NJIT Scholarship Brunch Offers Unique Experience Connecting Donors and Students
The 36th Annual Scholarship Brunch at New Jersey Institute of Technology celebrated a significant milestone this year, welcoming its largest gathering of students and benefactors to date. Donors from across the region and as far away as Sweden convened, united by a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators at NJIT.
The annual brunch serves as a vital platform for scholarship recipients to connect directly with the generous individuals and families whose contributions make their academic journeys possible. The event underscored the profound impact of philanthropic support in making higher education accessible.
In the 2023-2024 academic year alone, NJIT awarded $111 million in financial aid, with the average award amount totaling more than $14,000. This significant investment underscores the university’s deep commitment to ensuring that a high-quality education is within reach for talented students from all backgrounds — 92% of students receive some form of assistance.
In welcoming the attendees, NJIT President Teik C. Lim honored the memory of Dr. Saul K. Fenster, the university’s sixth president, who passed away in March after 24 years of dedicated service. Under Fenster’s leadership, NJIT experienced substantial growth, including the establishment of four new schools and the pivotal development of University Heights as a thriving academic hub in Newark.
Even after his distinguished tenure, Fenster remained a steadfast advocate for NJIT and a firm believer in the transformative power of education. His enduring commitment was further exemplified by the establishment of the Rose and Samuel Fenster Scholarship and the Saul K. and Roberta Fenster Endowed Scholarship for Exceptional Students, both legacies that continue to support NJIT students. Lim has made expanding philanthropic support and scholarship opportunities a top priority, ensuring that talented and hardworking students have the resources they need to thrive.
I am here as proof of what is possible when opportunity meets determination.
Among the student beneficiaries is Mizell McEachin, a senior studying entrepreneurship and innovation from the Martin Tuchman School of Management. He is the recipient of the Daniel J. Carroll Jr. '65, '70 Scholarship.
McEachin shared his personal journey of growth and opportunity at NJIT, emphasizing the university's encouraging environment that pushes students to embrace challenges and discover their potential. He recounted how the unexpected pause of the COVID-19 pandemic led him to a clearer understanding of his aspirations, ultimately guiding him to the entrepreneurship program where he found the resources and mentorship to cultivate his ideas.
Beyond his academic achievements, McEachin highlighted his development through leadership in the Washington Park Toastmasters Club, his dedication to the Highlanders men’s swimming and diving team and his entrepreneurial endeavors — which includes the formation of his own business, Lawn & Power Pro LLC.
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"Today, I don’t just stand here as a scholarship recipient; I am here as proof of what is possible when opportunity meets determination. And for that, I thank you all," said McEachin.
For many who contribute to scholarships, the inspiration lies directly in the students themselves – their boundless potential, unwavering dedication and ambitious dreams. As Beth Kornstein, interim vice president for Development & Alumni Relations noted, donors often see reflections of their own journeys or are reminded of influential figures who shaped their paths.
Ultimately, these investments extend beyond immediate financial aid, empowering students to realize their aspirations and, in turn, inspiring them to one day create their own lasting legacy of opportunity for future generations of NJIT students.
