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Cappell ’83, Cynthia Scholarship

While a student at Ramapo College, Cynthia Cappell ’83 found lifelong friendship, trust and support from other “returning women,” and a deep awareness of how each of their stories inspired each others’ success. Their shared struggles as women peaked her interest in women’s history and current issues, especially women’s rights and protections under the law. She was motivated to become a catalyst for positive changes in women’s lives, and a career in law became the path she chose to achieve this goal.

After graduating at the top of her class at Ramapo, she repeated this academic achievement at Rutgers Law School, including as Editor-in-Chief of the Women’s Rights Law Reporter. She continues to practice and work for the advancement of women’s rights at her own law firm in Hackensack, N.J.

    Candidacy for the Cappell Scholarship will be based on the following criteria:
  • Any major
  • Single mother preferred
  • Full or part-time student
  • GPA 3.0+

This scholarship is not awarded through the application process.


2024 Recipient

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.


2023 Recipient

Marissa A. King

Marissa A. King of Paterson, N.J. is a Social Science Major and has a 3.9 GPA.

“I am proud of the fact that I have the ability to continue my education in order to be a great example to my family,” says Marissa.

After graduation, Marissa’s goal is to work as a Social Worker.



2022 Recipient

Talisha Germain

For Talisha Germain, it was her 11-year-old daughter who motivated her to return to school after nearly 17 years. Talisha began her studies at Ramapo in the Spring of 2021 after having earned an associates degree at Bergen Community College with a 3.8 GPA.

“As a single mom, the need to set an example is why I decided after all of this time that it’s never too late to accomplish your goals,” said Talisha.

In her spare time she serves on the Deacon board and Women’s Ministry boards of her church in Harlem, NYC. 

She is also currently the Utility Relations Specialist for Crown Caste LLC, with over a decade of experience working in the Project Management and Telecommunications consulting industry.


2021 Recipient

Donna Centurion

Donna Centurion of Lyndhurst, N.J. is a Sociology major with a minor in Human Resources. She has a 4.0 GPA and previously attended Bergen Community College, where she was on the Dean’s List. After 15 years, Donna is returning to school to make herself and her kids proud. She has three children, works full time in the banking industry, and lost her husband four years ago. 

Off campus, Donna is involved with Girl Scouts and Healing Space, a sexual assault hotline. “I enjoy working with people and aspire to become a Social Worker,” she says. After graduating, she plans on a pursuing a master’s degree. 

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