Dr. Oscar R. Diaz Establishes Perseverance Scholarship at Brookdale Community College

The Brookdale Community College Foundation is proud to announce the creation of the Dr. Oscar R. Diaz Family Perseverance Scholarship. This scholarship is intended for first-generation students who are either immigrants or the children of immigrants and are enrolled in a degree or certificate program at Brookdale Community College. Generously funded by Oscar R. Diaz, Ed.D., a distinguished alumnus of Brookdale, the scholarship will provide $1,000 each academic year to deserving students committed to their educational journey.

Dr. Diaz, an accomplished educational leader, graduated from Brookdale Community College before earning his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Monmouth University. He currently serves as an Administrative Supervisor for Curriculum and Instruction at the Freehold Regional High School District in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Throughout his career, Dr. Diaz has held various leadership roles in education, including teaching, high school administration, and central office administration. His focus has always been on providing access to opportunity and pathways for success for all students.

“Brookdale gave me an opportunity when I didn’t think it was possible,” said Dr. Diaz. “It was a place where I never felt judged by my language skills or background. The professors met me where I was, believed in me, and supported me every step of the way.”

Dr. Diaz’s journey, from overcoming language barriers as an immigrant to earning his doctorate, is a testament to the power of education. Holding a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in factors influencing women’s pursuit of careers in STEM fields, Dr. Diaz has dedicated his career to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for students to succeed.

With a deep commitment to equal access to opportunity and student success, Dr. Diaz has dedicated his career to advancing educational opportunities for all learners. In his role as an instructional leader, he supports innovative programs, curriculum development and implementation, professional learning, and inclusive initiatives that prepare students for both college and careers. He believes in the transformative power of education and works collaboratively to ensure that every student regardless of background has the opportunity to thrive.

The Dr. Oscar R. Diaz Family Perseverance Scholarship is a direct reflection of Dr. Diaz’s commitment to helping students overcome obstacles, just as he did. “I know what it feels like to be in a situation where opportunities seem out of reach,” Dr. Diaz explained. “This scholarship is my way of saying thank you to the community that helped me and offering a chance to those who are working hard, facing adversity, and pursuing education against the odds.”

Dr. Diaz’s inspiration comes from his grandfather, Mr. Rene Mendoza, who established the first vocational school in Bellavista-Tome, Chile. “My grandfather believed in education as the gateway to opportunity, and that is exactly what I want to provide through this scholarship—an opportunity for students to overcome adversity and build a better future,” he said.

Central to Dr. Diaz’s philosophy is his mantra: “Believe, Learn, Apply, and Grow.” He emphasizes that belief is only the beginning—success comes through hard work and continual learning. “You must learn because learning provides the tools to apply your actions toward your goals. There will be setbacks, but that’s part of the growth process. Once you grow, you return to belief because growth leads to new opportunities.”

Through this scholarship, Dr. Diaz hopes to provide not only financial support but also inspire a sense of purpose in the recipients. “I want the first recipients of this scholarship to know that there is someone out there who believes in them and wants to see them succeed,” he said. “I hope they take full advantage of the opportunities in front of them and, in turn, pay it forward one day.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Diaz envisions the scholarship continuing to grow and making a lasting impact for years to come. He hopes it will inspire future generations, including his own children, to give back and carry on the tradition of contributing to the fund. “I want this scholarship to not only support students now but to inspire future generations to contribute and continue this cycle of support,” he said.

“Education is a powerful tool,” Dr. Diaz concluded. “It opens doors, and I want to help others walk through those doors, just as I was able to.”

For Dr. Diaz, the scholarship is deeply personal. “Success comes from perseverance, hard work, and the love of family,” he said, reflecting on his own journey. “This scholarship is a reminder that obstacles can be overcome, and dreams can be achieved.” Through this award, he hopes to honor the resilience of immigrant students and inspire them to pursue their goals with determination and purpose.

“Dr. Diaz’s unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and expanding opportunity will continue to inspire future generations at Brookdale and beyond,” said Nancy Kaari, Vice President of Advancement at Brookdale Community College.

Oscar Diaz | TEDx Talk