The Van Buskirk Memorial Prize Committee has announced the first of its annual awards to young students in the creative and performing arts.

Recipients are two recent high school graduates: Joel Terry from Union Springs Central School and Emily Aguilar from Southern Cayuga Central School.

Joel Terry won the 2008 prize for the Creative Arts for his fine arts mixed media portfolio. Emily Aguilar was awarded the 2008 prize for the Performing Arts. She won based on the video submission of her performance in the Southern Cayuga production of “Grease.”

Each student was awarded $200 in prize money.

This was the first year awards were granted in honor of the late Velma Van Buskirk, a long-time resident of Aurora. Velma Van Buskirk was an actress, author and artist who encouraged the education of aspiring artists.

The memorial prize was created to recognize students who display talent and passion for the creative and performing arts.

The Van Buskirk Memorial Prize, administered by Peachtown Elementary School, will be offered annually.

Eligible candidates must be between 10 and 18 years of age and reside in the following districts: Union Springs, Moravia, Auburn, Southern Cayuga and Lansing.

For more information, contact Barbara Post at 364-8721.