Fredric J. Bednarek '59
The desire to teach came early in life for alumnus Fredric Bednarek. Growing up in Oakland, New Jersey, he chose Montclair State University because of its excellent teaching program. "The great professors and supportive classmates made me want to excel and become a dedicated teacher," he recalls.
He feels Montclair State University changed his life and like many others that the University serves, he was the first in his family to attend college.
While attending a University-sponsored luncheon in Boca Raton, Florida, a few years ago, Fred met fellow Montclair State University alumnus and benefactor Conrad Schmitt '58. "I was spurred to create the Fredric J. Bednarek Endowed Scholarship while I am still living," he recalls. "I'm an octogenarian and I established the endowment now, so that I can see what help my bequest will give while I am still alive."
The scholarship benefits undergraduate students majoring in Anthropology in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He intends to increase the endowment with the hope of providing full tuition to a student and made a provision in his will to further support the scholarship.
"It's essential for us who have gone to Montclair State to continue to maintain the high standards we were privileged to have experienced," he insists. As a former educator, Fred firmly believes in the importance of scholarship aid and hopes to inspire others by example. "I was a veteran and a scholarship recipient. It is now my turn to help others."
The Impact of Fred's Generosity
Genevieve Cece
Class of 2020"Anthropology has opened my eyes to a new way of thinking and has helped me understand our world, as well as my personal role in society and my culture… Receiving this scholarship means that I have been recognized for my hard work and abilities as a student and a person of positive character. It feels extremely rewarding to know that there are ways to help me pay for my education… and I am grateful for this scholarship support."
Like Fred, you too can have an impact on students like Genevieve by making a gift in your estate plan. Contact Ely F. Santoni, CFRE at 973-655-3695 or santonituere@montclair.edu to see how.