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2nd Annual Scholarship Gala
Friday, March 13th, 2026
7:00 PM
Shackamaxon Country Club - Scotch Plains, NJ
On Friday, March 13, 2026, The Tia Maria Foundation proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Scholarship Gala at Shackamaxon Country Club in Scotch Plains, New Jersey. The evening brought together community leaders, educators, public servants, students, and supporters for a celebration of education, service, and opportunity.
The evening's Master of Ceremonies was two-time Emmy Award-winning NBC 4 New York meteorologist Raphael Miranda. The program began with an opening invocation delivered by Father John Carlos De Sousa, followed by a stirring rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner performed by soprano Margareth De Jesus.
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The Foundation presented its prestigious Hall of Fame Awards to two extraordinary leaders. Jeremiah La'Porte, founder of the House of Hearts Network Foundation, was recognized for his work in youth advocacy, civic engagement, and leadership development throughout New Jersey. Marianne Wilson, President of the Kimberly Anne Wilson Foundation, was honored for her dedication to expanding access to mental health resources for students and families across the state.
The Teachers' Insurance Plan Educator of the Year Award was presented to Elizabeth High School educator Renee Drummond. With more than two decades of service to Elizabeth students, Drummond has distinguished herself as an educator, speech and debate coach, and mentor whose influence has helped countless students find their voice and achieve academic success.
During dinner, guests enjoyed a special performance by the Frank J. Cicarell Academy Advanced Small String Ensemble. The evening also featured a raffle drawing with a variety of prizes donated by generous supporters and community partners.
Following dinner, The Tia Maria Foundation presented its Impact Awards. Deputy Chief Abner Rodriguez of the Elizabeth Police Department was recognized for more than three decades of dedicated service, leadership, and mentorship within the City of Elizabeth. The Sheila Y. Oliver Foundation received the organization's second Impact Award in recognition of its commitment to leadership development, civic engagement, and empowering underserved communities throughout New Jersey.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Foundation's annual scholarships. Aaliyah Torres of Frank J. Cicarell Academy was awarded a Tia Maria Foundation Scholarship for her outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to community service. The Foundation also partnered with Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss, to present a scholarship to Mehraeil Gadelrab of Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy, recognizing her dedication to service and her aspirations of pursuing a career in medicine.
Before the keynote address, guests were treated to a beautiful performance of Ave Maria by Margareth De Jesus, whose moving rendition reflected the spirit and legacy of Tia Maria.
The evening's keynote address was delivered by Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron. Commissioner Neron spoke about the transformative power of education, mentorship, and public service, sharing his personal journey and encouraging students to dream boldly, persevere through adversity, and use their success to uplift others.
The Gala concluded with closing remarks celebrating the remarkable honorees, educators, scholarship recipients, and supporters who continue to advance The Tia Maria Foundation's mission. Through the generosity of those in attendance, the Foundation will continue investing in students, recognizing educators, and creating opportunities for young people throughout our communities.
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