The Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) announced the distribution of $87,500 in academic scholarships to seven students for the 2026 academic year. The awards, presented on June 9, continue the organization’s long-standing tradition of supporting the next generation of construction and engineering professionals.
Since the inception of its scholarship program in 2014, ACCNJ has awarded nearly $1 million to 117 students pursuing higher education.
The scholarship program serves a dual purpose: providing financial support to the children and grandchildren of ACCNJ member employees and honoring the legacies of distinguished industry figures.
“This scholarship program reflects two priorities for our organization: supporting the next generation of students and honoring the individuals who helped strengthen our industry,” Jack Kocsis Jr., chief executive officer of ACCNJ, said. “We are proud to recognize these outstanding students and support their educational goals and prepare for their future careers.”
The ACCNJ Foundation Scholarship was awarded to six students, including one award presented in honor of the late Donald R. Waters Sr., a respected professional known for his extensive service to the association.
- Annaliese Manus (Pennsbury High School, PA): Donald R. Waters Sr. Memorial Scholarship; attending Penn State University for Accounting.
- Arianna D’Amore (Voorhees High School, Califon): Attending West Chester University of Pennsylvania for Project Management and Business Administration.
- Nicholas Del Vescovo (West Essex High School, North Caldwell): Attending the University of Miami for Finance.
- Samantha Ferretti (Kinnelon High School, Kinnelon): Attending the University of Michigan for Elementary Education.
- Catalina Maglicic (Immaculate Heart Academy, Waldwick): Attending the University of Michigan for Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology.
- Grayson Petrie (Lenape Valley Regional High School): Attending McGill University for Mechanical Engineering.
Additionally, the John F. Donohoe Scholarship—established to support students in civil engineering—was awarded to Andrew Couto, a rising junior at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Couto, who is majoring in Civil Engineering, is set to complete a summer internship with Keller.
