The Otsego Pride Alliance is honored to announce the 2026 recipients of the Kota Flood Memorial Scholarship:
Alana Gorence – Oneonta Senior High School
Luna Rios – Oneonta Senior High School
Congratulations, Alana and Luna; we see you, we support you, and we celebrate you!
Otsego Pride Alliance proudly offers The Kota Flood Memorial Scholarship, aimed at supporting students in pursuing their educational dreams. Applicants should self-identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community, aged between 16 and 21, and be embarking on their first year of post-secondary education, whether in college, trade school, or a certificate program. Eligible candidates must be residents of one of the following NY counties; Otsego, Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, or Schoharie.
This scholarship honors the memory of our friend, Kota Flood. Kota was ridiculously funny, using his often dark and inappropriate humor, to overcome pain and bring joy to others. Rarely without his skateboard, Kota was fearless. Whether flipping, climbing trees, or executing crazy tricks, his bravery and determination were always clear. His love for family and friends, whom he fiercely protected and cherished, was matched only by his love for animals, especially kitties!
As an out and proud member of the queer community, Kota was more than just a friend; he was a warrior. He had no tolerance for injustice or bigotry—fearlessly confronting prejudice, homophobia, and transphobia—inspiring all who knew him, making them feel safe and supported. Though we miss him every day, Kota's legacy of love, courage, and laughter lives on in our hearts and remains a beacon of inspiration, urging us to stand up, speak out, and embrace life with the same fearlessness and passion that he so brilliantly exemplified.
Winners of this scholarship will be selected based on how strongly they align with Kota's boldness, bravery, and dedication to supporting family, friends and the queer community. Just as Kota lived his life with a fearless passion for justice and equality, we seek applicants who embody that same energy and commitment to making the world a better place.
Charlie Rae Mitchell Foster -2024
Hootie Van Kingsley-2024
Isaac Alexander Wooden-2024
Sage Utter-2025
Lauren Huber-2025
Dez Robinson-2025
