Dear Editor:
The PSEG Foundation and the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) are pleased to announce the availability of the 2012 application for the Dana Christmas Scholarship for Heroism.
The Dana Christmas Scholarship for Heroism was established to honor the Seton Hall University student who is credited with saving lives and helping many students avoid serious injury during the tragic dormitory fire on January 19, 2001. Christmas, who was a resident advisor in the Boland Hall dormitory, passed up multiple opportunities to leave the burning building in order to help evacuate her fellow students.
It was her selfless efforts that prompted the Legislature to create this scholarship program, funded in its entirety by the PSEG Foundation, to recognize individuals who perform exceptional acts of heroism. Up to five young New Jersey residents will receive a one-time award of up to $10,000 towards college costs.
To be considered for the scholarship, nominees must be New Jersey residents both at the time of the act of heroism and upon application. They must have been 21 years of age or younger at the time of the heroic act, a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, and registered with the Selective Service (if required).
If you know of an individual who meets these qualifications, s/he should complete an application and submit it to HESAA with at least one supporting nomination no later than October 15, 2012.
The application and nomination form are available at HESAA’s website at http://www.hesaa.org/Pages/GrantsandScholarshipsDetails.aspx – click the “Dana Christmas Scholarship for Heroism” link.
Applications will be reviewed and up to 5 finalists selected by members of the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority Board. Recipients will be notified in writing of their selection.
Sincerely,
Sheila Rostiac, President PSEG Foundation
Gabrielle Charette, Esq. Executive Director, HESAA