Gala Raises $500,000 for Scholarships at Montclair State

The Montclair State University Foundation hosted its 2014 Annual Scholarship Dinner, at which Ralph LaRossa, the president and COO of PSE&G, was honored for his many civic contributions to Montclair State and public higher education in New Jersey.

The March 8 event raised a record-breaking $500,000 for student scholarships that will benefit and enable today’s students—and tomorrow’s leaders—to pursue and complete their studies at Montclair State.

Through the support provided by the Annual Scholarship Dinner and other donations, Montclair State University last year provided more than 1,800 students with the financial assistance they needed to pursue or complete their studies.

Montclair State alumnus, noted author, Star-Ledger columnist and Emmy award-winning broadcaster Steve Adubato served as master of ceremonies for the gala, which was co-chaired by Corporate Vice President and CIO of ADP Michael C. Capone and Senior Partner of Genova Burns Giantomasi Webster Angelo J. Genova.

At the event, President Susan A. Cole presented Ralph LaRossa with the University’s Carpe Diem Award in recognition of his tireless work on behalf of Montclair State and its students.

“Throughout his tenure on the Board of Trustees, and as its chairman, Ralph has provided astute business and strategic advice,” she said. “He has been a committed advocate for Montclair State’s mission to provide our determined students with affordable access to an exceptional education.”

Guests enjoyed a selection of numbers—including “I Only Have Eyes for You,” “We’re in the Money,” and “Lullaby of Broadway”—from the recent acclaimed student production of 42nd Street, which show director and Theatre and Dance professor Clay James noted is a place “where music, glamour, laughter, hopes and dreams can come alive.”   

Speaking at the dinner portion of the event, scholarship recipient Natalie Smith told guests that “attending this University has done more for me than you can imagine. I cannot say thank you enough. I am proud to be a Red Hawk.”

“Thanks to the efforts of the Montclair State University Foundation and co-chairs and committee members, the evening was a smashing success,” said President Cole. “The record-breaking contributions raised for student scholarships will allow Montclair State to continue to provide the opportunity of a high-quality education to young people with high aspirations and the will to succeed as students today—and as leaders tomorrow.”