Vinny Perry Tourney Honors Memory of First Scholarship Recipient

Twenty-three years ago Bayport-Blue Point High School senior Jeannine David was the first recipient of the Vinny Perry Scholarship award. 

The accomplished student athlete was honored in 1990 not only for her sports achievements as a three-season player (field hockey, basketball and softball) but for her off-the-field community service helping with the Special Olympics and serving on the student government council as class secretary and vice president.

The scholarship award, now called the Vinny Perry Mike Marchan Award, provides three $2,000 scholarships to B-BP seniors and is funded by an annual golf tournament held. 

In a fitting tribute, this year’s outing will honor the memory of David who passed away last August after a valiant six-year battle against cancer.

David used her scholarship to attend the University of Rhode Island where she earned a B.S. in marketing and finance. She then launched a successful career in advertising and was recognized industry wide in the out-of-home market. 

While she settled to live in New York City, her ties to Bayport-Blue Point remained steadfast, as a respected member of the community, and a loyal and trusted friend to many.  Everyone who knew Jeannine will remember her smile and her outgoing, witty personality, according to family members.  "She enjoyed life and had a great spirit," they shared in an email to Patch.

In 2006 David was diagnosed with Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumors, and as her family relates, the cancer did not stop David from living life to the fullest.  She continued to play in the Vinny Perry tournament year after year and was so proud to be the first recipient of the Vinny Perry award. 

“She was a great daughter, sister and friend and will never be forgotten,” her family stated.                                        

This year’s golf tournament will be held Monday, August 5 at the Rock Hill Country Club in Manorville. There is still an opportunity to sponsor the event and/or participate as a player. Those interested can call 516-903-2910/917-337-6117 or visit the committee’s website.

The David family said they are very thankful to the scholarship board for honoring David this year and “keeping her spirit alive in the community.”