LT Scott Pavlick Heart Strong 5K and Festival

Lt. Scott Pavlick Memorial Fund

Lt. Scott Pavlick was born on July 5th, 1977.  He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend.  Scott graduated from Chenango Forks High School in 1995 and went on to attend Ithaca College, where he graduated in 1999. He was a standout on the men's swim team, a two-time All American who, in 1997, broke the college's 100-yard backstroke record. It was a testament to his determination, discipline, and natural ability.
Scott began his career with the Binghamton Fire Department on April 1st, 2008.  Scott proudly served the City of Binghamton for 17 years, answering calls, helping families, and putting others before himself every single day. He was calm, steady, and loyal.  The firefighter you wanted beside you on your worst day.

He was promoted to Lieutenant on March 1, 2023, and assigned to Engine 1 on Conklin Ave.  Over the course of his career, Scott earned multiple unit citations and commendations for bravery. He received a Fire Rescue Award in 2009 for saving a man from a structure fire and played a critical role in the 2024 river rescue at Rock Bottom Dam, where he and his crew pulled an unresponsive victim to safety and successfully revived him with CPR.

Scott's discipline and spirit extended beyond the firehouse. He completed the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC, the Big Sur Marathon in California, and the Mount Desert Island Marathon in Bar Harbor, Maine-where he proposed to Jodi at the finish line.
Those who knew Scott best will remember much more than his accomplishments.  He had a good sense of humor and a sharp wit he inherited from his father, along with a calm presence in every situation.  He had a rare gift for easing the weight others carried just by being near them.  Scott cherished time with his family above anything else.  Whether going out to dinner, attending events, or simply being together, he embraced every moment. He had a way of making life look easy.  He made people feel safe and wherever he went, he left things better than he found them.

Scott passed away suddenly on June 3rd, 2025, from a duty-related cardiac condition caused by long-term job stress. His death has since been formally recognized as a Line of Duty Death by both the City of Binghamton and the International Association of Fire Fighters.  Scott gave this job his heart, and in the end, that heart paid the price.

Scott’s life was centered on his loved ones, his community, and his unwavering desire to help those around him.  Funds raised will help start a Foundation in Scott’s memory.  Thank you to all our participants, our volunteers and for the overwhelming support of our community.