Scholarships

Scholarship contributions—whether endowed or given annually—literally change lives.

Each year, hundreds of William Paterson students receive support from generous alumni and friends in the form of scholarships.  These scholarships enable students to devote time and energy to the academic and extra-curricular activities that contribute to a well-balanced and fulfilling college education and that will serve them in the professional lives they pursue after graduation.

Each year, however, the need grows.  The average William Paterson student graduates approximately $28,000 in debt, because even though more than 80% of William Paterson students receive some form of financial aid, the number of students receiving loans is nearly three times the number of students receiving scholarships.  Scholarships reduce loan debt and help make it possible for young alumni to more quickly reach the milestones of post-graduate life, such as purchasing a home, starting and supporting a family, and saving for the future.

Click here to see a list of this year’s scholarship awards and the incredible donors who helped make them possible.

Interested in being on that list next year?  Click here to make your gift now or contact Mariel Read Essner for more information or with questions about our scholarship program: 973.720.3811

In addition to being recognized in various University publications, scholarship donors will learn about their recipients and have the opportunity to meet them at our annual Scholarship Dinner.  

William Paterson University Scholarship Recipients

Sarah Abaza
Communication • Media Production • Media Studies
College of the Arts and Communication

Sarah is a Dean’s List student who is active on campus as a member of the Muslim Student Association and also a volunteer educator for the Circassian Benevolent Association Sunday School.  She enjoys photography and videography and hopes to use her passions to educate others in the future.

David Blauvelt
Art • Secondary Education
College of the Arts and Communication
Cotsakos College of Business

David maintains a near-perfect grade point average and has been named to the Dean’s List every semester of his college career. He is a member of many University clubs, state organizations, and national honor societies including the Student Art Association, Arts Educators of New Jersey, and the National Art Honor Society. 

Devene Burke
Nursing
College of Science and Health

Devene is a strong student who is already putting her Nursing and Public Health education to good use. In addition to an on-campus job in Shea Center for Performing Arts, she works as a Psychiatric Nursing assistant at a local health care center. She is also BLS certified and a hospital volunteer.

Aileen Ruiz
Elementary Education • Teacher of Students with Disabilities
Liberal Studies • English and Psychology
College of Education
College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Aileen has been a Dean’s List scholar every semester and maintains an exceptional grade point average. She has served on the executive board of the Education Club and is the Community Service Chair of Theta Phi Alpha, a Resident Assistant, and a Peer Academic Leader. Aileen is a certified lifeguard and also a frequent volunteer with various local charitable organizations.

Robert Wimbush
Management
Cotsakos College of Business

Following his graduation, Robert plans to pursue his MBA and then a career in corporate banking.  In addition to working part-time, he is also a musician and has performed at the Meadowlands and on News 12 NJ; he recently self-released an indie album.