In partnering with Montclair State University as one of the higher education institutions it supports, the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation is helping make the college journey more accessible for students with disabilities. The Montclair State University Foundation received a generous grant for the 2024-25 academic year in support of scholarships for students with disabilities.<\/p>\n
Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation Executive Director Gianna Durso-Finley and Associate Executive Director Lindsey Bohra visited the Montclair campus in November, hearing from Montclair leadership including President Jonathan Koppell, Vice President of Student Development and Campus Life Dawn Meza Soufleris and Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Margaree Coleman-Carter, who expressed their gratitude for the Foundation\u2019s support of Montclair students and how it reinforces the University\u2019s commitment to ensuring that students with disabilities can fulfill their highest potential in a responsive, accessible and inclusive community at Montclair.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor over 40 years, the Newcombe Foundation has partnered with institutions to intentionally support student populations that have been underserved by traditional models of funding and student services,\u201d says Durso-Finley. \u201cMontclair State University epitomizes the positive impact that can be achieved through faculty and staff working together to understand the diverse needs of nontraditional students \u2013 and then developing programs and services to deeply engage with students to promote their success. The Newcombe Trustees are honored to fund scholarships at Montclair and at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, knowing that the students are well supported and strongly positioned to achieve their goals.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are immensely grateful to be part of the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation family and to partner with the Foundation to continue Mrs. Newcombe\u2019s inspiring legacy,\u201d says Meghan Hearns, director of the Disability Resource Center. \u201cMrs. Newcombe was a trailblazer in a time when access to education was severely limited. Her selfless dedication to increasing access aligns with the Disability Resource Center\u2019s mission.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOur students\u2019 academic success and their desire to \u2018be the change they want to see in society\u2019 in their emerging professions, ensures her legacy continues for generations to come,\u201d says Hearns.<\/p>\n
Foundation leadership also met some of the scholarship recipients who benefited from the Foundation\u2019s support and visited the Sensory Space at Sprague Library, a unique space designed to create a safe, comfortable environment for individuals with particular sensory needs.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the financial support from the Newcombe Scholarship, I am able to continue my education so I can become a counselor for those who struggle with learning disabilities and\/or mental illness,\u201d says senior Gabby Brescia, a Psychology major.<\/p>\n
\u201cUnfortunately we can\u2019t guarantee people with disabilities never face discrimination, but what we can control is the support and resources we give,\u201d says Brescia. \u201cI want to be a part of this change\u2026and with this scholarship support, I know I will be able to make the difference.\u201d<\/p>\n