THE 2023 RYAN PATTERSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
IS NOW OPEN!
About the Ryan Marie Patterson Scholarship
Who Is Eligible?
High school students in the communities that we serve who are pursuing higher education in the fall of 2023. Previous winners of the scholarship are not eligible.
Are recommendations required?
You will be required to provided two written recommendations from non-family members in support of your application. Your scholarship application will not be considered complete or eligible for review without these two supporting recommendations.
What is the scholarship amount?
This scholarship is funded through the Ryan Patterson Memorial Scholarship Program, administered by The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy, a 501(C)3 organization. Additional funds are raised throughout the year in support of the scholarship program. The final scholarship award amount for 2023 is $2,000.
Are there any restrictions on how the scholarship money can be used?
The scholarship can be used to fund the recipient’s higher education cost. If you are selected to receive the scholarship, you will be asked to provide proof of enrollment and tuition payment from your school/university. Upon receipt of the documentation, the scholarship funds will be released to you.
When are applications due?
All applications are now submitted electronically. The link to submit your application is below. All scholarship applications must be received electronically by March 15, 2023.
How are people selected?
The recipient must strive for excellence in academics, sports or the arts. In addition, they must demonstrate that they have made an impact in their community through volunteer work, a service project or other means, live by the golden rule, have influenced others in a positive way and advocated for others who are less fortunate.
Do you have a grade point average requirement?
There is no grade point average that is required to apply for this scholarship.
When will I find out if I have been granted the scholarship?
The Committee will notify the scholarship recipient in April and the award will be presented at the YMCA of MEWSA Annual Dinner to be held in May.
About Ryan Marie Patterson
Ryan believed that every child should be provided the opportunity to sparkle. She helped so many children realize their gifts and share them with the world. Ryan believed that gestures both large and small had the power to make a difference in the life of a child.
At a young age, Ryan committed to helping those around her. As a teen she began her work with children as a member and coach of the Metuchen Branch YMCA Manta Ray swim team. Her work with her teammates inspired her and helped guide her direction in college.
Ryan attended Colgate University, graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She then received her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University in the Bronx.
After graduate school, the Bronx became her new domain. Ryan’s caring, insight, and persistence allowed her to help troubled children in need. At the time of her death, Ryan worked at the Morris Heights Health Center counseling and supporting students at the Health Opportunities High School and Truman High School in the South Bronx.
Unfortunately, Ryan’s time was cut short. There is still much work to be done.
MEET THE 2022 RMP SCHOLARSHIP WINNER, MEGAN CORBY
The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy has announced that the Ryan Patterson Memorial Scholarship has been awarded to Megan Corby of South Amboy.
The Ryan Patterson Memorial Scholarship was established several years ago in honor of late 27-year-old Metuchen Branch YMCA swim coach and mentor, Ryan Marie Patterson. The recipient must strive for excellence in academics, sports or the arts. In addition, they must demonstrate that they have made an impact in their community through volunteer work, a service project or other means, live by the golden rule, have influenced others in a positive way and advocated for others who are less fortunate. The scholarship award is $2,000, which can be used to fund the recipient’s higher education cost.
Megan attended Sayreville War Memorial high school, where she was very active in several club and societies including Student Council, Students Against Destructive Decisions, International Society, Light Crew, Sound Crew, FBLA, National Honor Society and National Hispanic, Math, English, Science and Art Honor Societies. She also served as president of their SADD club for two years and vice president of the Student Council. During her time outside of school, Megan identified a lack of athletic programs for special needs children in her town. To address this, she created a program for special needs children in their local little league called the Challenger Division, where she served as President for four years. “Watching the smiles on the athlete’s faces when they hit the ball off the tee or heard the cheers from their friends gives me an indescribable feeling of joy”, Megan said. “I feel blessed to be able to witness their accomplishments whenever they step foot on the field.” She is also a member of the Girl Scouts where she earned her Religious, Silver and Gold Awards.
Megan is attending Monmouth University, where she is studying Education and Speech Pathology.
Please help us to continue offering this scholarship by donating to our Annual Support Campaign:
