The Thomas Edison State University (TESU) Foundation hosted its third annual Impact Awards on Oct. 9, at Pruitt Hall on the University’s campus. The event, themed “Honoring Service, Advancing Education,” celebrated corporate and community leaders whose generosity supports educational opportunities for service members, veterans, and adult learners.
The signature event successfully raised nearly $95,000 to fund scholarships, student success services, and workforce-focused academic programs that align with TESU’s mission of providing high-quality, flexible, and affordable education.
PSEG Foundation and Ron Gimbel honored
This year’s Spirit of Edison awards recognized two major advocates for the University’s military and veteran students:
- PSEG Foundation was presented with the Spirit of Edison Corporate Community Leader Award for over 30 years of partnership and dedication to TESU. Calvin Ledford Jr., president of the PSEG Foundation, accepted the award.
- Ron Gimbel, a U.S. Army veteran, chief financial officer at Sumitomo Pharma America Inc., and vice chair of the TESU Foundation Board, received the Spirit of Edison Community Leader Award for his exceptional advocacy and generosity.
During the ceremony, the PSEG Foundation announced a substantial $150,000 grant to increase military and veteran scholarships and support the development of three new courses in Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology curriculum. This funding is intended to help military students transition into high-demand civilian careers.
“We are incredibly honored to partner with TESU in serving New Jersey’s active-duty, National Guard, reserve, and veteran students,” Ledford Jr., said. The grant reflects the dual commitment to academic support and workforce development for veterans, he added.
Gimbel further boosted fundraising efforts by announcing a $25,000 dollar-for-dollar matching gift campaign to support military and veteran scholarships, doubling the impact of donations received through Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
University President Merodie Hancock, acknowledged the importance of the honorees, noting, “As someone from a proud military family, I understand firsthand the values of service, sacrifice, and resilience that our military students bring to their academic and professional journeys. Supporting their success is both a personal and professional honor.”
The annual Impact Awards serves as a cornerstone event, celebrating the University’s partners and underscoring TESU’s vital role in meeting the educational and workforce needs of diverse adult learners.
