator and percussionist, Professor Emeritus Petercsak touched the lives of countless students throughout a career of more than 50 years as a professor at the Crane School of Music. He joined the faculty in 1968 and served as head of percussion until his retirement in 2023.

The JP North Country Music Scholarship extends his life’s work in many facets of music as a performer- teacher, conductor, clinician, consultant, and as a music industry personality and visionary. The scholarship also ensures that his spirit of innovation, generosity, and dedication to music performance-teaching will continue to inspire young musicians for generations to come.

Established at the Community Foundation in 2025, the scholarship supports students from Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties who are pursuing studies in music. Preference is given to students seeking a degree in music performance or who plan to attend the Crane School of Music.