Jonathon Kreinberg showed a love for music and running during his high school career, but it was his passion for academics at Union County Vocational School that caught the eye of the Elizabeth chapter of UNICO.
The Union Township resident and nine other graduating seniors were recently honored by the service organization with scholarships during a celebratory dinner at Costa’s Italian Ristorante in Roselle Park.
Each recipient underwent an extensive application process that included an interview session that weighed heavily in the decision. UNICO bases its awards to college-bound seniors on “academic achievement, initiative and resourcefulness, outstanding leadership and the ability indicative of success in higher education.”
In high school, Jonathan took all honors classes and was enrolled in various AP courses. Besides being a dedicated member of the music club and cross-country team, he excelled in physics, calculus, aerospace, engineering and robotics. Jonathan is headed to New Jersey Institute of Technology in the fall, majoring in mechanical engineering and physics.
During his interview, Jonathan named his parents as his role models because of their strong work ethic, and also included Jesus Christ as an example of how we should live our lives.
Other scholarship recipients are Steven Di Maria and Gianna Ricerca, both of Westfield; Toni Frini of Linden; Evan Griffith, Jennifer Lawson and Samantha Sanjuaneyo, all of Elizabeth; Mia DiPaola of Wall; Thomas Marretta of Totowa; and Nicolas Moriella of Old Bridge.
The Elizabeth chapter of UNICO also introduced its Citizens of the Year on this night. They are James De Salvo Jr. and James De Salvo III. The pair will be honored on Oct. 28, 2018 at Galloping Hill Caterers in Union.
UNICO’s stated objectives are “to promote and enhance the image of Italian Americans; for members to be of service to the community; to promote Italian heritage and culture; to promote, support and assist charitable, scientific, cultural, educational, and literary projects; to promote members’ interest in public welfare; and to cooperate with others in civic, social and cultural development.”
The charitable organization raises funds for scholarships and helping other community service organizations. Gifts at the 2018 diner were presented to St. Genevieve Church, InRoads to Opportunity, The ARC of Union County, Center for Hope Hospice, Cooley’s Anemia Fund, Elmora Youth League, Our Lady of Guadalupe School and Community Food Bank of NJ.
The next meeting of the Elizabeth Chapter of UNICO will be at 7 p.m. September 5, 2018 at Costa’s Italian Ristorante in Roselle Park. Anyone interested in learning more about the organization, becoming a member, or attending the dinner in October should contact Nino Quaglia at ninoefdshop@gmail.com.
(above) UNICO honors Jonathan Kreinberg of Union with a scholarship during a celebratory dinner at Costa’s Italian Ristorante in Roselle Park on June 6.
(above l-r) UNICO National Membership Chairman Anthony Bengivenga, Steven Di Maria of Westfield; Thomas Marretta of Totowa; Mia DiPaola of Wall; Gianna Ricerca of Westfield; Jennifer Lawson of Elizabeth; Jonathan Kreinberg of Union Township; and Evan Griffith of Elizabeth, and UNICO National 1st Vice President Dr. Frank N. De Frank. Photos courtesy of Ralph Abbate.
