My mom was always committed to the value of an education. Although dad died when I was 13, my mom continued her commitment, as a single mom, providing her four children with a quality education by sending us to a parochial school — initially by working as a seamstress in unfavorable work environments.

Unfortunately, my mom was injured in a car accident while I was in high school. So upon my graduation it was necessary for me to work to supplement our family income. I worked a graveyard shift from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. at the U.S. Post Office. It was the highest paying salary I could find. Then by happenstance I ran into a former high school teacher at the local grocery store. He asked me what college I was attending. I explained my circumstances and he said, "Robert we need to change that."

An altruistic teacher, he offered to mentor me and assist in the selection of colleges and applications for scholarships. Thereafter, I would check the mail EVERY DAY. What seemed like an eternity passed, and then one day a letter from Rutgers University — an acceptance and a scholarship! I can still feel the overwhelming emotion of the moment. A tipping point in my life without which I would not be here today. Simply stated, my success was founded on an inspiring teacher who took the time to mentor me and on the dollars from the scholarship that allowed me a path to a quality higher education.

Today as a scholarship donor my contribution is in time — mentoring others and in dollars — providing funding for scholarship programs. And our family proudly continues my mom’s commitment to education. My brother Peter, established the Traphagen Family Scholarship — a pathway for others to succeed. I am pleased to share that the Bergen Community College recently honored our mother by naming the lobby in West Hall the "Christine R. Traphagen Family Lobby." A dream come true for a proud but humble woman.

I share my experiences with others to motivate their involvement. My greatest satisfaction lies in seeing others become successful. I believe education, success and quality of life go hand in hand.