On October 28, 2013, Tri-County Scholarship Fund celebrated its 32nd annual awards dinner.  Considered by many present to be one of the best Tri-County dinners so far, it featured honorees Sr. Francis Raftery S.C., Walter and Irene Crum and John Parry.  Sr. Francis had recently completed a highly successful 16 year tenure as President of the College of St. Elizabeth in Convent Station, NJ.  Walter and Irene Crum, together, have more than 50 years of teaching young men at Oratory Prep in Summit, NJ.  John Parry is the CEO of Solix, Inc. in Parsippany, NJ based business process outsourcing provider. The highlight of the event is always the children of Tri-County, and they were there in abundance.  Some thirty high school students, all recipients of an annual $4,000.00 scholarship, introduced the night by singing God Bless America and leading the 400 guests in the Pledge of Allegiance.  Master of Ceremonies Steve Adubato took over from there, leading the night with his characteristic blend of passion and gentle humor.  “Sister, will you please sit down?” had the crowd in stitches as Steve asked an unsuspecting nun who was caught in conversation, to take her place.  Amid the laughter, the former Catholic school boy said: “I’m sorry, Sister: I just always wanted to say that to a nun!” Two students addressed the gathering:  Tecianna Ross, a senior at Montclair State pursuing a degree in Public Health with a minor in Nutrition and Pre-Med and Alessandra Veliz, a senior at De Paul Catholic High School.  Tecianna, a former Tri-County scholar, spoke eloquently of the plight of inner-city children and of the help she had received:  “There are many other kids out there that are in the same situation that I once was in.  Many of them have amazing potential that goes unnoticed because they have no other choice but to attend failing schools.  I strongly urge all of you to continue working on behalf of these students because the opportunity that is offered by this organization changed the trajectory of my life.”  Next,  Alessandra spoke of hope and promise:  “Your generosity not only inspires me to be different, but to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.  I want to come back to this dinner one day, not just as a former scholar, but I want to give back.  I want to ensure that the students after me get the opportunities that I got.  That is the level of commitment that your generosity has fostered in me.”  The dinner guests were deeply moved by the testimony of these two magnificent young women. In addition to the students, the honorees spoke movingly of their work with young people and also of how a great education was a key to their success not just in the workplace, but as human beings.  Sr. Francis received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Walter and Irene Crum, the Making a Difference Award and John Parry, the Hall of Fame Award. A novelty of the night, enjoyed by all, was a technology called Text-to-Pledge.  By texting messages and donations, much encouragement was given to the students, the honorees and the organization itself.  The texted donations ranged from $5.00 to $10,000.00.  In addition to the fun, excitement and warm regards spread around the room for all to see on big screens, an additional $117,000 in scholarship funds was raised during dinner.  This brought the total dinner come to $662,000.00, which will pay for more than three hundred scholarships for New Jersey youth next year. As people left the dinner, the sense of joy, fellowship and good cheer, coupled with a desire to be part of the solution, was shared by all. #gallery-2 { margin: auto; } #gallery-2 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 50%; } #gallery-2 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-2 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ To view more photos, go to http://www.cuppekphotography.com/tricountyscholarship2013. Photography by:

Press Release October 15, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND TO HONOR WALTER AND IRENE CRUM AT OCTOBER 28, 2013 AWARD DINNER Walter and Irene Crum, who together have committed more than 50 combined years to education, will be honored by the Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) at its 32nd Annual Awards Dinner on October 28, 2013.  In an interview with TCSF’s President Gregory Floyd, the Crums share their views on education and demonstrate why they are being honored for their commitment. Walter and Irene Crum have spent most of their careers teaching at Oratory Preparatory School in Summit, New Jersey.  Walter joined the faculty of Oratory after graduating from Farleigh Dickinson University in 1974.  For 35 years, he taught all levels of Chemistry and Physics (and even Health and Physical Education when needed).  For the past six years, Walter has served as Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Oratory, spearheading a $10 Million capital campaign designed to improve facilities and make more scholarship money available to needy students.  Walter also served as the Student Council Advisor for 25 years, moderated an early club ice hockey team, coached basketball and received the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award in 1994.  His annual ski trips around the world have become part of Oratory lore. Irene is also a Science teacher.  She came to Oratory after four years at Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains.  Mrs. Crum received a B.S. in Biology from St. Peter’s College in 1975, and completed her Comprehensive Science K-12 N.J. Certification in 1976.  She has taught Science, Math and Religion courses in her many years in education. Walter and Irene’s commitment to education isn’t limited to the classroom.  They have raised four sons, all of whom attended Oratory.  They are blessed with two granddaughters and a grandson, who they hope will one day enter the Oratory Class of 2026! “Tri-County is proud to honor Walter and Irene Crum for their many years of dedication to education and commitment to Tri-County’s mission to help bring quality education to our area’s neediest children,” said Gregory Floyd. The Interview In an online interview, Walter and Irene shared some of their wisdom gained over a combined 50 years of dedication to education as teachers and parents: Question:  Having spent many years personally involved in the education of young people, what do you believe are the most important goals in K-12 education? Walter and Irene:  “We believe the most important goals involved in a quality K-12 education are: Learning how to think Learning right from wrong Developing  a true moral compass Becoming responsible Knowing how to give 100% in whatever you do Providing an excellent academic experience while allowing for the full expression of faith and values.” Question:  How have you witnessed the difference that quality education can make in the life of a child? Walter and Irene:  “When a young person starts off life with a quality education, we have seen how doors open: to numerous career possibilities, to leadership roles in communities and corporations, to vocations in our Church and in a willingness to give back through service.  In the environment of an excellent school, we have seen so many students grow academically, spiritually and socially as they are given the freedom to develop their talents.” Question:  What are you most proud of in your tenure at Oratory Prep? Walter and Irene:  “Two things come to mind: 1 – that we were able to live out our vocation and still raise a family of four sons while continuing to work in Catholic schools; and 2 – that so many of our students were recognized by our state for their knowledge of science, and by other local academic competitions in religion, academic bowls and tournaments.” Question:  What attracted you to Tri-County? Walter and Irene:  “We first learned of Tri-County while Irene was teaching at St Vincent DePaul in Stirling.  We were very impressed by the student recipients we met at one of the TCSF dinners, and by those who supported them.” Question:  Finally, what words of encouragement would you give to TCSF recipients and their parents who struggle to overcome challenges to obtaining a quality education? Walter and Irene:  “As a parent, the best gift we could give our four sons was a faith based education.  We are happy to report that all four still go to church and are involved in their faith and in their communities.  Parents, the price is high and we also have to give 100%.  It took us 2 jobs to make it happen.  Reach out to relatives, look into scholarships or get a second job and pray for Divine guidance.  You CAN do it!  Recipients, get a job during the summer, read as much as you can, stay up late until your homework is done.  Get involved in school’s activities.  Work with your teachers, and pray for help from our Creator.  We are so happy to see you use your gifts and talents!” The 2013 Awards Dinner To hear more from Walter and Irene, please attend TCSF’s Annual Dinner on October 28, 2013 at the Hanover Marriott.  The TCSF Annual Dinner seeks to raise $800,000 to provide hundreds of scholarships for some of the area’s neediest children. Since its founding in 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children of Morris, Sussex and Passaic Counties.  The majority of these children come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. – For more information about TCSF or the Annual Awards Dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Press Release October 10, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org SISTER FRANCIS RAFTERY TO BE HONORED BY TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND AT OCTOBER 28, 2013 AWARD DINNER Sister Francis Raftery, the immediate past President of the College of St. Elizabeth and long-time leader in Catholic education, will be honored by the Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) at its 32nd Annual Awards Dinner on October 28, 2013.  In an interview with TCSF’s President Gregory Floyd, Sister Francis describes the transformative power of education and celebrates her involvement in TCSF over more than 30 years. Sister Francis Raftery, S.C. has spent a life-time as a Catholic Educator.  She has been an advocate for faith-based schools on the State and National levels.  The National Catholic Education Association named her Educator of the Year.  Sister Francis served as the Chairperson of the Education Department at the College of Saint Elizabeth and through her ministry was responsible for providing Professional Development for teachers, parents and school principals for the past 38 years.  Between 1997 and 2013, she served as the sixth President of the College of St. Elizabeth.  In June 2013, the Board of Trustees of the College of St. Elizabeth named her Distinguished President Emerita. Sister Francis has served on the Boards of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Saint Mary’s Hospital in Passaic, Saint Claire’s Health System in Denville, and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.  Presently, she is serving in the Office of Patient Relations at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Passaic. Sister Francis holds a doctorate in education from New York University and a master of arts in guidance and counseling from Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.  A native of Kearny, N.J., she entered the Sisters of Charity after earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood/elementary education from New Jersey City University.  She taught at the elementary and secondary levels before joining the College of St. Elizabeth. Sister Francis’ support for TCSF goes back to its very inception and spans more than 30 years.  “Tri-County is proud to honor Sr. Francis for her many years of dedication to education and her long term commitment to Tri-County’s mission to help bring quality education to our area’s neediest children,” said Gregory Floyd. The Interview In an online interview, Sr. Francis shares some of her wisdom gained in a life of dedication to education and service to the needs of the less fortunate: Question:  Having spent many years personally involved in the education of young people, what do you believe are the most important goals in K-12 education? Sr. Francis:  “Goals – the over-all goal of Catholic Education is transformative – that our children learn to Love God and one another.  In this context the process of education begins and continues to prepare them for life in the 21st century.” Question:  How have you witnessed the difference that quality education can make in the life of a child? Sr. Francis:  “A quality education moves the child through the transformative process systematically and developmentally.  Children who have this experience are self-confident, other centered, and ready to make a difference in the world.” Question:  What are you most proud of in your tenure at St. Elizabeth’s? Sr. Francis:  “My time at CSE was blessed with the shared leadership of a remarkable leadership team.  They in turn joined me in providing the environment for preparing our students to make a difference in the world.” Question:  What attracted you to Tri-County? Sr. Francis:  “I have been involved in Tri-County support since its inception.  The focus on welcoming and supporting children of great promise into values-based educational settings is an inspiration for all.” Question:  How did you learn about Tri-County? Sr. Francis:  “I learned about Tri County through the great leadership of Bishop Rodimer and Ed Hennessey.  I also saw the dedication of the members of the Board of Tri-County as they met at CSE each month to strategize and plan for the Scholarship Benefit each year.  They are a remarkable group dedicated to improving the quality of life for our students and their families.  With these resources the dedicated teachers and principals make it happen.” Question:  What would you say to encourage others to support TCSF? Sr. Francis:  “Come and see the wonders of TCSF – meet the students and the families.  As you do you will be compelled to support this wonderful work.” Question:  Finally, what words of encouragement would you give to TCSF recipients and their parents who struggle to overcome challenges to obtaining a quality education? Sr. Francis:  “Providence can provide, Providence did provide, and Providence will provide when good and generous people share in your hopes and dreams.” The 2013 Awards Dinner To hear more from Sr. Francis, please attend TCSF’s Annual Dinner on October 28, 2013 at the Hanover Marriott.  The TCSF Annual Dinner seeks to raise $800,000 to provide hundreds of scholarships for some of the area’s neediest children. Since its founding in 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children of Morris, Sussex and Passaic Counties.  The majority of these children come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. – For more information about TCSF or the Annual Awards Dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Tri-County Scholarship Fund will be hosting its 1st Women of Tri-County Luncheon on Friday, November 8, 2013 at 11:00AM at the Morris County Golf Club in Morristown.  On this festive occasion we will recognize five outstanding women who have been role models for the youth of our area through their vocations and service to others.   In our inaugural year we will honor: Barbara E. Kauffman Executive Vice President Newark Regional Business Partnership Katherine Nukk-Freeman Founding and Managing Partner Nukk-Freeman & Cerra, P.C. Lelia Pappas Principal Blessed Sacrament School Meg Paradise Talent Management & Leadership Executive Heather G. Suarez, Esq. Walder, Hayden & Brogan, P.A. Through this event, funds are raised to support the Freedom Scholars program which is offered to students throughout Northern and Central New Jersey.  The Freedom Scholars program is geared to high school students of financial need as well as high academic achievement and potential.  It is a four-way partnership between Tri-County, participating high schools, students and their parents or guardians.  It enables these students to choose values-centered, high performing private schools.  Tri-County awards scholarship slightly less than half the tuition cost and the participating school matches it dollar for dollar, thus leaving the family a minimal balance to pay towards the tuition cost.  This is a commitment for the 4 year tenure in high school. Please come and join us.  For more information please call 973-984-9600 or e-mail Minnie Simon at msimon@tcsfund.org. Click here for the invitation. Click here for the registration form. download film Fifty Shades Darker

Press Release September 30, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND TO HONOR JOHN PARRY John C. Parry, Chief Executive Officer of Solix, Inc. will be honored by the Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) at its 32nd Annual Awards Dinner on October 28, 2013.  In an interview with TCSF’s President Gregory Floyd, Mr. Parry explains why he shares TCSF’s belief that a quality education is the answer to many of the challenges facing inner city kids, shares his pride in helping to build a company that cares and encourages TCSF recipients to strive to achieve their full potential. Since 2004, John C. Parry has served as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Solix, Inc.  Parsippany-based Solix is a business process outsourcing provider for government, telecom, broadband, utility and healthcare organizations.  Under Parry’s leadership, Solix increased revenue by nearly 250% to $100 million and created hundreds of jobs in New Jersey.  Solix has not only grown as an industry leader, but also as a model for workplace best practices and commitment to its community. Mr. Parry’s career has spanned more than 40 years and includes serving as Executive Director of Program Operations at The National Exchange Carrier Association, Inc. (NECA), President of Bell Atlantic Network Systems and Vice President of the Bell Atlantic Global Systems Company (now Verizon).  He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War and had various assignments in Surface Warfare, Aviation, Logistics and Intelligence before retiring from the Navy Reserve as a Captain in 1990.  John and his wife Vicki have two daughters and six grandchildren. “Tri-County is proud to honor John Parry for his leadership, commitment to our community and support for our mission to help bring quality education to our area’s neediest children,” said Gregory Floyd.  “I thank John for allowing us to recognize him and for his willingness to help the Tri-County Scholarship Fund meet its goals,” added Mr. Floyd. The Interview In an online interview, Mr. Parry discussed some of the keys to Solix’ success, his affinity for TCSF’s mission and provided words of encouragement to Tri-County Scholarship Fund recipients: Question:  Solix has been recognized by many awards not only for business excellence and workplace best practices, but also for its commitment to the community, how do you foster the values that support those commitments? Parry:  “Solix has a strong internal value system that is driven by its employees.  We try to hire people who share our values.  It’s simply part of our corporate DNA.” Question:  Solix is committed to many charitable endeavors, including not only TCSF but also Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots and the American Cancer Society, how does it go about selecting charitable commitments? Parry:  “We pretty much leave that to our employees.  We listen to what they say and will support virtually any charitable organization our people bring to our attention.  We support volunteerism by our employees as well.  Education initiatives such as TCSF always are high on our employees’ lists.” Question:  What are you most proud of in your tenure at Solix? Parry:  “Since virtually all of Solix’ business involves helping needy entities such as schools and libraries through the E-Rate program or individuals and small businesses through Sandy Relief programs in NJ and NYC for example, I have to say that building a company that cares is my best contribution.  Every Solix employee knows that, at the end of each day, they have helped someone have a little better life.” Question:  What attracted you to Tri-County? Parry:  “I believe that a quality education is the answer to many of the challenges facing our inner city kids today.  Having attended St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark, I have seen the difference a great inner-city school can make in kids’ lives. Tri-County is a great way to reach a large number of children who can make a difference in NJ’s future.” Question:  How did you learn about Tri-County? Parry:  “We are a corporate resident of the area that is actively engaged in the community. Over the years, whether through our employees’ volunteer efforts or Solix’s direct involvement at an organizational level, we have learned about different charities at events we have sponsored or attended and Tri-County was one in particular whose work I had heard about and the difference it was making for young people in the area.” Question:  How have you witnessed the difference that quality education can make in the life of a child? Parry:  “I go back to my own personal experience at St. Benedict’s Prep both as a student and as someone that remained connected to it. It has been clear to me throughout my life that even if a young person has economic and environmental obstacles that could potentially impede progress, the sound academic foundation of a strong school, that also provides character development and guidance for issues beyond the classroom is invaluable.” Question:  What would you say to encourage others to support TCSF? Parry:  “When you support Tri-County, your contributions stay local and quickly make a positive impact on the lives of those who live in the community. In addition, Tri-County has a long record of successfully steering students to fine academic institutions and instilling the need to give back which continues the cycle of generosity and involvement.” Question:  Finally, what words of encouragement would you give to TCSF recipients and their parents who struggle to overcome challenges to obtaining a quality education? Parry:  “Do not let your circumstance define or defeat you. One of the greatest things we each possess is potential. It is what we do with it and how we drive ourselves to achieve it that matters.” The 2013 Awards Dinner To hear more from John C. Parry, please attend TCSF’s Annual Dinner on October 28, 2013 at the Hanover Marriott.  The TCSF Annual Dinner seeks to raise $800,000 to provide hundreds of scholarships for some of the area’s neediest children. Since its founding in 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children of Morris, Sussex and Passaic Counties.  The majority of these children come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. – For more information about TCSF or the Annual Awards Dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Solix, Inc. CEO John C. Parry’s Career & Commitment to Education to be Honored at Tri-County Scholarship Fund Gala Dinner October 28 Parsippany, NJ, – September 30, 2013 – In recognition of a career in business spanning more than 40 years, which has included a steadfast commitment to education, John C. Parry, Chief Executive Officer of Solix, Inc., will be honored by the Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) at its gala dinner on Monday, October 28th at the Hanover Marriot in Whippany, New Jersey. TSCF is a non-profit organization which provides financial aid to economically disadvantaged children in Morris, Passaic and Sussex counties of New Jersey so they can obtain a quality education through accredited private elementary and secondary schools. Parry, who recently announced he will be retiring at the end of the year, has served as CEO of the Parsippany-based company which provides eligibility determination, program administration and customer care services to government, telecommunications, broadband, utility and healthcare organizations; since 2004. Under Parry’s leadership, the company increased revenue by nearly 250% to $100 million and created hundreds of jobs in New Jersey. During that time, Solix has supported various educational institutions in the area such as TCSF and a scholarship at County College of Morris and has enabled a culture of volunteerism at the company by offering two paid community service days for employees. “Tri-County is proud to honor John Parry for his leadership, commitment to our community and support for our mission to help bring quality education to our area’s neediest children, “said Gregory Floyd, President of the TCSF. TCSF will also honor Sister Francis Raftery, S.C.; President emerita at the College of Saint Elizabeth in Convent Station, New Jersey and Mr. and Mrs. Walter and Irene Crum who have served a combined total of more than 50 years teaching young men at Oratory Preparatory School in Summit, New Jersey. Since its founding in 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20 million in scholarships to thousands of underprivileged children who primarily come from families that live at or below the poverty level. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to help attend schools from kindergarten to senior year of high school. Over the past two years, 96% of TCSF seniors have graduated to continue their education at colleges and universities including Notre Dame, Rutgers, Georgetown, UCLA and Boston College. “When you support TCSF, your contributions stay local and quickly make a positive impact on the lives of those who live in the community. In addition, the fund has a long record of successfully steering students to fine academic institutions and instilling the need to give back which continues the cycle of generosity and involvement,” Parry said. For more information about the dinner or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd, TCSF President, at 973-984-9600, email at gfloyd@tcsfund.org or visit www.tcsfund.org ### Media Contact: Gene King Corporate Communications Solix, Inc. 973-581-5320 gking@solixinc.com About Solix, Inc. Solix, Inc. is a leading provider of eligibility determination, qualification program management and customer care services to government, telecommunications, broadband, utility and healthcare organizations. For over a decade, we’ve delivered smart, cost-effective, compliant outsourcing solutions that leverage our unique technologies and consultative expertise. Our customers benefit from faster, more accurate applicant qualification, increased program efficiency and improved customer communications. For more information, please visit www.solixinc.com

Press Release September 6, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org AS STUDENTS HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL, TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS SAY “THANKS” AND REFLECT ON SUCCESS Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) Provides Peace Of Mind To Hundreds Of The Area’s Neediest Parents And Students, Many Of Whom Live Near Or Below The Poverty Level! With the help of a Tri-County Scholarship, more than 30,000 financially disadvantaged K-12th graders in Morris, Passaic and Sussex Counties have been able to attend a high quality private school of their choice and began the first step in attaining their educational dreams.  Without TCSF, many of these promising young students and their families would have been left to fend for themselves in often failing inner city public schools. Since 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children of Morris, Passaic and Sussex Counties.  The majority of these children come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. When given the opportunity, many Tri-County Scholarship recipeints have excelled.  This year, 99 percent of Tri-County’s high school seniors graduated, and 100 percent of that group have gone straight to college.  Among their accomplishments are full tuition scholarships to Cornell, Colgate, Notre Dame, Villanova and UCLA. Tri-County Success Stories Angeline Lopez, who grew up in Morris County and attended Morris Catholic High School with help from a Tri-County Scholarship, is now in her junior year at Villanova University, where she received a full scholarship.  Angeline is majoring in Accounting  and credits TCSF with fostering her early academic success.  “With the help of a Tri-County Scholarship, I was able to accomplish the first steps in attaining my educational dreams,” said Ms. Lopez. Another Tri-County Scholarship recipient, Mayra Cespedes, immigrated with her mother to the United States from Peru as a young child and spoke only Spanish.  But within a few months, Mayra was working hard to learn English and doing well in school.  With the help of a Tri-County Scholarship, Mayra excelled at Mary Help of Christians Academy in Science and was recently awarded a scholarship to attend UCLA this Fall as a pre-med major.  Mayra, who hopes one day to be an oncologist, credits TCSF, along with her family and teachers, with helping to “shape me into the person I am.  I owe it all to them,” said Mayra. As Angeline and Mayra head off to Villanova and UCLA, hundreds of K-12th grade students and their parents look ahead to another school year with the help of a Tri-County Scholarship. TCSF Annual Dinner Targets $800,000 For Scholarships TCSF hopes to meet its goal of providing more than $800,000 in financial assistance to hundreds of children in the upcoming school year through it’s annual awards dinner scheduled for October 28, 2012 at the Hanover Marriott.  This year’s award recipients are John C. Parry, Sr. Francis Raftery, S.C. and Walter and Irene Crum. TCSF’s President, Gregory Floyd, looks to the October 28th awards dinner as a crucial event in meeting Tri-County’s commitments to so many students and their parents.  “The annual awards dinner historically provides almost 2/3 of our scholarships each year,” said Floyd.  “We could not meet the needs of so many children and parents without the generous support of extraordinary local businesses, community leaders and civic-minded individuals who stand up with TCSF year after year to provide children with an opportunity for a high quality education.” Tri-County Scholarship Fund is a New Jersey-based not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, that is neither religious nor sectarian.  Through its scholarships, it has opened the door to a brighter future for thousands of New Jersey children. – For more information about TCSF or the Annual Awards Dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Press Release September 3, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org AS A NEW SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS, PATERSON PRINCIPAL LAUDS WORK OF TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND Lelia Pappas, Principal of Blessed Sacrament School in Paterson, sees how Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) makes a difference in the lives and education of many of the areas’ financially disadvantaged kids and their parents. For 60 years, Blessed Sacrament School in Paterson, NJ has offered parents a high quality, values based education.  But in recent years, Principal Lelia Pappas has seen it become more difficult for families of limited financial means to choose a school that they feel best fits their child’s unique learning needs.  According to Pappas, that’s where Tri-County has made a difference. For more than thirty years, Tri-County Scholarship Fund has fought to provide educational opportunities for financially disadvantaged K-12th grade children in Morris, Passaic and Sussex counties.  Since its founding in 1981, Tri-County has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children, the majority of whom come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. Tri-County’s aim is to change lives, one student at a time.  Tri-County’s President, Gregory Floyd, says that Tri-County’s mission focuses on providing scholarships to primary and secondary school education.  According to Mr. Floyd, “Tri-County aims to provide an essential opportunity for kids from all walks of life to attend a high quality private school in the formative years of grades K-12.” This year, as Ms. Pappas prepares Blessed Sacrament School to open its doors for another school year, she takes comfort in the opportunity that TCSF Scholarships provide to many of her students.  “I’m so proud of the work that Tri-County does and the difference it makes in the lives of our students and their parents,” said Ms. Pappas. This year alone, 500 children from Paterson and throughout Morris, Passaic and Sussex Counties will receive Tri-County scholarships and continue the journey to a quality education.  When given the opportunity, many Tri-County scholarship recipeints have excelled.  In the past two years, 96% of Tri-County seniors graduated from high school and nearly all of that group headed straight to college in the Fall.  Among their accomplishments are scholarships to UCLA and Rutgers University. The majority of scholarships are funded by donations raised through Tri-County’s Annual Awards Dinner.  “The Dinner is so important to Tri-County’s success,” said Ms. Pappas, “and it’s a wonderfully uplifting night because so many individuals and corporate sponsors come out to strongly support Tri-County’s mission.” This year’s Annual Awards Dinner is scheduled for October 28, 2013 at the Hanover Marriott.  TCSF hopes to meet its goal of raising more than $800,000 at the Dinner, which honors John C. Parry, CEO and board member of Solix, Inc., Sr. Francis Raftery, S.C., President Emerita of the College of St. Elizabeth and Walter and Irene Crum, who have served a combined total of more than 50 years teaching at Oratory Preparatory School. Tri-County Scholarship Fund is a New Jersey-based not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, that is neither religious nor sectarian.  Through its scholarships, it has opened the door to a brighter future for thousands of New Jersey children. For more information about TCSF or the Annual Awards Dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Press Release August 26, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org TRI-COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND ANNUAL DINNER:  STRIVING TO GIVE EVERY CHILD A CHANCE FOR A QUALITY EDUCATION Tim Duffy, Chairman of the Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) and a founding partner of the Coughlin Duffy law firm, makes his case for supporting what he calls “the best cause there is” and explains TCSF’s plans for breaking the cycle of poverty through education. “Financially disadvantaged inner city students and their parents want the same thing as everyone else – a chance at a quality education,” explains Duffy.  “Our mission at the Tri-County Scholarship Fund is to give them that chance to fly.” At TCSF’s upcoming Annual Dinner, to be held at the Hanover Marriott on October 28, Duffy hopes to raise $800,000 to provide hundreds of scholarships for some of the area’s neediest kids. Duffy’s law firm and many of its clients are proud supporters of Tri-County’s Annual Dinner.  “Each year I’m humbled by the generosity of so many local businesses and individuals who step up to meet the needs of our kids,” said Duffy.  “We are grateful for their generous support and invite all to stand up for this worthy cause.” To hear more about TCSF’s Annual Dinner from its supporters, including last year’s honoree J. Peter Simon, and to see some of TCSF’s scholarship recipients, click here http://www.tcsfund.org/stories/2012tcsfvideo/. Duffy has seen first hand how TCSF’s scholars respond when given the chance to excell.  This year, 99 percent of TCSF’s high school seniors graduated, and 100 percent of that group have gone straight to college.  Among their accomplishments are full tuition scholarships to Cornell, Colgate and Notre Dame.  “There is no greater feeling in the world than to see our kids respond and succeed,“ said Duffy. Since its founding in 1981, TCSF has provided more than $20,000,000 in scholarships to thousands of the neediest children of Morris, Passaic and Sussex Counties.  The majority of these children come from families that live at or below the poverty level.  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need and help students of all races, religions and backgrounds to attend private schools in grades K through twelve. For more information about the dinner, for interview opportunities or to make a donation, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 (gfloyd@tcsfund.org) or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Press Release August 23, 2013Contact:  Gregory Floyd                 973 984-9600                 gfloyd@tcsfund.org Tri-County Scholarship Fund Announces 32nd Annual Dinner Honoring John C. Parry, Sr. Francis Raftery, S.C. and Walter and Irene Crum Tri-County Scholarship Fund’s Annual Dinner seeks to raise $800,000 to provide scholarships for financially disadvantaged children in Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties. On October 28th, Tri-County Scholarship Fund (TCSF) will be celebrating 32 years of investing in the lives and education of the area’s neediest children at a dinner honoring four extraordinary individuals with awards for their commitment to children and education. John C. Parry is Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Solix, Inc., a business process outsourcing provider for government, telecom, broadband, utility and healthcare organizations.  Mr. Parry has more than 40 years of experience, including serving as President of Bell Atlantic Network Systems and Vice President of the Bell Atlantic Global Systems Company (now Verizon).  He served in Vietnam as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy and had various assignments in Surface Warfare, Aviation, Logistics and Intelligence before retiring from the Navy Reserve in 1990.  John and his wife Vicki have two daughters and six grandchildren. “Tri-County has a most important role in our community by providing students access to education and the opportunity to overcome challenges and realize their potential,” Parry said. “I’m very proud to be honored by an organization that performs such commendable work.” Sr. Francis Raftery, S.C. finished her term as the sixth President of the College of St. Elizabeth in June 2013.  Sister Francis holds a doctorate in education from New York University and a master of arts in guidance and counseling from Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.  A native of Kearny, N.J., she entered the Sisters of Charity after earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood/elementary education from New Jersey City University.  She taught at the elementary and secondary levels before joining the College of St. Elizabeth.  In June 2013, the College of St. Elizabeth Board of Trustees named Sister Francis President Emerita. “It is an honor to join all in investing in God’s children through the Tri-County Scholarship Fund.  God’s blessings on this sacred trust of providing a values-centered education for so many,” said Sister Francis Raftery. Walter and Irene Crum have served a combined total of more than 50 years teaching at Oratory Preparatory School in Summit, New Jersey.  Upon graduating from Farleigh Dickinson University in 1974, Walter joined the faculty of Oratory and taught all levels of Chemistry, Physics for 35 years.  For the past six years, Walter has served as Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Oratory.  Irene has taught Science, Math and Religion courses in her 20+ years in education.  The Crum’s have four sons who attended Oratory and three grandchildren. “We are very honored to receive this award and look forward to joining the Tri-County Scholarship Fund in enabling so many needy students to achieve a quality, values-centered education,” said Walter and Irene Crum. The October 28th dinner raises money to support TCSF’s goal of providing more than $800,000 in financial assistance to hundreds of children in the upcoming school year. The dinner will take place at the Hanover Marriott in Whippany, New Jersey with a reception at 6:00PM followed by dinner at 7:00PM. Over its 32-year history, TCSF has opened the door to a brighter future for thousands of children. The non-sectarian fund serves children of many races, religions and backgrounds, enabling them to attend private or parochial schools throughout northern New Jersey.  These scholarships, awarded solely on financial need for students in grades K-12 from Morris, Sussex and Passaic counties, give them the educational experience in grade school and high school that prepares them to move on and succeed in college. Tri-County Scholarship Fund has a lot more than 32 years to celebrate. In the past three years, Tri-County scholars have received full scholarships to Colgate, Cornell, Villanova, Notre Dame, Rutgers, Georgetown and UCLA, with many of the awardees  being the first in their families to go to college.  The majority of Tri-County scholarship recipients come from families that live at or below the poverty line. For more information about the dinner, or for interview opportunities with current and past scholarship recipients, Tri-County founders, trustees, dinner honorees and key members of the organization, please contact Gregory Floyd at (973) 984-9600 or gfloyd@tcsfund.org or visit Tri-County’s web site at http://www.tcsfund.org.

Mayra When Mayra immigrated with her mother to the United States from Peru 12 years ago she could only speak Spanish. “But within a few months”, her mother Sara said, “Mayra was working hard to learn English and doing well in school”. Mayra did so well at Mary Help of Christian’s Academy that she was recently awarded a scholarship to attend UCLA as a pre-med major. She discovered her calling is to become an oncologist after both grandparents died of cancer and she had the opportunity to intern in the Healthcare Connections enrichment program. “The program isn’t solely focused on studies but also the personal aspects of health care. I feel the profession of oncology could completely fulfill me.” “We try to provide an environment where students rise to academic success and are introduced to a variety of enriching programs and activities that give them a taste of future professions,” said Dominic Stimola, Vice Principal at Mary Help of Christians Academy. Another experience was The March Leadership Retreat in Stony Point, New York that Mayra said was a turning point in her life. “I learned a lot about faith and guidance. It was empowering” said Mayra. “This was a great investment by Tri-County” says Stimola about Mayra’s scholarships, “Mayra is very much a leader.” Mayra said her proudest achievement is being awarded her school’s prestigious Letterman Award for contributing the most hours to a range of school activities that benefit her school. “I’m so happy that I could bring it back to my school community…I couldn’t have done it without Mr. Stimola, my mother, Tri-County, and my teachers. I owe it all to them. They all helped shape me into the person I am.” Allison Allison knows the value of having a great mentor.  Her older sister, a Mary Help of Christians Academy alumni and a recent college grad now embarking on a successful career in business, was Allison’s guide in high school. “She became my role model”, says Allison, “she let me know what I needed to focus on.  Even in my freshman year, the main thing was preparing for college.” Allison took her sister’s advice to heart and invested the time to do well academically throughout her four years of high school. She received a junior MBA award, served as Secretary for Student Council, and did exceptionally well in each of her four honors courses as well as finding time to participate in dance club and year book. Her big sister consistently mentored her, providing her with savvy advice and keeping her on track for success.  “She told me when I had to start preparing for SATs and to research the colleges in depth.” This attention, along with Allison’s determination and drive has really paid off.  She was accepted to all 15 colleges she applied to and has decided to attend Rutgers, New Brunswick on a full scholarship in the fall, with the intent of focusing on business and engineering. Just as important for Allison and her family was the support provided by her school and Tri-County to help her gain values that will last a lifetime. “I’m very thankful to have all these people in my life to support me, including my sister and my mom.  I especially want to say thank you to Tri-County and everyone who supports them” said Allison, “without their help I wouldn’t have been able to attend private school and be fully prepared for the next stepping stone in my life.  I’m very lucky.” We have no doubt that Allison and Mayra, like so many other alumni, will become accomplished adults who will eventually “pay it forward” to future Tri-County scholarship students.