On May 20, 2025, Oneonta High School senior Tanner Tubia was awarded the distinguished Ricky J. Parisian Memorial Scholarship during a heartfelt ceremony in the school library. Surrounded by family, faculty, law enforcement, and members of the Parisian Foundation, Tanner was recognized not only for his academic excellence, but also for the strength of his character and commitment to serving others.
The scholarship is awarded each year in memory of Ricky J. Parisian, an Oneonta High School alumnus and New York State Police Investigator who gave his life on May 20, 1994, while courageously intervening in an armed robbery. Though off duty at the time, Parisian acted without hesitation to protect those around him—a reflection of the deep sense of duty, integrity, and compassion that defined his life. The scholarship, created in his honor, is now in its 30th year of recognizing students who embody those same values.
This year’s recipient, Tanner Tubia, was selected through a thoughtful nomination and vetting process involving OHS faculty and the Ricky J. Parisian Memorial Scholarship Foundation Board. Known for his quiet leadership, Tanner leads not by volume, but by example—showing up, doing the right thing, and encouraging those around him. A National Honor Society member, Tanner excelled in college-level psychology and has been recognized by teachers and coaches alike for his reliability, humility, and drive.
Outside the classroom, Tanner is a dedicated student-athlete, participating in both football and baseball. He has committed to attending West Virginia University in the fall, where he will pursue a degree in forensic science—a field that, fittingly, reflects the ideals of justice and service at the core of this scholarship’s mission.
The ceremony was attended by several members of the Parisian family, including Deb Parisian, Ricky’s wife; members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors; Superintendent Thomas Brindley; Principal Kevin Stevens; members of the OHS nomination committee; and five troopers from the New York State Police. Remarks were offered by Foundation President Ben Wendrow, Dr. David Brower of the Board of Directors, and Principal Stevens, who also hosted a thoughtful reception for this great honor.
As Tanner accepted the award, he joined a long line of recipients who continue to carry Ricky Parisian’s legacy forward in their lives and careers. The entire Oneonta City School District congratulates Tanner Tubia on this well-deserved honor and wishes him the very best in the bright future ahead.
