MaryPat Christie, wife of Gov. Chris Christie, poses with “hero scholarship” winner Alexander Louie of Hillsborough High School.
Alexander Louie of Hillsborough High School is one of four Somerset County students, and among the 25 total recipients of a “Spirit of a Hero” scholarship.
He received $5,000 scholarships at Drumthwacket, the governor’s official residence in Princeton, on June 4.
Growing up playing soccer, crew, and tennis, Alex couldn’t imagine life without sports. This made it difficult for him to accept that the only athletic opportunity available to his autistic brother was filling water bottles at athletic events.
Alex decided to combine his knowledge of developmental disabilities with his passion for sports and formed a tennis camp for children with developmental and learning disabilities around the state. He will most likely be studying at Rutgers University and majoring in computer science this fall.
The scholarships emanate from the Heart of a Hero program for military veterans.
“This is our third year for the Spirit of a Hero scholarship program and I am continually amazed by the character and commitment demonstrated by our young people in taking on serious issues impacting communities throughout New Jersey,” said Mary Pat Christie, wife of the governor.
“From human trafficking and environmental stewardship to STEM education and programs for individuals with special needs, all of our applicants and awardees are doing outstanding work to give back and help improve the lives of others. With the Spirit of a Hero scholarship, we are recognizing and honoring these good deeds while helping these young adults to achieve their career goals,” she said.
Since its inception in 2013, New Jersey Heroes has awarded $335,000 in scholarships to 67 students.
Other Somerset County recipients are Sankalp Aggarwal, Bridgewater Raritan High School; Laura Elizabeth Cavanagh, Immaculata High, and Abhiram Karuppur, Pingry School.
This year, more than 700 students applied for the scholarship.
Candidates had to meet several criteria, including a demonstrated commitment to volunteerism and community contribution, and enrolled as a student at an accredited college/university or a vocational training school in the 2015-16 school year.
New Jersey Heroes is an initiative that Ms. Christie began in 2010 to showcase the positive and unique ways people and organizations are impacting New Jersey and their communities. To nominate a hero, go to newjerseyheroes.org.
