Students from Barnegat, Bayonne, Cinnaminson, Haddon Heights and Jersey City Recognized for Academic Achievements with Scholarships

July 30, 2026

(TRENTON) – Celebrating the accomplishments of individuals who are blind, deafblind, and visually impaired, Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) today announced college scholarships for five blind, deafblind, or visually impaired students and recognized other blind and visually impaired students for their academic achievements.

Some of the honorees were celebrated during Wednesday night’s Trenton Thunder game as part of Blindness Awareness Night.

"For more than 20 years, CBVI has worked to foster full community inclusion and raise awareness of the potential and accomplishments of individuals who are blind, deafblind, and visually impaired,” said Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha. “We were thrilled to celebrate the success of these exemplary individuals at a special Trenton Thunder game. Their accomplishments demonstrate that anything is possible and inspire a brighter, more inclusive future for New Jersey.”

"These scholarships help alleviate the financial challenges associated with pursuing higher education and ensure access to education,” said Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire. “Beyond financial support, they also serve as a celebration of the exceptional talents and achievements of these students. We congratulate them and look forward to their future achievements.”

"It is both a privilege and a fundamental commitment to acknowledge the achievements of students who are blind, deafblind, and visually impaired,” said Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Executive Director Dr. Bernice Davis. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these outstanding individuals, celebrating their success alongside their families, friends, and supporters. As we welcome them into the 2026 cohort of scholarship recipients, we wish them continued success as they pursue and reach their goals.”

Scholarship awards ranged from $1,000 to $5,000. This year’s awardees are:

• Matthew Herrera of Jersey City, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Musical Theater at Pace University. Matthew received the Nathan and Sally Rogoff Scholarship for Academic Excellence.

·        Ava Linton of Barnegat, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Public Health/Pre-Law at Rutgers University. Ava received the Mary Louise Buckley Scholarship for Students Majoring in Health Services or Communications.

·        Jolie Shenouda of Bayonne, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University. Jolie received the Sarah J. Churchill Scholarship for Volunteerism and Support to a Charitable Cause.

·        Colin Tees of Cinnaminson, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Finance at Rowan University. Colin received the Cathy and Herb Bodensiek Scholarship.

·        Helina Walker of Haddon Heights, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in History at Rowan University. Helina received the Caroline Foster Scholarship for Independence and Self-Determination.

Samuel Latham of Newark, Elizabeth Miner of Summit, Hamza Moamen of Jackson, Matthew Potter of Southampton and Pandorraa De Rosa-Marrazzo of North Middletown also received $200 each for being finalists in the college scholarship program.

Isabelle Nutt, a current CBVI client who is pursuing a degree in Inclusive Education at Rowan College, sang the National Anthem.

Scholarships are privately funded by the estates of the individuals for which they are named.

To view pictures of the ceremony at the Trenton Thunder game, please visit here.

The Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired works to enable consumers to achieve full inclusion and integration in society through success in employment, independent living, and social self-sufficiency. Learn more about CBVI’s programs and services here.