The Provident Bank Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Jersey City-based banking company, Provident Bank, announced Monday that Thomas Edison State University in Trenton is a recipient of a $100,000 Signature Grant for 2019.
The foundation says TESU’s distance-learning curriculum built on community engagement service learning and best practices was why it was selected to receive the grant.
The curriculum promotes experiential learning as TESU’s adult students support the state’s nonprofit organizations in the form of 12-week Capstone Projects.
“It is very important to assist educational initiatives that empower adults to attain their career goals and build a strong and competitive local workforce,” said Jane Kurek, executive director, the Provident Bank Foundation. “TESU has structured a program to prepare students to lead and create positive change in community-based organizations and develop effective public service partnerships with nonprofits.”
One hundred participating students will engage and work with 15 of the state’s nonprofits beginning this fall. Nonprofits include but are not limited to the Arc/Morris Chapter, Hope Loves Company, LeaderKid Academy, the Midland School and VolunteerConnect.
“TESU strives to support our (students) while meeting the critical needs of many nonprofit organizations,” said Merodie A. Hancock, president, TESU. “We look forward to helping students apply what they have learned in meaningful, real-time ways. This Signature Grant allows for our students to do this while experiencing the power of active citizenship. This grant plants the seed for community impact that keeps growing.”
The check will be presented to Hancock and the university’s vice president for public affairs, John Thurber, on Aug. 27.