Woburn, Massachusetts, May 28, 2026 – Northern Bank is pleased to announce Max Costa as the recipient of the 2026 James E. McGarry, Jr. college scholarship.
This $5,000 scholarship honors the late "Jim" McGarry of Woburn for his 50 years of dedicated service to Northern Bank and his lifelong support for local fire and police departments. The college scholarship is awarded annually to a student with a parent or guardian who is an active firefighter or police officer in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
In his essay, Max reflected on the example set by his first responder parents and the values of service they instilled in him, writing, "They have shown me that one person's actions can truly change someone's life, and that is exactly the kind of impact I hope to make on the world." He also shared that "doing the right thing is not always easy, but it is always worth it," underscoring how his parents' dedication to helping others has shaped his own commitment to service.
Max has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others throughout his high school years. He has supported veteran families through The Mission Continues, helped assemble and distribute meals to people experiencing homelessness with the Somerville Police Department Community Policing Unit, assisted with veterans remembrance efforts through Medford and Somerville Veterans Services, volunteered with puppy transport and adoption support through Aruba Flight Volunteers, and contributed at the Southampton Shelter in Boston. A graduate of Arlington Catholic High School, he will attend High Point University in North Carolina this fall, where he plans to study Business Management.
"Max's deep commitment to community service, his respect for the sacrifices made by first responders, and his desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others embody the spirit of this scholarship," said Michelle Arnold, Northern Bank Charitable Foundation Committee member. "His essay and volunteer work reflect maturity, compassion, and a genuine sense of purpose. We are proud to support Max as he begins this next chapter and look forward to recognizing another outstanding student next year."
The Northern Bank Charitable Foundation has annually administered the James E. McGarry, Jr. Scholarship Fund since it was established in 2014. The scholarship will application will be available for Class of 2027 seniors in January 2027.
