ALBANY, NY (WRGB) — According to Excelsior University, more than $10,000 has already been raised for a memorial scholarship fund honoring the life of student and National Guardsman Casey Frankoski.

The Casey Frankoski ’24 Ever Upward Scholarship, established by Excelsior University, is designed to assist active military members or veterans in achieving their educational goals in memory of a local National Guard member and Excelsior student, according to the Excelsior press release.

Casey Frankoski, 28, passed away in the line of duty on March 8, 2024. She was in her final year at Excelsior University completing her Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management and received a posthumous degree as a member of the Class of 2024.

Casey Frankoski was a shining example of an Excelsior student story: while heroically serving her country, she used flexible online programs to grow personally and professionally.

wrote David Schejbal, President of Excelsior University, in the press release.

According to the press release, Frankoski’s family has close ties to the Excelsior community: her father is a former faculty member and her aunt was a former part-time nursing instructor.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Families of fallen soldiers hold memorial fundraiser

A native of the Capital Region, Frankoski joined the National Guard in 2016. She was stationed in Kuwait from 2018 to 2019 and completed Chief Warrant Officer School and Flight School upon returning home.

While serving in the National Guard, Frankoski received numerous honors, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Service Medal, Basic Aviator Badge, and Basic Aviation Badge.

Although Casey’s story ended tragically, we are proud to continue her legacy for the next generation of military students through the Casey Frankoski ’24 Ever Upward Scholarship.

Schejbal wrote.

According to the press release, applications for the scholarship can be submitted until September 1st.