Donor-Created Scholarships

Kaija Jung Andersen Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by family and friends of in honor of Kaija Jung Andersen, lifelong and proud resident of Montclair and a rising second grader at Nishuane Elementary School. Kaija is remembered for her confidence, empathy, humor, tenacity, her enthusiasm for life and learning, and for sharing expressions of love for all types of people and living things. To those whose lives she touched, Kaija continues to embody the idea that anyone can make an impact in the world, even by making a difference in one other person’s life. Scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors who demonstrate the potential for success in bringing people together and creating joy and comfort in their lives. Recipients will be selected based on their academic excellence, demonstrated commitment to community service and personal development, and how they exemplify Kaija’s spirit through their acts of compassion, creativity, curiosity, courage, and inclusion.

Jack Crying Raven Anderson Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of John H. W. Anderson Jr. — known to loved ones and in his art and Native communities as Jack Crying Raven Anderson. Jack was a MHS class of '71 graduate, proud father of Montclair Public School graduates, and 45-year Montclair resident. Jack was an avid artist and art lover whose love for painting and music was deeply influenced by the rich cultural and artistic landscape in his hometown of Montclair. His art reflected this inspiration and his African American and Native heritage. Jack's friends and family have created this fund to support future generations of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) artists. Recognizing that many students forgo pursuing a career in the arts because of the cost of education or expected earning potential, this scholarship is awarded to a senior with financial need, to support their ongoing study of the arts, including visual arts, music, dance, museum curation, etc.

Eric Boehlert Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of Eric Boehlert, a resident of Montclair for more than 20 years and the father of two MHS alumni. Eric was a journalist who was widely admired for his coverage of American media and politics from a progressive standpoint. Eric was a fearless writer, critical thinker, and active community member who is remembered for his honesty, tenacity, diplomacy, kindness, and infectious enthusiasm for music. This award is for a graduating senior who is a writer or storyteller and has demonstrated intellectual curiosity, academic achievement, passionate enthusiasm, and strong values.

Richard I. Bonsal Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded in memory of Richard I. Bonsal by all of his children and grandchildren to a Montclair High School Senior, for academic achievement and interest in the pursuit of knowledge and for high standards of integrity and concern for the rights of others. Richard Bonsal was a longtime resident of Montclair who attended the Montclair Public Schools graduating in 1938. He was the highest scoring member of the MHS State Championship Mathematics Team. He received a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Yale University with High Honors in 1942 and became President of Joshua L. Baily & Co., Inc. He was a Commissioner of the Town of Montclair from 1972 to 1980, and Deputy Mayor of the Town from 1972 to 1976. He dedicated his life to serving his community and was active in many industry associations, Montclair civic and charitable organizations, and barbershop singing as a member of the Dapper Dans of Harmony Chorus and the Baritones Quartet.

Harold Bouton Princeton Award

This award is presented in memory of Mr. Bouton and given to students attending Princeton University to aid in their future academic achievements.

Connors Family Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating Senior in recognition of his or her academic achievement and service to school and community.

Charles P. Conrad Memorial Scholarship

The Charles P. Conrad Memorial Scholarship has been established in memory of Charlie Conrad, a highly respected book editor and publishing professional who lived in Montclair for nearly 30 years and whose son, Carlos, is a graduate of MHS. Charlie loved attending his son's Cross Country and Track and Field events, as well as watching him perform with Dance Co. and the MHS Madrigal Choir. An incredibly hard worker as a student and as a professional, Charlie Conrad believed books changed lives, and valued good writing, thoughtful reading, and great conversation. This scholarship recognizes doing what it takes to share your voice, however you choose to do it.

Davis/Ricci CSJ Scholarship

This scholarship is funded by the Davis/Ricci family in honor of the Center for Social Justice (CSJ) faculty who are dedicated to teaching about social injustice, the preservation of human rights, and community activism, and inspiring the next generation to be leaders and change makers. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from the CSJ community.

DiGeronimo Family ― Heart of Montclair Scholarship

The Heart of Montclair Scholarship memorializes the DiGeronimo family’s connection to the culture of Montclair. The DiGeronimo’s are a long-time Montclair family with deep roots in the town, who celebrate the fact that the nature of our town gives children the opportunity to learn skills not taught in many places. These are skills that can only be learned by interacting with people from different backgrounds. Throughout Montclair’s evolution, the constant has always been the ability of its children to live and grow together: in the schools, on the athletic fields, in the neighborhoods, and at social gatherings. An important life skill that’s learned in Montclair is the ability to communicate with everyone. This is the emotional fiber of the town. This is the Heart of Montclair. The award goes to a deserving senior who exhibits strong family ties, and respect for and love of the culture of Montclair. This student will excel in academics, and embrace the values of community, friendship and the recognition of the ties that bind all of Montclair together.

Dreams Can Happen Scholarship

Dreams Can Happen is a registered 501(c)(3) organization comprised of friends who have grown up in Montclair, most of whom have graduated from MHS and recognize all that Montclair has to offer. Their mission is to help those in need. this scholarship is for a student who is facing or has overcome challenges, and whose ability to reach their potential has not been realized. Dreams Can Happen strives to encourage and support students who would benefit from this award as they begin their life journey. The recipient should value and prioritize family connection.

Roger Drill and Lettie Teague Vocational Scholarship

Not all high school graduates opt to continue their education at a university or college. Some students will choose a school where they gain practical experience and skills in highly specialized fields such as plumbing, electricity, cosmetology, automotive repair, or medical imaging. This is the first MSF award created specifically for the benefit of a student choosing this kind of professional education. Roger Drill and Lettie Teague are longtime Montclair residents with a deep love for the community and concern for the future of its youth. Roger Drill has over four decades of experience in commercial real estate construction and development. Lettie Teague has been a journalist and columnist for decades, and was most recently the longtime wine columnist of The Wall Street Journal.

Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship

This Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship honors a student who sees opportunity where others see obstacles. A self-starter and problem-solver, they take initiative to improve their school, community, or environment — often with an entrepreneurial spirit that turns ideas into action. Whether through civic engagement, creative solutions, or small ventures, they don’t wait for recognition or perfect results. Instead, they bring a positive, can-do attitude and a genuine drive to make life better for others. Big or small, their efforts leave a lasting impact — making their high school and the world around them better than they found it.

Frederic’s Fine Jewelers Scholarship

This scholarship is given to a student interested in merging the arts and business.

Garden Club of Montclair Scholarship

This award is given to a student interested in promoting, protecting, and maintaining the health and beauty of our natural environment.

Brendan W. Gill Scholarship

Started by the friends and family of Brendan W. Gill, this scholarship honors his service and commitment to the Montclair community. Brendan is a proud, lifelong Montclair resident, Montclair High School Class of '92 graduate, MHS All Class Reunion Board Member and former President of the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders. As an active member of the community Brendan has a 20-plus year career in public service. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating college-bound senior who is passionate about public service, as exemplified by their leadership and engagement in politics, policy and/or civics.

Alica and Peter Giuffra Scholarship

This scholarship, established by Project Graduation 2018 and the MHS Class of 2018, honors Peter and Alica’s decades of service to the MHS community and their enthusiastic support for its traditions. The recipients of these awards have enhanced the spirit and vitality of MHS.

Craig Gonzalez Scholarship

This scholarship has been established in memory of Craig Gonzalez, a long time Montclair resident and father of MHS alumnus Andrew Gonzalez. Craig’s friends and family have created this fund to honor his commitment to education and his generous spirit. This award recognizes the potential for success and strength of character.

Molly Storb Hartzell Social Work Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to an individual who plans to pursue social work or another path of interest that serves the welfare of others. It is established in memory of Molly Storb Hartzell, loving grandmother of six, including four Montclair alumni. Molly pioneered a role for herself in social work during a time when women were confined to working as wives or secretaries. Driven by a deep desire to help those in need, Molly’s passion was people which guided her to pursue a masters in social work and a subsequent career. She lived her personal and professional life as a beacon of goodness, putting kindness, empathy and compassion before all else. This award recognizes a student who shares Molly’s joyous, giving spirit, and is called to a career in social/community service.

Robert S. Hurt Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Montclair residents, MHS alumni, friends and family of MHS basketball standout and 1980 graduate, Robert “Bobby Smooth” Hurt. After four years as an MHS Varsity starter, Smooth, or Coach Hurt as he was affectionately known by many, continued his basketball career at Division 1 Fairfield University, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree. Returning to Montclair, as the MHS Assistant Boys Varsity Coach and JV Basketball Coach for over 18 years, and the founder of Montclair based “Basketball 101” summer camp ― a safe place and basketball training ground for hundreds of youth ― Coach Hurt shared his knowledge and enthusiasm for the game and was a mentor to many. This scholarship is given to a member of the boys or girls MHS Varsity Basketball team who embodies the qualities of generosity, kindness and caring by which Coach Hurt lived.

Jean H. Kidd Scholarship

The Jean H. Kidd Scholarship is established in memory of Jean Hyde Kidd, a lifelong Montclair resident and volunteer community leader. Jean was a champion for volunteerism in the areas of education, diversity, and community beautification in Montclair. It is awarded to a senior who has shown leadership both as a volunteer, and in promoting volunteerism in the Montclair community.

Alvin L. Koschik, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded in memory of Alvin L. Koschik, Jr., who was a Jazz organist and trumpet player and the paternal grandfather of two MHS alumni. It is awarded to an MHS senior who is passionate about music and has contributed his or her talents to Montclair High School.

Krishnan Family Scholarship

This scholarship was established to further equity of opportunity in education. It is awarded to a student who has demonstrated a strong work ethic, great strength of character, and service to their community.

Late Bloomer Scholarship

This scholarship seeks to assist students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, see adversity as an opportunity, possess an entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to obtain a higher education.

Craig A. MacCallum STEM/Aviation Scholarship

This scholarship is given in memory of Craig A. MacCallum, who was a flight instructor and died tragically in an airplane accident in May 2013. His daughter, Margaret was a 2013 MHS graduate and his son James, a 2017 MHS graduate. The scholarship is awarded to a graduating MHS senior who has shown an interest in pursuing studies in science,technology, engineering, math or aviation.

Mann Family Scholarship

The Mann Family Scholarship is given to assist a diligent and ambitious student attend a four-year college of their choice.

Montclair High School Class of 1943 Scholarship

This MHS Class which has given scholarships since 1993 will continue to give scholarships indefinitely as a memorial to the graduates of the Class of 1943, many of whom lost their lives in World War II.

Montclair High School Class of 1986 Legacy Award

Created by MHS Class of ’86 to assist future generations of Mounties with the costs of higher education, this award represents the legacy, ideals, and spirit of the Class of 1986 and pays tribute to departed classmates. It is given to academically motivated, community-minded students who show special Mountie spirit in athletics, activities, or volunteering.

Montclair Foundation Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a senior who has engaged in forward thinking intellectual and/or creative exploration in the spirit of the Montclair High School.

Ernest S. Prince Memorial Scholarship

Ernest S. Prince was a peerless leader within the Urban League movement and dedicated his life to their century-long commitment to civil rights and equal justice. He continued a lifelong crusade to improve the lives of those in need and strove tirelessly to uplift the broader community. Mr. Prince, a man of unparalleled integrity with a work ethic to match, strongly believed that it was important to acknowledge African American youth who achieve academic excellence and are committed to leadership and social justice. The scholarship recipient should uphold and reflect these qualities and traits. Mr. Prince was the proud grandfather to three MHS graduates: Jasper, Austin, and Julian Shorter.

Ramaswami Family Scholarship

This scholarship was established to fuel equitable opportunities for all through higher education.

Randi Simon Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been established in memory of Randi Simon, a long time Montclair resident, architect, business leader, and proud mother of three Montclair public school graduates. Randi's friends and family have created this fund to honor her commitment to growing a diversified next generation of leaders in the Architecture profession. She advocated tirelessly to create opportunities for members of underrepresented communities and this award is meant to carry on that legacy.

The Singer Charitable Trust Scholarship

This scholarship is for the benefit of students who plan to continue their post high school education majoring in the visual and/or performing arts. The recipient(s) will be academically-motivated and community minded. This award is given in gratitude for the fine education provided to the Singer children, all MHS graduates ('76, ’77, ’80), and in appreciation for the great town of Montclair.

Clem Taylor Scholarship

This scholarship was created by family and friends to honor Montclair resident Adrian Clemens “Clem” Taylor, an engaged citizen, caring mentor, and one of the nation’s most gifted and passionate journalists. The scholarship is awarded to a senior who exudes the curiosity, spirit and commitment to storytelling that Clem loved and lived.

Teachers' Club of Montclair Scholarship

This scholarship from the Montclair Teachers’ Club declares the club's belief in the importance of teachers for the future of the local and global community. They endorse and promote those who will continue to exhibit excellence in this field.

Janis Lubawsky Townsend Scholarship

Janis Lubawsky Townsend, a Montclair resident for 32 years, grew up in a time when women were expected to become secretaries and wives. She saw a different path for herself. She became the first person in her family to receive a bachelor's degree. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in American literature. In her honor, this scholarship is awarded to a MHS senior who will be the first generation in her family to attend college and is interested in technology, writing, or social justice.

Treene Family Scholarships

These scholarships were given by the Treene family to assist deserving students to attend a four-year college of their choice.

Ubuntu Scholarship ― 'I am because we are'

Together we make our community stronger by supporting all those who are working to rise up. The Schraven family has created this scholarship to support BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) first generation MHS students.

Gary F. Whitlock Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded in memory of Gary F. Whitlock, MHS Class of 1977 and a teacher and chess coach in the East Orange Public Schools. Gary was passionately interested in black culture and this scholarship is given to a student who shares this interest and who has also demonstrated intellectual curiosity, artistic ability, a commitment to helping people in need and/or a love of chess and sports, all traits embodied by Gary.

Phyllis Ziegler Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded in the memory of Phyllis Ziegler, the maternal aunt of two MHS alumni. Phyllis Ziegler was a gifted linguist, fluent in many languages, who became a leader at the NYC Department of Education, as the Director of K-12 Second Language Programs. A respected expert in foreign language acquisition, she was in demand as a speaker around the world. An avid world traveler and global citizen, Phyllis inspired many by sharing her enthusiasm for learning, teaching, and living. To honor Phyllis’s passions for learning foreign languages and exploring other cultures, Phyllis’s family grants this scholarship to a senior who has also demonstrated these passions and intends to pursue the study of a foreign language and/or education in college.