Scholarships

Established in 2012 by Susan Bischoff, parent of James Bischoff '01, in memory of her mother, this scholarship is awarded to a senior who intends to pursue a degree in education, preferably elementary education.

2023 Recipient – Mackenzie Flood ‘23
2022 Recipient – Alexis Pereira ‘22
2021 Recipient – Elizabeth Walch ‘21
2020 Recipient – Madeline Abood ‘20
2019 Recipient – Kaylee Bertani ‘19
2018 Recipient - Olivia Yarem ‘18
2017 Recipient - Daniela Guardascione ‘17
2016 Recipient - Kristen O’Connor ‘16
2015 Recipient - Grace Gelcius '15
2014 Recipient - William Marsh '14
2013 Recipient - Kelly Springer '13
2012 Recipient - Molly Luppino '12

The Dr. Karen S. Piasecki '88 Endowed Scholarship was established in 2017 by Nancy E Foulks '76 in recognition of Dr. Piasecki's 25 years of service to Union Catholic and her commitment to educational opportunities for students at all learning levels.  This scholarship will be awarded to an enrolled UC student who is working to maximum potential and is actively involved in all aspects of the Union Catholic Community.

Joanne Federico Malloy, a member of the Union Catholic Class of 1974, was a dedicated nurse for 30 years.  This scholarship was founded in 2011 by her fellow classmates.

Established in 2012, this scholarship was founded in Joseph's memory by his daughter, Susan Bischoff, mother of James Bischoff '01 and is awarded to a senior who intends to study at Rutgers University.

2023 Recipient – Peter Ziegler ‘23
2022 Recipient – Colin Whiteside ‘22
2021 Recipient – Abeenaele Demesyeaux '21
2020 Recipient – Issac Holmes ‘20
2019 Recipient – Kiana Salmon ‘19
2018 Recipient - Katie Pinckney ‘18
2017 Recipient - Emma Palacio ‘17
2016 Recipient - Cassandra Gonzalez ‘16
2015 Recipient - Ellie Cheung '15
2014 Recipient - Brandon Stephen '14
2013 Recipient - Natasha Andre '13
2012 Recipient - Christian Fernandez '12

Established in 2009 by Mary Beth and Jake Cregg, this scholarship is in honor of Sara J. Will, Mary Beth's mother, who had a great respect for education.

2023 Recipient - Angela Navroski '26
2022 Recipient - Jadyn Horlacher '25
2021 Recipient - Josefine Patrone '23
2020 Recipient - Zachary Patrone '23
2019 Recipient - Michael Palacio '22
2018 Recipient - Elisabeth Pickel '21
2017 Recipient - Quadry Adams '20
2016 Recipient - PrimaDoris Ngumah '29

This scholarship was established in 2010 in memory of Sister Eloise, who passed away in 2009. Sister served the UC Community as a freshman guidance counselor from 2000-2009.

2023 Recipient – Victoria Fraga ‘25
2022 Recipient – Alexis Roth ‘24
2021 Recipient – Anaya Register ‘24
2020 Recipient – Julianna Bara ‘23
2019 Recipient – Jada Mia Puryear ‘22
2018 Recipient - Catherine McGovern ‘21
2017 Recipient - Caitlin Roder ‘20
2016 Recipient - Melissa Lettieri ‘19
2015 Recipient - Gabrielle Welle '18
2014 Recipient - Kimmy Paltz '17

Established in 2010 in memory of Sister Regina, who served Union Catholic from 1981 to 1994, this scholarship is awarded to a rising senior who loves reading, writing and language and answers the call to service at UC, home or in the community.

2023 Recipient – Alexis Roth ‘24
2022 Recipient – Casey Arias ‘23
2021 Recipient – Juliana Rama ‘22
2020 Recipient – Isabella Allen ‘21
2019 Recipient – Kacey Brennan ‘20
2018 Recipient - Shaun Keating ‘19
2017 Recipient - Mia Bennett-Jones ‘18
2016 Recipient - Hannah Toner ‘17
2015 Recipient - Alice Polini '16
2014 Recipient - Elise Morano '15

The scholarship was established in 2018 by Union Catholic’s Class of ’68 in honor of their 50th
Graduation Anniversary. The recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School
and Union Catholic Girls High School (which merged in 1980 into the co-educational Union Catholic that we know today).

2023 Recipient – Chloe Morett ‘25
2022 Recipient - Tristan Mayers ‘24
2021 Recipient – Matthew Schutz ‘23
2020 Recipient – Jada Puryear ‘22

The Class of ‘69 chose to celebrate their 50th Graduation Anniversary by establishing a scholarship. The
recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High
School.

2023 Recipient – Aalilyah Corso ‘25
2022 Recipient – Sophia Sorge ‘24
2021 Recipient – Owen Pickel ‘23

This scholarship was established in 2020 to honor the Class of ‘70 as they celebrate their 50th Graduation Anniversary. The recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High School.

2023 Recipients – Zoe Psathas ‘25, Ohemaa Koranteng ’25
2022 Recipient – Emily Haake ‘24
2021 Recipient – Casey Arias ‘23

This scholarship was established in 2021 to honor the Class of ‘71 as they celebrate their 50th Graduation Anniversary. The recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and
pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union
Catholic Girls High School.

Scholarship funding in progress

The Class of ‘72 chose to celebrate their 50th Graduation Anniversary by establishing a scholarship. The recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High School.

The Class of ‘73 chose to celebrate their 50th Graduation Anniversary by establishing a scholarship. The recipient must be working to his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High
School.

This scholarship was established in 2021 to honor the Class of ‘74. The recipient must be working to
his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High School.

Scholarship funding in progress

This scholarship was established in 2021 to honor the Class of ‘79. The recipient must be working to
his/her fullest potential and exhibit the initiative and pioneering spirit that characterized the early classes of Union Catholic Boys High School and Union Catholic Girls High School.

Scholarship funding in progress

Bette Schnitzer, “S”, was an integral part of the Union Catholic Community for over 35 years. Bette, “S” served at Union Catholic as athletic director, chair of the physical education department, teacher and coach. She was passionate about athletics and coaching: and more importantly, she was full of pep and welcomed and loved everyone, making sure everyone felt included. This scholarship is awarded to an
industrious junior who participates in athletics (athlete or manager), wants to pursue a career in coaching, wants to become a physical education/health teacher or has interest in the business of athletics (Livestream, social media, etc.).

2023 Recipient – Peyton Hollis ‘24

Established in 2017 by former players and supporters of the Union Catholic Girls Basketball program, The Coach Kathy Matthews Endowed Scholarship recognizes Coach Matthews’ historic 700th career victory. The scholarship is intended to highlight the values of discipline and work-ethic that are
hallmarks of her teaching and coaching style. This scholarship salutes the legacy that Coach Matthews created in her illustrious career at UC, while providing support to a current UC student, and helping to ensure the financial future for Union Catholic.

Scholarship funding in progress

Elizabeth and Robert were people of great faith and they raised their family with the same faith.
Elizabeth Carolan was a nurse for over forty years and fulfilled her calling by taking care of others and making a lasting difference in their lives. Established in 2013 by the D'Antico and Carolan families, this scholarship honors Elizabeth and Robert, grandparents of Michael D'Antico '13.

2023 Recipient - Sharon Machado '23, Caroline Parker '23
2022 Recipient – Jemima Okoh ’22, Meghan Schirm ‘22
2021 Recipients – Michele Noesner ’21, Emily Scott ‘21
2020 Recipients – Kyra Eason ’20, Christopher Robateau ‘20
2019 Recipients – Lauren Power ’19, Chloe John ‘19
2018 Recipients - Lucas Cloppse '18, Jillian Hamilton '18
2017 Recipients - Chloe Ramirez ’17, Thomas Nucatola ‘17
2016 Recipients - Omotola Emmanuel ’16, Karan Patel ‘16
2015 Recipients - Tonna Obaze '15, Ellie Cheung '15
2014 Recipients - Andrea Mojica '14, Daniel Sheldon '14

Established in 2015, The Hall of Fame Endowed Scholarship Fund offers Hall of Fame inductees and all
members a meaningful way to give back to Union Catholic.

2023 Recipient – Emma Muir ‘25
2022 Recipient – Riley Ramirez ‘24
2021 Recipient – Kaleigh Gunsiorowski ‘23
2020 Recipient – Michael Palacio ‘20

Kathryn M. Schurtz ’01 recognized that a complete high school experience meant far more than the academic success she worked hard to attain at Union Catholic. Kate discovered her gifts and grew her talents as a member of the UC Performing Arts Company, Service Club, French Club, Environmental Club, yearbook staff and as manager of the Girls Soccer team. She attended George Washington University and earned her MBA from the University of Notre Dame. At the time she tragically passed away, Kate was Head of Platform Partnerships for Oracle Data Cloud. This scholarship was established by her family to honor Kate’s remarkable legacy.

2023 Recipient – Kristen Valendo ‘24
2022 Recipient – Erini Dagiantis ‘23
2021 Recipient – Madison Duca ‘22
2020 Recipient – Madeline Gunsiorowski ‘21

Jordan C. Jimerson graduated from Union Catholic in 2014 and subsequently earned degrees from both Rutgers and Caldwell Universities. He tragically and prematurely passed away in January 2022 at the age of 25 years old. Jordan was a true scholar and an amazing athlete. He earned his way onto the Honor Roll every semester. While at Union Catholic, Jordan Equally excelled in track and field, in which he received numerous awards, including All-American. More importantly, Jordan was a tremendous teammate who was positive, supportive, extremely energetic, and always had a welcoming smile on his face. This scholarship is awarded to a senior who is a track and field athlete that overwhelmingly demonstrates a love for life and “live Like JJ” spirit!

2023 Recipient – Caudell Cajuste ‘23

Livia Kelemen was responsible for the Our Lady of Grace statue in the Memorial Walkway on the front lawn of Union Catholic. The Kelemen Scholarship is awarded to two seniors, who will attend four-year Catholic colleges or universities.

2023 Recipients – Gabriella Mouris ’23, Bryan Tucker ‘23
2022 Recipients – Page Devanney ’22, Winter Ramo-Bush ‘22
2021 Recipients – Danielle Coyne ’21, Thomas Armstrong ‘21
2020 Recipients – Gabriella Velona ’20, Hunter Lee ‘20
2019 Recipients – Angelia DelNegro ’19, Thomas Jaworski ‘19
2018 Recipients - Kevin Degnan ’18, Mackenzie Fuhrmann ‘18
2017 Recipients - Paul Armento ’17, Alyssa Chin ‘17

Established in 2015 by Mary J. Cullinane ’86 (Faculty 1991-1999) in loving memory of her mom,
Margaret O’Donnell Cullinane, this scholarship provides a financial award to a hard-working student
whose grandparents provide tuition assistance.

2023 Recipient –Gabriel Barnes ‘26
2022 Recipient – Christina Doria ‘23
2020 Recipient – Christina Doria ‘23
2017 Recipient – Caroline Bart ‘19
2016 Recipient – David Saggio ‘19

The Mr. UC Pageant is a highlight of the culture of the Union Catholic Community. Since the pageant’s inception, students have been crowned who exemplify leadership and the core values of Union Catholic. This scholarship honors a junior who exemplifies school spirit in many different ways at Union Catholic and makes a constant, noticeable difference in the school community. This scholarship was initiated by the 2022 Mr. UC Pageant Contestants.

2023 Recipient – Jacob Nieczypor ‘24
2022 Recipient – Matthew Schutz ‘23

Established in 2013 by Karen Occhipinti O'Keefe '80 and her sisters, Nancy Occhipinti Noe '81
and Lauren Occhipinti Koppel '84, in loving memory of their mother, Nancy, this scholarship is
awarded to a graduate of St. John the Apostle School, Clark, NJ who attends Union Catholic.

2023 Recipient – Karina Elias ’27, Honorable Mention – Ethan Pierre-Philippe ‘27
2022 Recipient – Danielle Scaturro ‘26
2021 Recipient – Aaliyah Corso ‘25
2020 Recipient – Andrew Dohn ‘24
2019 Recipient – Christina Doria ‘23
2018 Recipient - Annie Hartnett ‘22
2017 Recipient - Kaitlyn Dohn ‘21
2016 Recipient - Olivia Szyszkiewicz ‘20
2015 Recipient - Patrick Hartnett '19
2014 Recipient - Lucas Cloppse '18
2013 Recipient - Stephanie Eastman '17

Sister Ann Sullivan was a valued member of the Union Catholic Community for over 29 years. She was a school counselor and the student council moderator. She added events to Freshman Field Day, assisted with Christmas Semi Formal, initiated the in-school homeroom student council meeting, and created one of Union Catholic’s greatest events, Mr. UC. This scholarship, in the amount of $500, will be awarded to a freshman during the freshman/sophomore awards ceremony to assist with their sophomore year tuition.

2023 Recipient – Courtney Gregory ‘26

Established in 2015, on the anniversary of her 35 years of service as Principal of Union Catholic, this scholarship fulfilled a personal dream of Sister Percylee’s to support an industrious freshman who is
determined to attend a Catholic high school and is thriving in UC’s faith-filled environment.

2023 Recipient – Ella Solorzano ‘26
2022 Recipient – Sophia Gallego ‘25
2021 Recipient – Noelia Gomez ’24, Alexis Malec-Neuberger ’24, Kristen Valendo ‘24
2020 Recipient – Erini Dagiantis ‘23                                                          2019 Recipient – Nadine Rouba ‘22
2018 Recipient - Caroline Morgan ‘21
2017 Recipient - Gia Collucci ‘20
2016 Recipient - Audrey Davis ‘19

The Kernen Family Director of Basketball Operations Endowed Scholarship was created in 2021 by Joe and Penelope Kernen, in honor of their son, Scott ’21, who enjoyed being part of the Varsity Boys Basketball Team while here at Union Catholic and played an integral role in the success of the team. This scholarship is awarded to a male who is passionate about basketball, lives the Core Values of Union Catholic, and is in good academic standing.

Matthew M. Benavitch was the father of two Union Catholic graduates: Michael Benavitch ’93 and Kristen Benavitch ’94. Before Matthew’s passing in September 2020, he lived a life of service. Matthew served his country as a member of the Marine Corps. He enlisted at the age of 18 and was stationed overseas during the start of the Vietnam War. He then returned home to begin a career as a police officer in Elizabeth, New Jersey. In his thirty years of service to the police department, Matthew rose to the rank of Captain. Matthew was educated in the Catholic tradition having attended Holy Rosary and St. Mary’s in Elizabeth. He was passionate about education and believed in continuous learning throughout his life. This scholarship is awarded to a junior who is passionate about law enforcement, first responder, military, and/or legal communities and was established by his daughter Kristen to honor Matthew’s legacy and life’s work.

Mr. Peter Chemidlin and Mrs. Darraugh Valli created the Fred J. Chemidlin Memorial Scholarship to honor Fred's dedication to the entrepreneurial spirit, faithful strength, and strong community involvement.

2023 Recipient - Emily Haake ‘24
2022 Recipient – Christian Townsell ‘23
2021 Recipient – Emme Haddad ‘22
2020 Recipient – Thomas Armstrong ‘21

Past UC parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Esposito (Susan '96, Tim '98, Matt '03), believe there is nothing more important than education, and a good education begins with excellent teachers.  It is their hope that this scholarship will enable a Union Catholic student to achieve his or her goal of becoming an excellent teacher.

2023 Recipient – Caitlin Farago ‘23
2022 Recipient – Christina DeLucca ‘22
2021 Recipient – Christopher Falco ‘21
2020 Recipient – Cara Leegan ‘20
2019 Recipient – Ashley Pangan ‘19

Giuliana Velona was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Velona and sister to Nicole '14, Robert '17 and Gabriella '20.  She passed away in November 2014 at the age of eight.  Mr. and Mrs. Velona created the Giuliana Velona Memorial Scholarship in memory of their daughter.

2023 Recipient – Delaney Farrell ’25, Matthew Sidun ‘25
2022 Recipient – Alexander Saldana ‘24
2021 Recipient – Christina Doria ‘23
2020 Recipient – Emme Haddad ‘22
2019 Recipient – Danielle Cullinan ‘21
2018 Recipient - CaMai Jones ‘20
2017 Recipients - Carl-Isaac Opont ’17, Jared Ware ‘19
2016 Recipient – Mia Bennett-Jones ‘18

Jim Lambert served the Union Catholic Community as a baseball coach, faculty member, official, supervisor, and a friend. He was a part of Union Catholic since 1992 and was known for collecting and wearing his UC gear.  This scholarship is awarded to a freshman, sophomore, or junior who either: is a resident of Plainfield, graduated from Holy Trinity in Westfield, a member of the baseball team, a member of the CRAYON Club, or has participated in the Success Program.

2023 Recipients – Jamielynn Hamilton ’24, Ryan Bevensee ’24, Paul Shyposh ’25

Gary Luciano was a former Linden councilman and had a lifelong service commitment as a member of the Knights of Columbus. Gary served over 50 years as an active member of Regina Pacis Council 4066. He served as past grand knight, past district deputy, past faithful navigator, and past president of the Essex County Federation. He was always passionate about Catholic education, graduating from Essex Catholic High School and deciding to send both of his children to Union Catholic. His daughter, Nicole, is a graduate from the class of 1996 and his son, David, is a graduate from the class of 1999. David returned to Union Catholic in 2004 as a faculty member and currently serves as Athletic Director.

2023 Recipient – Nicholas Doll ‘26
2022 Recipient – Alexis Roth ‘24
2021 Recipient – Christina Doria ‘23

Joanne Federico Malloy, a member of the Union Catholic Class of 1974, was a dedicated nurse for 30 years.  This scholarship was founded in 2011 by her fellow classmates.

2023 Recipient – Julianna Bara ‘23
2022 Recipient – Jordyn Dabney ‘22
2021 Recipient – Madeline Gunsiorowski ‘21
2020 Recipient – Matthew Kelly ‘20
2019 Recipient – Olivia Welham ‘19
2018 Recipient - Megan Rodriguez ‘18
2017 Recipient - Rose Petrick ‘17
2016 Recipient - Amando Grieco ‘16
2015 Recipient - Tonna Obaze '15
2014 Recipient - Jess Herren '14
2013 Recipient - Natasha Andre '13
2012 Recipient - Anna-Teresa Mutuc '12

Johanna Wilk was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and loved children of all ages.  The goal of the Johanna Wilk Foundation is to keep her spirit alive and to recognize, honor, and foster a spirit similar to hers in scholarship recipients.

2023 Recipient – Kaitlyn McKnight ’23, Shaan Trehan ‘23
2022 Recipients – Mikaila Farrell ‘22, Saige Wilson ‘22
2021 Recipients – Terrell Henderson ’21, Adriana Kwiatkowski ‘21                          2020 Recipients – Andrea Vira ‘20, Matthew Kelly ‘20
2019 Recipients – Audrey Davis ‘19, Karen Degnan ‘19
2018 Recipients - Kevin Degnan ‘18, Emily Farrell ‘18
2017 Recipients – Ignatius Hazelwood ‘17, Alexis Marta ‘17
2016 Recipients - Cassandra Gonzalez ‘16, Bailey Ramirez ‘16
2015 Recipients - Eryk Luczynski ‘15, Katherine Sheldon ‘15

Former faculty member, Mr. Bruce Zehnle, who served Union Catholic from 1968 to 2003, gave this grant.  This grant is awarded to a student who is involved in a UC Spanish Club, who volunteers and provides community service outside of UC, or who provides community service and volunteers in predominantly Spanish speaking areas.

2017 recipient – Michelle Hunter ‘17
2015 Recipient - Elise Morano ‘15

Pat and Dick were parents to nine Catholic school educated children and staunch supports of Catholic schools.  A 64-year union member of Steamfitters, Local 475, Dick was proud to work so hard as to provide their children with a faith-based education.  Both Pat and Dick devoted their lives to giving back to Catholic education as volunteers and advocates.  Five of their nine children attended Union Catholic, as well as four grandchildren.  They are the parents and grandparents of two Union Catholic faculty members.

2023 Recipient – Andrew Dohn ‘24
2022 Recipient – Samantha Deering ‘23
2021 Recipient – Allison Julve ‘22

Patrick and Anna May Yorke had seven children that all graduated from Catholic high school.  They understood the necessity to have a strong successful, faith-filled education.  Patrick and Anna May's grandchildren, Bridget Yorke '15 and Patrick Yorke '19, graduated with a strong sense of confidence and respect for their community.

2023 Recipient – Jane Howlett ‘23
2022 Recipient – Katharine Hall ‘22
2021 Recipient – Liam Robb ‘21
2020 Recipient – John Wodzinski ‘20

The Peter J. Tierney Memorial Scholarship was established in 2018 by his Union Catholic basketball players of 1972-1974, upon whom he left an indelible mark.  Each year, a Union Catholic junior, who models Peter's attributes of leadership, friendship, passionate pursuit of one's interest, and caring for others, will be awarded the scholarship.

2023 Recipient – Isabella Capati ’24, Alexander Saldana ‘24
2022 Recipient – Julianna Bara ‘23, Michael Mahaffey ‘23
2021 Recipient – Mikaila Farrell ’22, Olivia Magliacano ’22, Brian Touma ‘22
2020 Recipient – Elijah Barlow ‘21
2019 Recipient – Liam Bennett ‘20

Joan and Robert Wade dedicated their lives to their eight children and held education paramount. Their children and grandchildren, Bridget Yorke, class of 2015, and Patrick Yorke, class of 2019, established this scholarship to honor Joan and Robert’s commitment to family and education

2023 Recipient – Marisa Sblendorio ‘23
2022 Recipient – Kylee Watkins ‘22
2021 Recipient – Rocco Mariani ‘21
2020 Recipient – Colin McKenna ‘20

The Success My Way Scholarship was founded by Mr. and Mrs. Ritchey in 2018 to recognize students like their daughter, Alexsandra (Alex) Ritchey '17.  Alex took advantage of the opportunity UC offers through the Foundations Program and spread her wings in the process.

2023 Recipient – Caroline Evans ’23, James Jules ‘23
2022 Recipient – Madison Duca ’22, Nicholas Marelli ‘22
2021 Recipient – Daniel Cavill ‘21
2020 Recipient – Isabella Gray ‘20
2019 Recipient – Patrick Yorke ‘19
2018 Recipient - Daniel Shapiro ‘18

The Susan Satriano Memorial Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors who will attend college and have a parent who has passed away of cancer or have a parent presently battling cancer.

2023 Recipient – Molly Brennan, Julianna Carvalho, Christina Doria, Samantha Dreher, Mallory
Fella, Erik Fraga, Adam Gross, Michaela Hernandez, Emerson McKindra, Angelica Valdez,
Peter Ziegler – all Class of '23
2022 Recipient – Kaila Barnes, Alejandra Gamboa, Michael Palacio, Ethan Scariati, Kylee
Watkins, Saige Wilson – all Class of ‘22
2021 Recipient - Adriana Kwiatkowski, Patrick Lambe, Christina Layden, Rocco Mariani, Sam
Roth, Natalya Tasso, Elizabeth Walch, Bradley Young – all Class of ‘21
2020 Recipients – Christopher Buerle, Sihan Cao, Kyra Eason, John McElroy, Sarah Ohnmeiss,
Matthew Tracey, Michael Valentin – all Class of ‘20
2019 Recipients - Matt D'Aleo, Myaya Morton, James McElroy, Nicholas Ali, Megan Sloane,
Frederick Lampley, Katelyn Hughes, Khamil Evans – all Class of ‘19
2018 Recipients - Anonymous, Joseph Stulec, Colleen Falconer, Destinee Monasterio, Andrew
LaManna, Samara Prez, Brian Malar, Lucas Danchisko, Phillip Derisse – all Class of ‘18
2017 Recipients - Vicki Pepper, Alexa Doria, Deanna Vagueiro, Nick Sepe, Sophia Tangreti,
Anna Strappe, Kelsie Douglas, Johnnie Antonucci, Madeline Buerle, Ben Weaver and Thomas
Greey, all Class of ‘17
2016 Recipients - Christina Rohal, Patrick Sesta, Ashley Knudsen, Robert Sloane, Devon
Mahoney, Julia Nowicki, Haleigh Rojek, Sienna Vacca – all Class of ‘16
2015 Recipient - Susan Wojcik '18
2014 Recipient - Nicholas Tripodi '17
2013 Recipient - Allison McGee '16
2012 Recipient - Eryk Luczynski '15
2011 Recipient - Lila Majano '14
2010 Recipient - Arnold Majano '13
2009 Recipient - Juliette Monroy '12

In an effort to encourage female students at Union Catholic to pursue their interests, utilize their talents and explore career opportunities in STEM (Science, Techonology, Engineering, Math), Mr. and Mrs. Ariel Jacinto (parents of Jillian '20), founded the UC Girls in STEM Scholarship.

2023 Recipient – Madeline Christopher ‘23
2022 Recipient- Tenajah Eldridge ‘23
2021 Recipient – Quqi Zhang ‘21
2020 Recipient – Gabriella Pollard ‘20
2019 Recipient - Manya Trehan ‘19

This scholarship was established in memory of Kevin Apuzzio ’02, who was a firefighter with the East Franklin Volunteer Fire Department. Kevin gave his life in the line of duty while attempting to save the
life of another. This scholarship was founded by family and friends in his memory.

2023 Recipient – Michelle Ozmanic ‘23
2022 Recipient – Ayomide Egbejoda ‘22
2021 Recipient – Gillian Caldas ‘21
2020 Recipient – Katelyn Valendo ‘20

Adeline Collins, was great-grandmother to Madison Duca ‘22 and Brooke Duca ‘26. Adeline's deep faith was the cornerstone of her 98 years. She immigrated from Quebec, Canada upon her marriage, learned a new language & became a citizen. Widowed after 18 years of marriage she returned to the workforce and raised her 3 young children. She overcame a cancer diagnosis in her 60's due largely to her deep faith. Her love of family, which included 5 grandchildren & 3 great-grandchildren was the bed-rock of her life. As a born again Christian she lived her life prayerfully & generously helping anyone that needed her prayers and encouragement. This scholarship is awarded to a junior who is part of Peer Ministry, a solid academic student, and who lives by the UC Core Values.

2023 Recipient – Benjamin Cook ‘24
2022 Recipient – Marisa Sblendorio ‘23

Founded in honor of Adele and Gene Gatens by their children Adele ‘77, Catherine ‘71, Christopher, Gene, John ‘81, Patricia ‘79 and Terrence ’84, this scholarship is awarded to one graduating eighth grader from St. Bartholomew the Apostle School in Scotch Plains, NJ, who is an example of Christian charity for classmates, teachers, family and community.

2023 Recipient – Kendell Philistin ‘27
2022 Recipient – Maria Gialanella ‘26
2021 Recipient – Jocelyn Griffith ‘25
2020 Recipient – Brianna Cabrera ‘24

This scholarship was established by the Union Catholic Volleyball program, both past and present, in memory of former player and member of the class of 2018, Bella Giacobbe, who passed away on September 24, 2022.  This scholarship will be awarded to a student who is either a student ambassador, resident of Rahway, or a member of the volleyball team, who embodies community service, friendship,
compassion and kindness. #bellakind

2023 Recipient – Hannah Buniak ‘26

This scholarship was established in memory of Eldon Hammeke by his wife, Grace, and is supported by the Knights of Columbus Summit Council #783, of which Mr. Hammeke was an active member.

2023 Recipient – Patrick Korner ‘26
2022 Recipient – Julia Landicho ‘25
2021 Recipient – Josefine Allen ‘24
2020 Recipient - Andrew Palacio '20
2019 Recipient – Michael Mahaffey ‘23
2018 Recipient – Brian Touma ‘22
2017 Recipient - Catherine McGovern ‘21
2016 Recipient - Andrew Palacio ‘20
2015 Recipient - Charlize Colon '19
2014 Recipient - Kevin Degnan '18
2013 Recipient - Katrina Springer '17
2012 Recipient - Nicholas Birritteri '16
2011 Recipient - Danielle Cusick '15
2010 Recipient - Arthur Wright IV '14
2009 Recipient - Brian Cautillo '13
2008 Recipient - David Schanz '12
2007 Recipient - Sarah Cunha '11
2006 Recipient - Robert Magella '10
2005 Recipient - Magan Mauro '09
2004 Recipient - Marissa Rondinone '08
2003 Recipient - Edward Sagendorf '07
2002 Recipient - Carlos da Costa '06
2001 Recipient - Dana Kinney '05
2000 Recipient - Justina Marcussen '04
1999 Recipient - Angela Guilliano '03

This scholarship was initiated in 2023 by April Jordan, the wife of Jassen D. Jordan Sr., and Marston Athletics, Inc., in memory of Jassen D. Jordan Sr. who passed away on December 17, 2022.   The recipients must be active in community service, impact their school or local community, and must possess a strong work ethic. 

2023 Recipients – Chimeziri Okeoma ’23, Riley Ramirez ’24, Gregory Viloria '26

When Janessa Mendoza, SMS '14 & UC '18, came to Union Catholic High School as a freshman, she was so happy with her decision that she wanted other Saint Matthew School students to join her for the same great UC experience. Last year, Janessa was joined by Jillian Jacinto, SMS '16 & UC '20, who helped Janessa raised funds and who will continue to lead Join Me @ UC. 

2021 Recipient – Tamia Marsh ‘25
2020 Recipient – Christian Townsell ‘23
2019 Recipient – Emma Seaward ‘22
2018 Recipient - Gregory Katchko ‘21
2017 Recipient - Jillian Jacinto ‘20

The Marston Athletic, Inc. Scholarship was established in 2022 by Peter Marston. The award goes to a student that has demonstrated leadership qualities in both their academic and athletic endeavors. This scholarship will be awarded to a student during the awards ceremony to assist with their next school year’s tuition.
2023 Recipient – Farouk Muntari ‘25

Kathryn McCormack was grandmother to Joseph Patikowski ‘08, Olivia Patikowski ‘22, and Sophia Patikowski ‘22.  Prior to her passing in August 2021, Kathryn's passion for gardening and teaching was a big part of her 102 years.  Her legacy still lives on through the Terra Nova Garden Club she started 71 years ago.  This scholarship is awarded to a junior who is active in the Environmental Club, has a passion for gardening, or has a desire to become a teacher.

2023 Recipient – Remberto Martinez ‘24

This scholarship is dedicated to the legacy of Pastor Lee Morant Sr. He was highly respected in the community and was a friend to all, stranger to none. He touched lives in a special way. Pastor Lee Morant, Sr. would have been honored to know this scholarship is made in his name and is going to a deserving child. This scholarship is an opportunity to make possible the extraordinary UC Experience for a student who wishes to be part of the UC community and needs financial assistance to do so.

2023 Recipient – Joshua Hutchinson ‘26
2022 Recipient – Avery Atezide ‘25
2021 Recipient – Dylan Williams ‘24
2020 Recipient - Caudell Cajuste ‘23

This scholarship was established in memory of Grace Pietropinto, who was the Director of Finance in the Office of Superintendent of Schools at the Archdiocese of Newark. She had a strong faithful connection to Union Catholic and consistently supported the students as they explored opportunities in STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. This scholarship will be awarded to a freshman who has strong interests in business and
mathematics.

2023 Recipient – Emma Kaminski ‘26
2022 Recipient – Chloe Morett ‘25

Garrett “Garry” was a loving husband, father, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Garry’s daughter, Jeanette, is a Union Catholic graduate from the class of 2009 and Garry’s wife, Karen, has been a member of Union Catholic’s Admissions Office since 2004. Garry retired from the City of Linden Fire
Department in 2011 after 20 years of service where he was a Firefighter/EMT and a 9-11 First Responder. His career as a Firefighter/EMT was his passion. Prior to his appointment with the Fire Department, Garry worked at the Municipal Garage for the City of Linden as an expert mechanic for 17 years, thereby
accumulating 37 years of service to his community. He was a "jack of all trades" and earned the title of "Mr. Fix-It". He enjoyed cooking delicious meals for his family and was always willing and able to help a friend or neighbor in need.  A proud UC Parent, Garry never missed a PAC performance, and was a great support for all his daughter’s endeavors.

2023 Recipient – Mateusz Worosz ‘24
2022 Recipient – Anna Diniz-Lonzetti ‘23
2021 Recipient – Courtney Lucius ‘22

The scholarship was established in 2022 through contributions from colleges and universities who attend the annual Union Catholic College Fair. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who will be attending a college or university in the fall. This scholarship supports deserving students who have demonstrated active engagement, initiative, and commitment to the college process.

2023 Recipients – Keida Pereyra ’23, Abinayan Ravichandran ‘23

The Union Catholic Annual Student Giving Challenge raises funds for the Student-to-Student Scholarship, which is awarded to an incoming freshman, who plans to make a positive difference as a member of the UC Community.

2023 Recipient – Joshua Etienne ‘25
2022 Recipient – Jola Strayhorn ‘25
2021 Recipient – Dylan Williams ‘24
2019 Recipient – Aidan Dursee ‘23
2018 Recipient – Esme Dorcellus ‘22
2017 Recipient - Lilyana Roque ‘21

This scholarship was initiated in 2023 by France Cortez in honor of her son, Byran Tucker ’23. The Bryan Tucker Scholarship is awarded to a current sophomore or junior who has expressed
interest in the Health Science field. The recipient must have a strong work ethic, perform well
academically and have a strong desire to succeed in life.

2023 Recipient – Navaeh Aaron ‘24

This scholarship was created in 2020. Mr. James Gregory, owner of Turn 2 Sports, is honoring a varsity athlete in good academic standing, who demonstrates sportsmanship, and possesses leadership qualities. This scholarship will be awarded at the end of each sports season.

2023 Fall Recipient – Leilani Gibson ’24 - Track
2023 Winter Recipient – Andrew Altobelli ’25 - Basketball
2023 Spring Recipient – Julia Landicho ’25 – Lacrosse
2022 Fall Recipient – Alexis Roth ’24 - Gymnastics
2022 Winter Recipient – Megan Falvey ’24 - Bowling
2022 Spring Recipient – Nicholas Kelly ’23 - Baseball
2021 Fall Recipient – Jahi Dillard ’22 - Soccer
2021 Winter Recipient – Myles Plummer ’22 - Track
2021 Spring Recipient – Julianna Hart ’24 - Softball
2020 Fall Recipients – Sarah Abood ’20, Madeline Abood ’20 - Tennis
2020 Winter Recipient – Sabrina Araujo ’21 - Basketball
2020 Spring Recipient – Christopher Tomalavage ’21 - Baseball

The scholarship is awarded to a freshman or sophomore who lives the Union Catholic Core
Values and upholds Union Catholic’s academic standards. This scholarship, will be awarded to a freshman or sophomore during the freshman/sophomore awards ceremony to assist with their next year’s tuition.

2023 Recipient – Jordan Mullaney ‘25

Neil Horne, Jr. had a passion for teaching the game of basketball. Coach Horne served as the Union Catholic Boys Varsity Basketball Coach from 1985-1988. In his first season, he led the team to the Watchung Conference Championship. In the 1986-87 season, Coach Horne led Union Catholic to one of the biggest upsets in New Jersey boys' basketball state championship history - described by a New Jersey journalist as "an upset of gargantuan proportions". Union Catholic defeated nationally-ranked CBA, 44-39. That Parochial A State Championship game upset remains the only time in New Jersey boys' basketball state championship history that a team then unranked in the Star Ledger's Top 20 defeated in the state finals a team that had been ranked Number 1 in New Jersey the entire season. Coach Horne passed away on July 4, 2024.

Francis "Skip" Downey was a strong believer in Catholic Education.  Skip and Joan, who were married for 72 years, raised six children providing a Catholic education for each of them.  His legacy is strongly reflected at Union Catholic: his children Mary '83 and Brian '86 Downey; grandchildren Brian '95 and Dan' 00 Korner and Nicole '04 and Casey '13 Hauck; and great-grandchildren Nathan '24 and Patrick '26 Korner.  Skip is also the father of Assistant Principal Noreen Andrews.  In loving memory of our dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather, this scholarship is dedicated to "Skip's Story".

 Kristin J. Kirchner '77 was an incredibly gifted athlete and the first 1,000-point scorer in Union Catholic Girls Basketball history.  Kris played for both the University of Maryland and Rutgers University, where she earned many awards and accolades, including Kodak All-American, Street & Smith All-American, AP All-American, and 1979 Women's Basketball World Champion.  Most notably, Kris was one of just 12 women chosen for the 1980 USA Olympic Basketball team.  Following college, and an overseas professional basketball career, Kris devoted herself to working with youth who need direction, encouragement and support, including those who spent time in Juvenile Detention facilities.  Established in 2023 by Kris' siblings, this scholarship is awarded to a current member of the Union Catholic Girls Basketball team (i.e. player, manager, etc.), who demonstrates leadership, has a sense of team spirit, and supports their teammates.

Owen Michael McCabe, grandfather of Emmy O’Hearn ‘26, passed away on February 5 th , 2023. Owen served in the US Coast Guard from 1965-1970. In 1971, he was hired as a Patrolman for the Westfield Police Department. Over his 26 plus year career, he served as Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and retired as Deputy Chief. Over his career he was awarded several commendations including Medal of Valor and Medal of Merit. Owen cherished his friendships, faith, and family. He dedicated his life to service for others, serving as a volunteer with various food banks and The American Legion. This scholarship is awarded to a Freshman or Sophomore who is passionate about athletics, specifically track and field (running) and lives the Core Values of Union Catholic.

The Picozzi Family Foundation was formed in 2007 to provide academic scholarships to talented young men and women from Union and Essex Counties and other surrounding communities. Scholarships are awarded to students attending college. The Foundation was formed to assist individuals to further their education.

The Westfield Council #1711 Knights of Columbus Scholarship supports Catholic education at the grassroots level. The recipient of this scholarship is a young man who is actively living out his faith and demonstrates leadership in serving others.

Andrew J. Altobelli is a member of the class of 2026. He excelled over his four years at Union
Catholic both in the classroom and on the basketball court. AJ was an instrumental part of
teams that won the State Championship, the Union County Championship, and the Watchung Conference Championship. AJ initiated this scholarship during his senior year to assist a current
student.

This scholarship is awarded to a Freshman, Sophomore, or Junior who is passionate about
Union Catholic, is hard working, and is in good academic standing. The AJ Altobelli Scholarship, in the amount of $2,500, will be awarded during the awards ceremony to assist with next year’s tuition.

*To execute the scholarship, the $2,500 donation must be made to Union Catholic by January 1
of each calendar year.