The Village of Colonie Board of Trustees will soon dedicate a memorial fountain and monument in memory of Sheila Allen, a beloved Colonie Central High School senior who tragically lost her life in October 1970. The dedication ceremony is set for Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m. on the front lawn of the Colonie Village Hall at 2 Thunder Road, Colonie, NY 12205.

Sheila Allen was just 16 years old when she was abducted and murdered while coming home from the Colonie Town Library after a study session. Her tragic death shook the Colonie community, but her memory continues to live on in the hearts of many. Allen's life was full of promise, and her loss serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of community.

In the years following her passing, a water memorial was erected at St. Michael’s Church, where Allen was a communicant. Unfortunately, over time, the site fell into disrepair. Now, through the efforts of the Village of Colonie Board and a dedicated committee, a new memorial will be created to preserve Allen’s legacy and provide a space where her memory can be honored by the entire community.

In addition to the new memorial, Allen's legacy is celebrated through the Sheila Allen Memorial Scholarship, which supports Colonie Central High School students. This scholarship is a tribute to Allen’s academic dedication and spirit, providing financial support to Colonie Central High School seniors as they pursue their educational goals.

If you want to contribute to the Sheila Allen Memorial Scholarship, please visit this link.

Together, let us honor Sheila Allen’s life and legacy, supporting today’s students while remembering the bright future that was taken too soon.