NJ Sharing Network, the non-profit, federally designated organ procurement organization responsible for the recovery of organs and tissue in the state, has awarded scholarships to nine high school graduates for their passion and dedication to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation.
Each student was individually presented with their scholarship award at the NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence during a private ceremony in the Landscape of Life Meditation Garden.
Tiffany Rolon-Lucas of Woodbridge, a 2020 graduate of Colonia High School, received a scholarship from the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund.
The Hearts for Emma Partner Fund was created to celebrate Emma Rothman’s heart transplant and focused on supporting high school education and donation advocacy efforts, according to information provided by NJ Sharing Network.
Tiffany was met with the biggest hurdle of her young life during her sophomore year when she was diagnosed with degenerative kidney disease. She fought for her life while on dialysis and returned to school with a catheter in her chest and a tube in her stomach. Thanks to a successful kidney transplant, Tiffany is living a healthy and active life, including competing in high school sports, according to the statement. She plans to attend Seton Hall University in the fall.
“We are delighted to provide scholarship support to these amazing students who have demonstrated a tremendous commitment to supporting our life-saving mission,” said Joe Roth, president and CEO of NJ Sharing Network, in a statement prepared by the organization. “We know they will continue to be strong leaders in educating others about donation and transplantation as they move forward to begin college in the fall.”
Applicants were measured on academic achievement, community and volunteer efforts, extracurricular activities and advocacy for organ and tissue donation. The application process was completed in June, and applications were reviewed by a committee of the NJ Sharing Network Foundation Board members and volunteers.
For more information about NJ Sharing Network’s scholarship programs, email scholarship@njsharingnetwork.org.
