Calling NJ Heroes: Applications and Nominations Sought for College Scholarships

NEWARK, N.J., Sept. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Applications and nominations are being accepted until October 15th for college scholarships for New Jersey students who have performed exceptional acts of heroism.  Five people may be awarded up to $10,000 to pay for undergraduate or graduate studies, thanks to the Dana Christmas Scholarship for Heroism. It was established by the NJ Legislature to honor a student who jeopardized her life to help her peers avoid serious injury during the tragic Seton Hall University dormitory fire. The scholarship is being funded in its entirety by the PSEG Foundation and administered by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA).

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"The best way to ensure skilled, responsible workers for tomorrow is to invest in kids today. It's our job to give children the confidence and the inspiration they need to succeed," said Sheila Rostiac, PSEG vice president – talent management and organizational effectiveness, and president of the PSEG Foundation. "We're proud to encourage, reward, and to help provide financial support to these young heroes."

Scholarships will be awarded to New Jersey students who have performed exceptional acts of heroism and may be used for undergraduate or graduate expenses. For any recipients who are not yet of college age, their funds will be held in escrow until they enroll in a post secondary institution.

"HESAA applauds the PSEG Foundation for supporting a scholarship program that recognizes young heroes and helps them attain their higher education goals," said Gabrielle Charette, Esq., Executive Director of HESAA.

To be considered for the scholarship, nominees must be New Jersey residents both at the time of the act of heroism and upon application. They must have been 21 years of age or younger at the time of the heroic act, a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, and registered with the Selective Service (if required).

If you know of an individual who meets these qualifications, s/he should complete an application and submit it to HESAA with at least one supporting nomination, no later than October 15, 2012.

The application and nomination form are available at HESAA's website at  http://www.hesaa.org/Pages/DanaChristmasScholarship.aspx. Applications will be reviewed and selected by members of the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority Board.  Recipients will be notified in writing of their selection.

For further information, please contact Janet Cooper at 609-588-3214. 

The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) is a New Jersey authority that provides students and families with the financial and informational resources for students to pursue their education beyond high school. With roots dating back to 1959, HESAA's singular focus has always been to benefit the students it serves.

Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) (NYSE: PEG) is a publicly traded diversified energy company with three principal subsidiaries: PSEG Power, PSEG Energy Holdings, and Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G). PSEG has a long tradition of caring for New Jersey's people and communities. Each year, the company and its employees invest millions of dollars and thousands of hours to improve the quality of life in New Jersey. The company's culture dictates that service to customers and community go hand-in-hand.  For more information, visit www.pseg.com.

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SOURCE Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG)