Seton Hall’s Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute (JAULI) announced June 9 a new partnership with the Maestro Cares Foundation that will provide four renewable scholarships to undergraduate students.
Undergraduate students who maintain a 3.0 GPA and qualify through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are eligible for the $8,000 renewable scholarship. According to a press release from the Latino Institute, these scholarships are designed to help “talented students overcome financial barriers.”
In partnership with the Maestro Cares Foundation, JAULI said the scholarships will provide students with “peace of mind, stability and most importantly, the freedom to focus on learning, leadership, and personal growth.”
Founded in 2012 by Marc Anthony and Henry Cardenas, the Maestro Cares Foundation works to provide housing and educational opportunities for disadvantaged children. Simon Nascimento, the foundation’s scholarship program manager, said the collaboration reflects both organizations’ commitment to “investment in human potential.”
“We know that when students are given access to education, they create opportunities not only for themselves but for their families and communities,” Nascimento said in a press release. “We are proud to partner with the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute to help remove financial barriers and empower the next generation of leaders."
Lori Tarke, executive director of JAULI, said the partnership was inspired by the Maestro Cares Foundation's commitment to opportunity and the organization’s prominence within the Latino community.
“Maestro Cares Foundation is supported by many members of the Latino community, including some which sit on our advisory council,” Tarke said. “When I learned of their work and how they aligned to our mission, I decided to reach out.”
The scholarship invests in students who are active leaders within their communities, Tarke explained, providing them with mentorship and a network of scholars to help them grow professionally.
“Unlike many scholarships that focus solely on tuition, [this scholarship] supports students who have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to serving their communities," Tarke said. "Through mentorship and a network of support, it helps scholars develop both personally and professionally. "
Reflecting on the value of this partnership, Tarke said the scholarships will create new opportunities for students to pursue their passions.
“Together, Maestro Cares Foundation and the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute are creating pathways for talented students to transform their lives and make a lasting impact on future generations,” Tarke said.
Michela DiLorenzo is the head editor of The Setonian’s News section. She can be reached at michela.dilorenzo@student.shu.edu.
