FDU’s 2025 Annual Scholarship Luncheon A Celebration of Opportunity, Community, and Vision
The Rutherford Room at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan Campus was filled with warmth, gratitude, and inspiration as the University hosted its Annual Scholarship Luncheon—an event that celebrates the transformative power of scholarships and honors the enduring generosity of FDU’s donors and community partners.
April 10, 2025 – Teaneck, NJ
FDU President Dr. Michael Avaltroni opened the program with heartfelt thanks to the alumni, donors, students, and partners who make the University’s mission possible. “Today is a celebration of access, opportunity, and the power of education,” Avaltroni shared. “Scholarships are not just financial assistance—they are investments in potential, dreams, and leadership.”
He also introduced the University’s bold new initiative, FDU HealthPath Forward, designed to address national healthcare workforce shortages through interdisciplinary education, industry-aligned programs, and the launch of a Healthcare Innovation Center. “We are not just educating students—we are preparing leaders for tomorrow,” he said.
The audience was then moved by remarks from distinguished FDU alumnus Jermaine Pharmes, who established the Helen Pharmes Memorial Scholarship in honor of his great-grandmother to support students from his hometown of Jersey City. “This scholarship is my way of telling these students: You can do whatever you set your mind to, and we believe in you,” Pharmes said. His message reminded the audience that giving back takes many forms and that mentorship and support can be just as impactful as financial gifts.
Scholarship recipient and Ruzila Award winner Shalom Jaffe shared his inspiring academic journey. His summer research and clinical training in neuropsychology—made possible by donor support—led to a first-author publication in The Clinical Neuropsychologist and an upcoming presentation at the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN) national conference. “Your gifts make this all possible,” Jaffee told attendees. “They support not only our education but also our dreams.”
University Provost Dr. Ben Rifkin closed the luncheon with an announcement that underscored the day’s spirit of momentum and generosity. FDU recently established five new scholarships. “These scholarships represent more than funding,” Rifkin said. “They represent faith in our students’ futures.”
As guests continued to enjoy their meals and connect with students whose lives have been changed by scholarship support, the energy in the room was undeniable—a community united by shared purpose and commitment to the next generation.
Fairleigh Dickinson’s 2025 Annual Scholarship Luncheon wasn’t just an event—it was a promise: that through collective generosity and bold vision, the University will continue to build brighter futures, one student at a time.