The Fredric J. Bednarek Anthropology Scholarship, established with a generous donation from Montclair State alumnus Frederic Benarek ’59, supports eligible students with a scholarship.
Professor Bednarek, who graduated from Montclair State and went on to serve as chair of the anthropology/sociology department at the County College of Morris, feels that “it’s essential for us who have gone to Montclair State to continue to maintain the high standards we were privileged to have experienced.” The Anthropology Department is very grateful to Professor Bednarek for remembering his alma mater and providing us an opportunity to support and honor our students.
Advice from Bednarek Award Recipients
David Fleitas-Guillen
“Keep an open mind. In doing this, the varied aspects of cultural frameworks will become easier to step back from, and explore in a deeper, more meaningful way.”
Joselyn Molina
“The best way to thrive as a student is to always reach out to your professors, particularly the ones who are already professionals within the field of anthropology.”
Jaileen Murillo
“Dedicate time outside of class to really get a full grasp of the concepts and material you’re learning. Ask yourself questions: How does this apply specifically to my life? To someone I know?”
Leanna Sanchez
“I would remind an incoming anthropology major that every day is an opportunity to see the world differently, and so, as anthropologists in-training, they have an opportunity to optimize that experience.”
Lucy Thoroman
“I’d advise any incoming Anthropology major to get to know your professors and take advantage of any possibilities to work closely with them outside of the classroom.”
Will Williams
“Enter your studies with an open mind and heart and suspend your personal beliefs of how the world operates and your place in it. Absorb the information your professors present and follow in the directions they point you.”