Thomas W. Higdon, Jr. was a detective in the New York City Police Department’s 105th precinct who passed away suddenly on October 21, 2009 at the age of 38. The Higdon family, as a way to turn tragedy into hope, decided to establish an Endowment Fund in the Alive in Hope Foundation in his name that would award scholarships to students at St. Clare’s School in Rosedale, where Tommy spent his formative years.
To help commemorate and honor Tommy’s life and to raise resources for the scholarship, the family hosted a dinner dance this past Friday, March 26 at the Immaculate Conception Center in Douglaston, Queens. New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly came to speak of Tommy’s dedication to his duty, his fellow New Yorkers and his community. Tommy’s siblings, Marc and Tiara Faith, read deeply moving poems they had written for their brother. All portrayed a man who put others above himself, exuded tremendous spirit and was an exemplary son, grandson, brother, friend and colleague.
The dinner raised over $22,000 and continues to receive donations from generous family, friends, and colleagues. This generosity will allow two scholarships to be awarded this upcoming school year. In this and subsequent years, the winners of the scholarships will be based on a comic art competition. An artist at heart, Tommy really embraced this particular genre. .
On behalf of the Higdon family, we extend our deepest thanks to all who supported the dinner dance in Tommy’s memory. The Alive in Hope Foundation also expresses its gratitude to Tommy’s family, especially Connie, his mother, Thomas, Sr., Marc, and Tiara Faith for their strength and for making a difference in the lives of students who will follow in Tommy’s footsteps.
To view coverage of the dinner dance visit Netny.net and fast forward to the 9th minute of the video. You can also view photos of the event at the Alive in Hope Foundation's Flickr page or view the journal.
