OceanFirst Foundation Invests $25,000 in 25 Brookdale Students’ Futures

Brookdale Community College Foundation is proud to announce that OceanFirst Foundation has awarded $25,000 in scholarships to 25 Brookdale students, continuing a partnership of more than 20 years dedicated to student success and community impact.

The annual scholarship presentation brought together students, college leadership, and representatives from OceanFirst Foundation to celebrate not only financial support but the stories, ambitions, and resilience of the students whose lives are being transformed through education.

“These scholarships are truly life-changing,” said David M. Stout, Ph.D., president of Brookdale. “The OceanFirst Foundation’s continued generosity helps remove financial barriers and allows our students to stay focused on their education and future careers. Their investment is an investment in the strength of our communities.”

The scholarships support students across a wide range of academic disciplines, including nursing, engineering, architecture, business, automotive technology, political science, and computer science, all of which directly align with workforce needs in New Jersey and beyond.

During the presentation, students shared personal reflections on their academic journeys, the challenges they face, and the impact of receiving this support. Many spoke about balancing coursework with jobs, family responsibilities, and financial pressures. For some, scholarships mean the difference between continuing their education and stepping away.

“This is why we do this,” said Kathy Durante, executive director of OceanFirst Foundation. “Scholarships create opportunity. They open doors not just to education, but to careers, stability, and the ability to give back. These students represent the future of our communities, and we are proud to support them.”

OceanFirst Foundation’s commitment extends beyond financial assistance. Students were encouraged to explore internships, career pathways, and networking opportunities through OceanFirst Bank and its extensive regional partnerships. The Foundation also emphasized the importance of mentorship, volunteerism, and leadership development as part of a well-rounded college experience.

This year’s recipients reflect the diversity, determination, and drive of Brookdale’s student body. From aspiring nurses dedicated to improving patient care to future engineers and business leaders, each student brings a unique vision for making a difference in the world. Many expressed a shared desire to give back, whether through advancing healthcare, promoting kindness and inclusion, supporting their families, or contributing to their communities in meaningful ways.

OceanFirst Foundation supports nine partner colleges and universities across New Jersey and invests approximately $1.5 million annually in charitable giving, with a strong focus on Advancing Economic Stability & Mobility, Supporting Housing Solutions, Empowering the Next Generation, and Improving Health & Wellness.

This enduring partnership between OceanFirst Foundation and Brookdale Community College Foundation demonstrates the powerful role that collaboration plays in expanding access to education. By investing in students today, OceanFirst Foundation is helping to build a stronger, more vibrant future for New Jersey.

For more information about scholarships at Brookdale Community College, visit brookdalecc.edu.

About OceanFirst Foundation
OceanFirst Foundation empowers organizations to think bigger, solve more problems, and make life better in the neighborhoods served by OceanFirst Bank. OceanFirst Foundation’s priorities include Advancing Economic Stability & Mobility, Supporting Housing Solutions, Empowering the Next Generation, and Improving Health & Wellness. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 10,800 grants totaling more than $52 million to nonprofits across the OceanFirst Bank footprint. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.