This past October, almost 300 of Give Back scholars, parents, mentors, and allies attended the first ever New Jersey Scholar Dinner at The Palace at Somerset Park, a beautiful venue decorated with accents of Give Back colors. Mentors joined their mentees at this event and got to meet their scholar’s parents, caregivers, and siblings. Before the dinner, staff mingled with college partners, family and friends before joining scholars for a communal meal. Speakers included current student scholars, university representatives, and Give Back founder Bob Carr.
Audrey Vargus-Cruz, Give Something Back senior at Foundation Academy, spoke about her life before receiving the scholarship and how the foundation has positively impacted her life as well as her educational goals. The program featured Dr. Susan Cole of Montclair State University and Dr. Fred Keating. Dr. Keating is President of Rowan College of Gloucester County, one of New Jersey’s newest partnerships, which allows students to study at community college before transitioning to Rowan University to compete a four-year degree. The night commemorated the hard work and dedication of students and mentors, as well as celebrating the commitment of Give Back’s partner colleges and universities in New Jersey. Thank you to everyone who joined us and we look forward to seeing you next year!