Jim attended Sacred Heart Elementary and High School in Yonkers, New York. He graduated from the University of Dayton in 1972, and went on to receive an M.S. in Sports Medicine, from the University of Virginia.  In addition, Jim graduated from the New York Medical College with an M.S. in Health Care Administration. While still in a fulltime management role in the healthcare sector, he taught courses in healthcare leadership and health information at both Norwalk Community College and Sacred Heart University. Jim was passionate about encouraging young people to continue their education and fulfil their potential. He mentored many of his young students and employees, who saw him ‘as a caring man and not just a boss or professor’.

This is a quote from one of Jim’s former students:

‘Professor Bartley was one of my favorite professors. I looked forward to attending his class every week. He was passionate about teaching and always encouraged us to see the world. He wrote my recommendation letter to study abroad in Australia, an opportunity I am eternally grateful for. ‘

Jim was very proud of his Irish heritage. He co-chaired the first committee creating the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Stamford in 1995.  He went on to serve as chairman of the parade for many years. He was an avid member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) and served on the men’s division’s board of directors.

Jim had many good friends; he was especially close to his childhood buddies from Yonkers. He always had the ability to tell a joke and had a penchant for looking at the bright side of any situation. After retiring in 2019, he continued to give classes at Sacred Heart University. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, taking many trips, swimming in the Long Island Sound, watching his beloved Yankees, and riding around the neighborhood on his Vespa.

Jim passed away peacefully on October 21, 2021, at home surrounded by his family.

The IACSOS is grateful for Jim’s long-term contributions to our Stamford community. His legacy will live on through this organization, in our memories, and in our hearts.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Contest applicants must:

• Attend a high school in Stamford (or being homeschooled in Stamford at the high school level) or be a resident of Stamford
• Be accepted by an accredited college, university, or school of higher learning.

CONTEST CALENDAR

• Applicants shall submit their applications by email to stamfordspdp@gmail.com no later than May 8, 2026 at 11:00pm.

AWARD AMOUNT: $1,000

METHOD OF ADJUDICATION

Applicant shall submit:

• The completed application, including how you meet the eligibility requirements.
• Their official school transcript
• Two letters of recommendation

• Provide a resume which includes academic honors, athletic participation, extracurricular activities at school, community involvement, volunteer activity, honors, citations, awards and notable achievements
  • An essay on one of the following topics: “What the concept of immigrant struggle means to you” or “How you celebrate your cultural heritage,” and explain how your perspective relates to the historical struggles of the Irish.