Zaire Davidson grew up on the east side of Paterson, NJ surrounded by a loving family who instilled in him the values of faith, hard work, and empathy. His mother, a special education teacher, and his father, a skilled tradesman, worked diligently to support their family. Despite these efforts, Zaire faced significant challenges, particularly when his grandparents, who played a crucial role in his upbringing, developed cancer. The medical bills strained the family's financial situation even further. Amidst these trials, Zaire's determination never wavered. He excelled academically, driven by a sense of responsibility to leverage his education to help others. When he was accepted to DePaul Catholic High School, the hefty tuition fee seemed like an insurmountable obstacle. However, inspired by his pastor's sermon on perseverance, Zaire wrote to the Dean of Admissions, which led to his introduction to the Tri-County Scholarship Fund. Tri-County Scholarship Fund's support changed Zaire's life when he received the Freedom Scholarship, awarded to students who overcome significant hardships and excel academically. This scholarship not only made it possible for Zaire to attend DePaul but also provided ongoing support throughout his four years there. Zaire thrived in this nurturing environment, ultimately receiving acceptance letters from twelve colleges. Zaire chose to attend Pace University in NYC, where he majored in Marketing Management with a minor in Pre-Law and Economics. His academic journey didn't stop there; he recently completed his MBA and plans to attend law school. His goal is to become a lawyer who provides pro bono services to those lacking resources, embodying the very spirit of giving back that he experienced firsthand. I want to provide opportunity to young people and to help those who don’t have the ability to help themselves —as Tri-County Scholarship Fund did for me Today, Zaire continues to make a difference through internships that teach inner-city youth about civic engagement. His story exemplifies how Tri-County Scholarship Fund works to empower determined individuals to rise above their circumstances and create a ripple effect of positive change. As Zaire aspires to one day fund scholarships himself, his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that belief and support can have on a student's potential. "My story is full of people who wanted to see me to see me grow and become the man who I aspired to be. My family, church members, and Tri-County Scholarship Fund all believed in me. For me and other young people who have dealt with the pressures of living in poverty, taking on big responsibilities at a young age, or grieving over the illness and death of family members, we know that PRESSURE creates DIAMONDS. And there are many ‘diamonds in the rough’. All they need is an opportunity."- Zaire

Born and raised in Morris County, Angeline Lopez's perseverance reflects the strength and dedication of her immigrant parents, who fled Colombia in search of safety and opportunity in the United States.Angie's father worked at three jobs so her brother and Angeline could attend Catholic school and to provide for the family while her mother managed the household and raised their children. This commitment to education saw her through St. Virgil’s School, where she excelled and graduated second in her class. At Morris Catholic High School, she thrived until her family faced a severe financial crisis during her senior year. Her father’s job loss and health issues, along with her mother’s struggle to make ends meet, placed enormous strain on the family. Angie took on two jobs to help, working at Dunkin Donuts and as a child fitness class aide at the YMCA, while keeping up with her studies and college applications. During this challenging time, Morris Catholic informed the Lopez family about Tri-County Scholarship Fund. The scholarship brought peace, allowing her to complete her senior year, graduate third in her class and enabled her to attend Villanova University on a full financial aid package. At Villanova, she studied abroad in Urbino, Italy, and participated in a marketing strategy for a local winery, and secured a prestigious internship with Ernst & Young. Her hard work paid off when she graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Accountancy in 2015 and passed her CPA exam within six months. Today, Angie works at Verizon in the Enterprise Risk Management group, focusing on sustainability reporting and managing related risks. Reflecting on her journey, Angeline acknowledges the invaluable support she received.  She emphasizes the profound impact of the Tri-County Scholarship Fund on her life. Angeline’s trials and success are a powerful reminder of the impact that support and belief in a student’s potential can have: “For all of you who have donated to the Tri-County previously, thank you for your kindness and generosity. You give us the chance to afford a great education, and a chance at success and prosperity.” . Watch Angie tell her story in her own words from the 2024 Women of Achievement Luncheon:

Shaloom Bakinahe’s story is one of resilience, hope, and transformation. Born in the United States to parents who survived the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, Shaloom’s journey reflects the incredible strength and determination of him and his family. Growing up as one of six children, Shaloom possessed an awareness of the sacrifices his mother made to provide for their family. “My mother has worked tirelessly to provide for us, often juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet,” Shaloom shares. Her relentless commitment to her children’s education was a foundation for the determination which drove Shaloom to aspire for a better future. After visiting Pope John XXIII High School in Sparta, Shaloom knew he had found the right fit. Known for its academic excellence and uplifting community, the school represented an opportunity to thrive in an environment dedicated to nurturing potential. “I had known a few friends who recently transferred there, so I pleaded with my mother to enroll me,” he recalls. However, the financial burden seemed insurmountable. Around the same time, Shaloom discovered the Tri-County Scholarship Fund. “We heard stories of how this organization had transformed the lives of many students in the same situation as me,” Shaloom recalled. Receiving the scholarship was a pivotal moment, transforming what seemed like an unattainable dream into reality. “Receiving the Tri-County Scholarship was a turning point in my life.” At Pope John, Shaloom found not only an esteemed education, but also a community that believed in his potential. The dedicated teachers, challenging curriculum, and supportive peers all played a significant role in reshaping his future. Just graduated in 2024, Shaloom is filled with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. “I am thrilled to share that I will be attending Curry College this fall, where I have received a generous financial aid package.” Majoring in Finance, Shaloom’s dreams have been fueled by the foundation provided by Pope John XXIII and the financial support from Tri-County. “Tri-County not only invested in my education but also in my future. You have given me the tools to dream big and the confidence to pursue those dreams.” With a bright future ahead and a heart full of gratitude, Shaloom Bakinahe is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with determination, support, and a strong educational foundation. His journey from the struggles of his family's past to the promise of his future is a powerful reminder of the impact that kindness and generosity can have on a young life. “Your support has made all the difference. Thank you.” LISTEN TO SHALOOM IN HIS OWN WORDS:

Four area professionals will be honored at Tri-County Scholarship Fund's (TCSF) 11th Annual Women of Achievement Luncheon on April 11, 2024, at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club. "We are thrilled to be honoring such an accomplished and inspiring group of women,” expressed Prudence Pigott, President of Tri-County. “Each year, the event recognizes four outstanding women whose career accomplishments and community service make them leaders in the community, and role models for our scholarship students.” The Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon serves as a critical fundraising event for Tri-County’s Freedom Scholar Program, which supports academically promising 9th-12th grade students facing substantial financial need. The program, a partnership between schools, families, and TCSF, has a track record of success, with 100% of Freedom Scholars graduating high school and attending 4-year colleges. In addition to the honorees, the Awards Luncheon will also feature inspiring stories from a current Tri-County Freedom Scholar, Fiorella, and a past recipient, Angeline Lopez, showcasing the impact of TCSF on young lives. The 2024 Women of Achievement honorees: As a Member of the Firm, Cole Schotz, Mary W. Browning, Esq., specializes in estate planning, wealth preservation, and elder law, among other areas. She employs a holistic approach to safeguard the futures of families and individuals. As deputy chair of the Tax, Trusts & Estates group, Browning oversees many of the department’s operations, emphasizing team processes, mentorship, and the well-being of attorneys and staff. Her dedication to advancing women in the legal profession is evident through her significant involvement in the firm’s STARS program, aimed at empowering female attorneys. Before her tenure at Cole Schotz, she served as a law clerk for the Honorable Judge Joel A. Pisano of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. An avid golfer and part-time globetrotter, Browning enjoys sharing her travel experiences with her husband and daughter. Jill Gateman boasts an illustrious career in banking and finance, having recently joined TD Bank to lead Middle Market and Asset Based Lending business segments. Her previous roles include Executive Vice President and Co-Head of Corporate Banking for PNC Bank, NA, where she was instrumental in leading the Middle Market and Large Corporate Banking Segment within the East Region. Gateman's commitment to corporate diversity and inclusion is evident in her service on the enterprise-wide Corporate Diversity Council and as Lead DEI Advocate within PNC Bank. A passionate community advocate, Gateman serves as an Executive Committee member for The Community Food Bank of New Jersey and has been involved with the Boards of Family Services of Morris County and Gill St. Bernard’s School. A Douglass College/Rutgers University alumna, she lives in Mendham, New Jersey, with her husband and two college-aged children. Monica Martinez Milan's journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship and her advocacy for small business owners has made her a respected leader and mentor. Her story is one of perseverance and determination, rising from the challenges of being a first-generation child of immigrants in Newark, NJ, to establishing successful businesses and serving on prestigious boards, notably as a board member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the first Latina Chairwoman in the 100+ year history of the Somerset County Business Partnership. She and her husband, Mark, own several businesses including Stumpy’s Hatchet House in Green Brook and the real estate development companies, Elmsgate, LLC and Tyrol Group, LLC. They reside in Peapack-Gladstone with their two children. Ashley Travers is Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at KGPCo. With a career spanning over two decades, Travers has made significant impacts in the telecommunications sector, notably spearheading the strategic planning and execution of the $42.5 billion BEAD initiative aimed at enhancing internet accessibility across the United States and its territories. At her previous role with Verizon, Ashley’s leadership was instrumental in the success of the first 5G Super Bowl in Atlanta, followed by similar achievements in Miami and Tampa. Travers holds an MBA from Rutgers University and has participated in professional development programs at Harvard Business School, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and Penn State University. Her dedication to community service is evident in her volunteer work with homeless and at-risk youth and as a youth lacrosse coach. She resides in Bernardsville with her two children. Event Information and Registration:

Dear Tri-County Friends, At Tri-County Scholarship Fund we send our congratulations and best wishes to the 88 Tri-County high school seniors who graduated this past June, and who are now headed off to college. Bravo! Now as our Tri-County partner schools are getting ready for the start of the new school year, we are proud to share the news that Tri-County has been able to provide scholarships for 830 K-12th grade students for this 2023/24 school year. These 830 children will now have the opportunity to attend a safe, quality, independent school, and have a chance in life. Thank you to our generous donors for making this possible. Of course, our work does not end there. Because we keep thinking about the equally deserving 1,600 additional children still on our scholarship waiting list. How can we help more of them? Check out the Summer ’23 newsletter below and see what we have planned and some of the people who will help make it happen. Please mark your calendar for our big Annual Awards Dinner on October 24. Thank you to our three terrific honorees! May we ask you to consider supporting a child for this school year – with a $2,000 scholarship for grade school or $4,000 for high school? You cannot imagine what a life-changing difference your support will mean – how much it will fill a child’s heart with hope and happiness! We know it will fill your own heart to be part of a child’s journey of opportunity. Looking forward to seeing you this school year. Thank you for making such a difference for the grateful children we serve. With appreciation, Prudence Pigott President, Tri-County Scholarship Fund

The newly formed Friends of Tri-County group hosted a special night to remember on February 8th. The group collaborated with Matt Hanifin, a Tri-County supporter and salesperson for the NJ Devils, to bring together students, alumni, and supporters of Tri-County. And what better way to unite for a cause than through the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a New Jersey Devils hockey game? The event raised an $900 through ticket sales, a great first year! But the highlights of the night went beyond just numbers. After the game, the Tri-County group had the unique opportunity to step onto the rink and gather around the iconic NJ Devils logo for a group photo. Attending the event was upcoming honoree for the Women of Achievement luncheon on April 11, Monica Martinez Milan as well as Elisa Charters, a past Women of Achievement honoree! The Friends of Tri-County group also included event organizers, Lauren Conigliaro, Gaby Gomez and past scholarship recipient, Alessandra Veliz. Students and chaperones from Pope John XXIII Regional High School in Sparta were in the stands cheering on the Devils! Even though the Devils were not victorious, it's clear that the real victory was off the ice. In bringing supporters and students together for a common goal and raising funds for scholarships. It's a reminder that when we come together, we can make a difference in the lives of others, one goal at a time, one child at a time. Here's to more nights like this, where fun, community, and purpose align to create a brighter future for all. Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and cheered – you are the true champions of education.

Alessandra (Ally) Veliz grew up in a home where education was valued at the highest level. Her mom Rosa, a Peruvian immigrant, displayed steely determination and resolve, attaining a bachelor’s degree after a divorce and making sure her 3 children had a good education. Even though they divorced, her mom and dad, Alberto, were united in wanting the best education for their children. Inspired by her parents’ example, Ally excelled at DePaul Catholic, then in college at NYU Tisch School of the Arts where she majored in film. Afterwards she rose through a series of challenging jobs that propelled her forward to the current job she loves. Head of Growth for Co-x3 Family Foundation, Ally brings her experience in corporate media and passion for marketing and business development to this non-profit, intending to help it grow into a global influencer offering tools to enable clients to meet their personal and business goals. Prior to Co-X3, Ally was in marketing for a non-profit, IEEE, the largest global technical professional organization. While there, Ally taught herself 10 different software programs which she then taught to her co-workers. "It was a very rewarding experience. If you hand me a problem, I can solve it,”she says. Ally was introduced to DePaul Catholic when her sister received a Tri-County scholarship. She was very grateful to get a scholarship too. “It saved me from going to a school district that wouldn’t have provided for me the way DePaul did. I want to create change in the world and would not have been able to be in my current position without De Paul and Tri-County." A member of the newly formed, Friends of Tri-County group of alumni and young supporters who want to share the mission of Tri-County and raise funds as a group, Ally has been involved in planning the recent February 2024 event, Tri-County Night at the Devils. She also attended the 2023 Tri-County Annual Awards Dinner with a group of other past scholarship recipients. Ally wants Tri-County to know, “You’re creating influence that makes young people want to go out and change the world the way that you changed their lives.”

Anyone who had the privilege of attending last year's Tri-County Annual Awards Dinner, will remember the inspiring words of high school student speaker, Claudia Olivero. Claudia was poised and engaging as she addressed 900 guests at Tri-County's largest event ever. (Watch video of her speech) Claudia humbly gave us a glimpse into her life growing up in Paterson with her single mother who did her best to take care of Claudia and her 3 younger brothers. Life was difficult enough when her mom was diagnosed with brain cancer. Claudia had to step up to be a second mom to the boys: doing all the shopping and meal prep, helping her brothers with their homework, looking after them, as well as, doing all the laundry and cleaning. Incredibly, in the midst of all these adult responsibilities, Claudia persevered in her own studies at Mary Help of Christians Academy maintaining excellent grades while taking Honors and AP courses. Claudia and her mom credit the generosity of the Tri-County donors for making it possible for her to attend this high quality, values-based school which fed her intellect, understood and cared for her emotionally, and nurtured her spiritually during this challenging time. Thankfully, her mother recovered which allowed Claudia to dream about graduating high school and attending college. We are excited to report that Claudia graduated from Mary Help of Christians Academy! She is pictured above wearing her National Honor Society stole. Claudia received many college acceptances and was thrilled to choose American University where she received a generous. financial aid package. We wish her much success as she heads to campus in a just a few weeks! We are so proud to be part of Claudia's journey of overcoming hardship to achieve great things.

Read Story: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/morristown/articles/morris-county-resident-and-chief-administrative-officer-for-atlantic-health-system-to-be-honored-at-women-of-achievement-event

2023 Women of Achievement honoree, Betsy McNeilly of Morgan Stanley, on a school visit and mentoring session with Tri-County scholarship students at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon. Read Story: https://patch.com/illinois/chicago/want-post-patch-heres-how-get-started

2023 Women of Achievement honoree, Heather Sperduto of ADP, with Tri-County scholarship recipients at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon Read story: https://patch.com/new-jersey/matawan-aberdeen/ep/4072311/nodx

Karyn Miller of Capital One with Tri-County scholarship recipients from Mary Help of Christians Academy Read Story: https://midjersey.news/2023/03/07/monroe-township-resident-to-be-honored-at-women-of-achievement-event/