6th Annual ICA Scholarship

The 2025 ICA Scholarship

Sponsored by the Insulation Contractors Association of New York

510 Broadhollow Road, Suite 305A

Melville, NY 11747

Investing in the Future: Meet ICA’s 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Each year, the Insulation Contractors Association of New York (ICA) proudly awards three $5,000 scholarships to children and grandchildren of ICA or Local 12 members. Now in its sixth year, the ICA Scholarship Program has awarded 24 scholarships totaling $75,000—an ongoing investment in the next generation of leaders, workers, and changemakers.

Scholarships may be used at any accredited college or trade school, and this year’s recipients represent a wide range of interests and talents.

We’re proud to introduce our 2025 ICA Scholarship Winners:
Justin Zizza (University of South Carolina)
Daniel DeBetta (Endicott College)
Ryan Rivera (Farmingdale State College)

A Future in Finance: Justin Zizza

Justin Zizza, a 2025 graduate of Saint Anthony’s High School, is entering the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina as a freshman this fall.

Described by his school counselor as having a “relentless pursuit of excellence,” and an ambition to “build something new that will change the world.” Justin brings both ambition and compassion to every space he’s a part of.

This dedication to excellence shines through in the spaces Justin invests in. “Whether leading on the executive board of the Future Business Leaders Club or serving as a volunteer in youth ministry, Justin’s leadership and dedication shine through. He embodies balance of intellect and empathy, qualities that make him a natural leader and a compassionate team player,” shared School Counselor Logan Steffens.

Jessica Otto, Justin’s supervisor, echoed that sentiment: “Justin is trustworthy, reliable, and has a great spirit. His positive attitude made him a true asset to our programs.”

Justin’s leadership includes roles as a Homeroom and Sports Ambassador for the Saint Anthony’s Leadership Team, Eucharistic Minister, Peer Tutor, and Youth Minister at his parish. A two-sport varsity athlete in football and baseball, he also earned All-Academic Team honors in both.

With a strong foundation in leadership, service, and academic success, Justin is excited to pursue a career in finance and corporate leadership.

Fueled by Legacy: Daniel DeBetta

A 2025 graduate of Babylon High School with a 4.0 GPA, Daniel DeBetta is heading to Endicott College to major in Finance and minor in Spanish. Daniel is not only an accomplished student but also an award-winning athlete in lacrosse and football and a talented musician in the Symphonic Winds Band, where he plays trumpet—a skill he’s honed since fourth grade.

Daniel’s “Never Give Up” attitude has carried him through high school and through sports. His deep drive comes from a powerful family legacy. His grandfather, Robert Jelardi, was a proud Local 12 Union member for over 40 years and the founder of RFJ Insulation Contractor, Inc.

“My grandfather and I were very close and I always admired his work ethic and his communication skills with colleagues,” Daniel shared. “He told me about so many people that he met and special relationships and friendships that he formed with fellow Union members.”

This legacy was passed down to Daniel’s father who joined his grandfather’s company after a career shift from Wall Street. For years, his dad lacked passion for his work until he joined the Union. After joining the Union, Daniel and his family saw a notable shift in their father. The shift came because he wasn’t just putting in hard work for himself, but for the union as a whole.

“Seeing how committed my dad is to his job and the union as a whole motivated me to put full effort into anything I do and show the same type of character my dad presents,” Daniel said.

Daniel emulates his family legacy. His school counselor shared, “Daniel is a person of exceptional character. He is disciplined, kind, and incredibly caring.”

His teachers confirm his character and drive. “Failure is never an option for Dan, and he will always go the extra mile and do what needs to be done to accomplish the goals he sets for himself,” said Dan’s High School Math Teacher.

Making a Difference: Ryan Rivera

A 2025 graduate of Hauppauge High School and National Honor Society member, Ryan Rivera will attend Farmingdale State College this fall to pursue a career in nursing.

Ryan’s inspiration came from his work as a lifeguard. Learning CPR sparked a deeper calling. “Being present in someone’s most vulnerable moment takes more than training,” Ryan shared. “It takes compassion, calm under pressure, and a willingness to take responsibility for another person’s well-being.”

Ryan’s desire is plain and simple; to make a difference in people’s lives.

Ryan is the kind of person who leaves an impact on every one he meets. His Math teacher shared that Ryan used to come to his classroom in the mornings his bus arrived early and hang out before his first period class.

“I truly enjoyed spending that extra time with him and getting to know him well. He is easy to talk to, and possesses a good head on his shoulders. Ryan travels with a great group of friends and demonstrates high standards and strong morals. He is an excellent example of the young man we hope every student can be – compassionate, dedicated, and genuinely good-natured,” said Erin Maer, Math Teacher.

English teacher Dawn Lynch added, “He approaches every task with enthusiasm and a strong work ethic, providing to be a reliable team player and a source of motivation for others.”

Be a Future Recipient

Each spring, the ICA of New York opens applications for its annual scholarship program. If you or a family member is interested in applying, be the first to know when applications open by signing up for our email updates.