May 9, 2013
The Selection Committee of The Jonathan Maslow Scholarship today announced the recipient of its 2013 scholarship award.
Kaylah Swanger, a graduating senior at Red Bank Regional High School (RBRHS) and resident of Bradley Beach, will receive a scholarship in the amount of $5,000. In her application, Kaylah expressed a passion for literature, poetry, and editing. She was recently recognized by the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her poem, “Hayley’s Story,” and will attend an awards ceremony hosted by the organization at Carnegie Hall.
The Jonathan Maslow Scholarship is awarded to students exhibiting exceptionally high levels of written proficiency, creativity, and originality, as well as an interest in local or national environmental causes, journalism, or creative writing. The one-time $5,000 scholarship is open to all RBRHS juniors and seniors who plan to continue their education at an accredited 2 or 4-year college immediately following their graduation.
The fund was established by members of the RBRHS Class of 1966 in memory of their classmate, Jonathan Maslow. Jonathan was an accomplished author, journalist, documentary filmmaker, naturalist, and environmentalist. At the time of his death in 2008 he was an editor and columnist for the Herald News in Paterson, New Jersey. His accomplishments as a journalist and his commitment to his community are reflected in the many awards bestowed on him including The New Jersey Press Association for Responsible Journalism and the Joseph M. Sklenar Editorial Award. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Jonathan covered civil strife in Central America, helped save a library in the City of Passaic, fought vigorously to help clean up the Passaic River, and championed efforts to make politicians accountable for their actions.
The Community Foundation of New Jersey administers the fund on behalf of the Scholarship Director.