Sussex County Community College HSE graduates earn New Jersey adult education scholarships

NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — Two graduates of Sussex County Community College’s High School Equivalency (HSE) Program have been awarded the only two scholarships presented statewide this year by the New Jersey Association for Lifelong Learning (NJALL).

The recipients are Jairo (Jay) Hernandes, who is enrolled at Sussex County Community College and serves as a student ambassador, and Elisangela (Lisa) Silva, who will begin the college’s Culinary Arts program this September.

NJALL annually awards two competitive scholarships to graduates of New Jersey adult education programs who earned their high school diploma through an adult education program and are continuing their education at an accredited college or university.

Each student will receive $8,000 in scholarship funding — $2,000 per year — with additional bonuses available for completing associate and bachelor’s degrees.

College officials said receiving both statewide scholarships is an uncommon achievement and reflects the strength of Sussex County Community College’s Adult Education program.

“We could not be prouder of Jay and Lisa for this incredible accomplishment,” said Sara Gorst, HSE program coordinator. “Their determination, resilience, and commitment to achieving their goals have been inspiring to witness. To have both NJALL scholarship recipients come from our program is an incredible honor and speaks to the dedication of our students, instructors, and staff who work together every day to help adult learners succeed. These scholarships are well deserved, and we are excited to see all they will accomplish.”

The NJALL scholarships recognize students who demonstrate perseverance, academic achievement and a commitment to continuing their education. Applicants must be New Jersey residents, have earned a New Jersey high school diploma through an adult education program, and be accepted to or enrolled in an accredited college or university.

The High School Equivalency Program at Sussex County Community College helps adults earn a New Jersey high school diploma while also offering instruction in English language skills, workforce readiness and college preparation.

College officials said both Hernandes and Silva will continue their education at Sussex County Community College while serving as examples for adult learners across New Jersey.

More information about the college’s High School Equivalency Program is available at sussex.edu/hse.