NJ students: Old Bridge High School adds two inductees to Wall of Fame
Old Bridge High School has two new members on their Wall of Fame. District
administrators inducted two exemplary nominees in a ceremony at the Old Bridge
High School main campus on May 23 as part of their Senior Awards Night.
The two inductees to this year’s Wall of Fame are Quinton A. Crawford, assistant
coach of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team, and Dr. Nicole Okun, retired Chief
School Administrator for Old Bridge Township Public Schools.
To be eligible for nomination and consideration for the Wall of Fame, candidates
must have graduated from one of Old Bridge’s high schools: Madison Central, Cedar
Ridge, Old Bridge Adult High School, or Old Bridge High School; earned notable
employment/career achievements within their chosen fields; exhibited civic and/or
community accomplishments through service, volunteer work, or philanthropic
endeavors; or have received notable local, state or national honors; and have
graduated a minimum of five years prior to nomination.
Crawford, who graduated from Old Bridge in 2008, earned his Bachelor of General
Studies in Economic in Industry from the University of Arizona in 2013. There he
was a member of the University of Arizona Men’s Basketball Team. He went on to
earn a master’s in educational psychology from Pepperdine University in 2015,
where he was also a graduate assistant. Following that Crawford worked for the
National Basketball Association (NBA) in several capacities including: Video
coordinator for the Sacramento Kings; Head video coordinator for the Orlando
Magic and Charlotte Hornets; Assistant coach for the World Championship Los
Angeles Lakers; Head coach for the Lakers Summer League Team 2021; Assistant
coach for the 2020 and NBA All-Star Game and NBA Rising Star game.
In a pre-recorded acceptance speech recorded in southern California, Crawford told
the Seniors to, “set your goals high and achieve those goals. There are going to be
obstacles along the way which are going to try and set you back and discourage you
from achieving your goals, but don’t let anything or anybody tell you that you can’t.”
Crawford’s mother, Marilyn Crawford, accepted the award on his behalf.
The second inductee to this year’s OBHS Wall of Fame is former Old Bridge
Township Public School Superintendent Dr. Nicole Okun. Okun is the winner of
this year’s John Brunetti Community Spirit award, which grants eligibility for the
Wall of Fame, even if the winner did not attend Old Bridge schools. Okun is the
first and only woman to ever helm the district as superintendent. Okun took the podium to let the seniors in on what she perceives to be the secret to success.
“Learning and growing every day is the ultimate key to success,” Okun said. “Don’t
ever stop listening, questioning, dreaming, and achieving. Always, yes always, have a
passion for your life goals.”
The Wall of Fame ceremony opened Old Bridge High School Senior Scholarship
Awards. Of the Class of 2022, 160 seniors earned a total of $133,791.00 in
scholarships this year. The awards included seven Brunetti Foundation Scholarships
awarded to: Kaya Canikligil, Katie Chow, Naomi DeNovellis, Rishabh Karten,
Alexandra Mironescu, and Anthony Taranto.
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Mount Saint Mary Academy
Congratulations to the Mount Saint Mary Academy Class of 2022! Commencement Exercises were held on Saturday, June 4, in Immaculate Conception Chapel where diplomas were conferred to the 78 seniors and special awards were distributed. Over $24 million in scholarships was offered to members of the senior class. 100% were offered admission to four-year colleges and universities and 100% have been enrolled in four-year colleges and universities.
Diana Neste, valedictorian and Whitehouse Station resident, said, "Valedictorian’s etymology is from the Latin word 'vale' for farewell, after all. I have loved being your classmate and I truly hope you all feel the same way. I will forever be proud to be a part of this extraordinary class and ask you remember to live the fourth and always strive for grace, not perfection. Know that 'the future starts today, not tomorrow' and the circle of Mercy is truly timeless."
Salutatorian, Jerrine George of Edison, said, "To my fellow graduates, if I had one piece of advice to give, it would be the wise words of Mother Teresa: 'Reach high for stars lie hidden in your souls. Dream big for every dream precedes the goal.' We have been outstanding and phenomenal, and I hope to see remarkable things from all of us in the next few years."
Also: Nina Heim, a sophomore at Mount Saint Mary Academy and a resident of Westfield, has been accepted into the Voltage Scholars program, an accelerated economics program at the University of Chicago from June 22 to 24. Heim is among 45 students from across the country to be selected based on teacher recommendation, strong academic profile, and demonstrated interest in economics.
The scholarship-based program provides students the opportunity to learn from hands-on lectures about the University of Chicago’s distinctive approach to research in the field of economics. In addition to exploring topics in economics, students will also meet with University of Chicago admissions counselors to learn about highly selective college admissions and attend sessions to prepare for future careers in the field of economics.
In her application, Heim said, “Learning about economics has helped me to view some of the world’s most pressing choices through an entirely new and methodological lens. Economics became a passion of mine that I wanted to explore further while researching the economics of climate change and healthcare for Fed Challenge.”
Mathematics Department Chair, Kathleen Brennan, said, “It is quite an honor to be accepted into such a prestigious program. In both my AP Economics class and on my Fed Challenge team, Nina has demonstrated keen analytical skills, creativity, and insights into economic issues. I have no doubt she will learn a lot and be inspired by the many ways economics can be used to address some of the world’s most challenging problems.”
Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey
Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health, announced the winners of the Step Up Vax Up video and podcast contest. The contest challenged New Jersey college students to raise COVID-19 vaccine awareness and promote overall campus health and wellness. The winners are:
First place: Rachael Cenicola, College of New Jersey
Second place: Kiera Benson, Felician University
Third place: Estefania Dilone, Bloomfield College
Honorable mention: Emily Guercia, Montclair State University
Honorable mention: Ishva Mehta, Rutgers University
Honorable mention: Michelle Nwafulume, Thomas Edison State University
The winners videos/podcasts can be viewed at. https://www.stepupvaxup.com/winners.
Plainfield Public Schools
Plainfield Public Schools held a ceremony Monday, June 6, for seven rising ninth graders from Maxson Middle School and PAAAS Middle School who were recently accepted into Cohort Two of the Kean University Scholar Academy. The dual-enrollment program allows students to take college classes while they are still enrolled in high school. The program jump-starts students’ college careers by providing students the ability to earn college credits at the same time they are completing requirements for high school graduation. Student Nataly Portillo, a member of Plainfield's first cohort, gave students inspiring words of encouragement as they will begin classes on July 11.
"Dr. Diana Mitchell, superintendent, advised students to work hard and not be afraid to reach out for assistance as "everyone is here to make sure you are successful."
Each of the students received a certificate and an official letter of admittance from Kean University. Principals Hill and Stansbury shared the students' excitement as they received their letters of acceptance.
Raritan Valley Community College
The Nursing program at Raritan Valley Community College has received the largest gift in its history from the Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation (SHCHF) in support of the College's Nursing students. The $100,000 donation to the RVCC Foundation was announced yesterday by the Community Foundation of New Jersey.
The gift will fund 10 full scholarships—the first full scholarships in the Nursing program’s history—at $7,500 each, with an additional $25,000 to be used to help offset textbook and Nursing program expenses for dozens of other Nursing students.
“The importance of this gift to our Nursing program cannot be overstated; it is unprecedented in its size and its impact on our Nursing students,” said Dr. Michael McDonough, President, Raritan Valley Community College. “We are grateful for the leadership and generosity of the Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation.”
“Through the Visiting Nurse Association, we know firsthand that nurses not only help people get well, but also fundamentally change lives. Now as a foundation committed to healthcare worker availability and employment, and ultimately stronger, healthier communities in Somerset and Morris counties, it is our privilege to support future Raritan Valley Nursing students. The future of nursing starts now," said Kathy Cummins, SHCHF Board Chairperson.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation for this important endorsement of our students. And given the challenges of the last two years, this gift is also a timely, triumphant affirmation of their choice to become nurses. The fruits of this support will pay dividends to the community for years, as our nursing grads go on to serve countless lives in their careers as health professionals,” said Linda J. Romaine, chair, RVCC Health Science Education Department.
To be eligible for the scholarships, students must be enrolled in the College's Nursing program and participating in their second year of clinicals during the 2022-2023 academic year. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 credit hours and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Students also must demonstrate some financial need, which will be determined by completing a FAFSA application.
The Raritan Valley Community College Nursing program offers an associate of applied science degree in nursing, which prepares graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who wish to advance in their careers by becoming a Registered Nurse may enter the LPN-RN (PNAD) Degree option. The program is accredited by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
The courses of study for both options are designed as career programs, although graduates may wish to continue studies for a baccalaureate degree in nursing at a four-year institution. Articulation agreements which enhance the transfer process are in effect with numerous colleges and universities.
RVCC Nursing graduates are employed at major healthcare facilities throughout the tri-state area.
For those seeking additional information about ways to support the college and the work of the RVCC Foundation, or for additional information about the scholarships, contact Mike Marion, executive director, at 908-648-8567 or michael.marion@raritanval.edu, or visit https://rvccfoundation.org.
Readington Township School District
Three Bridges School was awarded a $10,000 Sustainable Jersey for Schools grant funded the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). Sixteen $10,000 grants and ten $2,000 grants were distributed to support elementary through high-school public schools and school districts across the state. The grants fund a variety of projects including aquaponics systems, outdoor classrooms, pollinator and edible gardens, water bottle refilling stations, tree planting, food waste and composting initiatives.
“On behalf of the Readington Township School District, I would like to express my gratitude to Sustainable Jersey for Schools and the NJEA for selecting Three Bridges School as recipient of a $10,000 grant. Our school district has a long tradition of being environmentally friendly and this grant supports our continued work. Our sustainability efforts are memorialized in our strategic goals where we wish to promote, in our students, an awareness of one's self, others, as well as the environment. As we live this mission, the grant will assist us in funding a large-scale green project that will be available for future students, the grant will be used to transform a detention basin into a bioswale.” said Jonathan Hart, Superintendent of Schools in Readington Township School District, Hunterdon County.
With this contribution NJEA has provided $1.75 million to support a sustainable future for children across the state through the Sustainable Jersey for Schools program. “This is an important program that directs resources into our schools and NJEA is proud to continue to work with Sustainable Jersey,” said NJEA President Sean Spiller. “When our students can learn, at an early age, that sustainable and healthy practices often go “hand in hand” with economic efficiencies, we all benefit from the positive changes. It is our job to help create a new generation of engaged citizens and leaders. We help ensure that we leave a better world for our students when we emphasize the value of sustainability.” In addition to the grant funding, NJEA supports Sustainable Jersey for Schools as a program underwriter.
“Sustainable Jersey is proud to support the work of each of these schools and school districts and to recognize the dedication of every applicant,” said Sustainable Jersey Executive Director Randall Solomon. “These creative projects are exceptional and will serve to accelerate school-centered sustainability programs as we head into a pivotal decade for climate action and sustainability in our state.” Proposals were judged by an independent Blue-Ribbon Selection Committee.
The Readington Township School District serves approximately 1400 students and includes two K-3 buildings, one 4-5 building, and a middle school that houses sixth to eighth graders. Located in beautiful Hunterdon County, Readington Township is a community that supports education, civic-mindedness, a positive work ethic, and sound character. The school district's curriculum and high student achievement reflect these strong community values and the collaborative efforts of school staff and families. Additionally, the schools address the diverse learning needs of all students through thoughtfully planned differentiation of instruction and through a variety of differentiated programs in academic areas. The visual and performing arts as well as the after-school opportunities provide students with a well-balanced program. Our district mission statement: We empower members of our community to lead purposeful lives with integrity, to cultivate a spirit of discovery, and to embrace connections in our diverse, global society.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Schools
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools recognized 18 exceptional staff members retiring in the 2021-2022 school year with a celebration at Evergreen Elementary School on May 25. Celebrating in-person this year, following last year’s virtual celebration, made it that much more special.
“The staff in our district is world class and it is always bittersweet to see them retire,” said Superintendent, Dr. Joan Mast. “We are celebrating the countless ways they have positively impacted our district, especially our students, and wish them the joy-filled retirements they deserve.”
The district honored the following retirees at the celebratory meeting:
Beverly Moskal, Executive Secretary, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
Donna Helock, Classroom Aide, Coles Elementary School
Luke Kostu, School Counselor, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
Arlene Long, Classroom Aide, Nettingham Middle School
Jackie Vedutis, Classroom Aide, Brunner Elementary School
Deborah Ann Cocuzza, Cafeteria Worker, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
William Washington, Custodian, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
Sondra Chernoff, Elementary Teacher, McGinn Elementary School
Elizabeth Gordon, Student Assistance Coordinator, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
Yolanda Gregov, Lunch/General Aide, Evergreen Elementary School
Laura Kelk, Preschool Teacher, Coles Elementary School
Janice Krug, Payroll Specialist, Administration
Anthony Miranda, Director of Buildings & Grounds, Administration
Joan Marie Rosen, Special Education Teacher, Coles Elementary School
Beth Ruggieri, Special Education Teacher, Nettingham Middle School
Karen Wetherell, Principal, Coles Elementary School
Colleen Haubert, Principal, Evergreen Elementary School
Thomas Edison State University
Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president, announced that Thomas Edison State University will join more than 140 colleges and universities nationwide to partner with e-commerce giant Amazon to expand career advancement opportunities for its 750,000 hourly employees.
Career Choice is an education benefit that empowers employees to learn new skills for career success at Amazon or elsewhere.
“Amazon’s Career Choice program aligns with our mission to prepare our workforce for the jobs of the future,” said Hancock. “We are honored to be chosen and excited about the opportunity to expand access to education for Amazon’s front line workers while helping to up skill and drive the New Jersey economy.”
The state of New Jersey is working to create broader and more transferable skills sets for working adults by combining on-the-job training and college learning into a degree pathway, saving students time and money while actively building the New Jersey workforce.
“I am pleased to see one of New Jersey’s largest employers partnering with our premier state university for adult students. This relationship will empower more adults to achieve educational and career success, uplifting our communities and workforce, without becoming overwhelmed by the escalating cost of higher education,” said New Jersey Senator Shirley K. Turner.
Amazon provides a variety of education and up skilling opportunities including full college tuition, industry certifications designed to lead to in-demand jobs, and foundational skills such as English language proficiency, high school diplomas, and GEDs. With Career Choice, Amazon employees can enroll in any of the more than 100 areas of study at Thomas Edison to earn a degree completely online. The University’s proximity to key Amazon distribution centers as well as its reputation as a leader in online education contributed to the decision to partner.
“Thomas Edison State University’s expertise in educating adult learners makes them an excellent addition to the Career Choice program,” said Colin Newman, director of public policy for Amazon. “We are pleased to add an additional public New Jersey institution of higher education to the network. These partnerships are part of our continued investment in the Career Choice program.”
Since launching in 2012, Career Choice has helped provide education for more than 50,000 Amazon employees. In the United States, the company is investing $1.2 billion to up skill more than 300,000 Amazon employees by 2025 to help move them into higher-paying, in-demand jobs.
Westfield Public Schools
Edison Intermediate School gifted education teacher Esther Van Riper and Roosevelt Intermediate School mathematics teacher Christine Heisler have been recognized as outstanding intermediate school educators by the Optimist Club of Westfield.
The Optimist Club, a not-for-profit service organization that supports youth and the community, presents an award annually to two Westfield intermediate school educators - one each from Edison and Roosevelt.
“The Intermediate School outstanding teacher award was established in 1998 by the Optimist Club to give deserving credit to our intermediate school teachers who are dedicated to providing an educationally stimulating and supporting environment during this critical stage of adolescence,” said Superintendent Dr. Raymond González. “On behalf of the Board of Education and our entire school community, I congratulate Mrs. Heisler and Mrs. Van Riper on this important recognition.”
Heisler and Van Riper will be honored at the Board of Education meeting on June 14 and at an Optimist Club dinner in September.
Letters of nomination express appreciation to Heisler for her kindness, dedication, and positive attitude as a teacher who “makes math fun and understandable for her students” and who “makes herself available for her students before and after school.”
Van Riper is lauded as a teacher who “genuinely cares about her students as if they were her own children.” Nominators praise her “extraordinary classroom environment” where “when introducing new or more complicated topics, she explains it in a way that is easy to understand.”
The selection committee consisted of Optimist Club members, along with Dr. González, Edison principal Dr. Matthew Bolton, Roosevelt principal Brian Gechtman, and previous award recipients.
Student and School news appears on Saturdays. Email: cnmetro@mycentraljersey.com
Carolyn Sampson is Executive Office Assistant for the Courier News, The Home News Tribune and MyCentralJersey.com, and handles the weekly Student News page.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ students: Old Bridge High School adds two inductees to Wall of Fame
