Deptford Twp. – Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) hosted an endowment signing ceremony on Wednesday, October 7, at 1 p.m. in the Eugene J. McCaffrey College Center. The event honored the legacy of Kristen Whyte, executive director of Internship & Career Planning. In her memory, a $10,000 endowment was established to fund the Kristen Whyte Scholarship Fund.
The Kristen Whyte Scholarship Fund honors the life and legacy of Kristen Whyte, a beloved educator, mentor, colleague, and friend whose impact on students and the RCSJ community will endure for generations. The establishment of this endowment was made possible by donations from the RCSJ community and Rosanne Elizabeth Paone-Petrucci, Whyte's mother.
Paone-Petrucci shared her heartfelt appreciation. "There's a lot of emotion today and gratitude ... I love seeing all of you here, and I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. This is the biggest and most beautiful gift you could have ever given Kristen."
Whyte's career at RCSJ began in 2009. Whether with students, colleagues, family, or friends, she served as a trusted counselor, a source of encouragement, and a steady rock to those around her.
"Kristen loved this place [RCSJ] as her second home," Paone-Petrucci added.
Even in the face of adversity, Whyte was known for her remarkable strength, courage, optimism, and resilience. She believed in helping others, opening doors of opportunity, offering guidance with compassion, and inspiring people to believe in themselves, even during life's most challenging moments.
Dr. Brenden Rickards, president of RCSJ, reflected on Whyte's character and positive attitude. "Kristen was a pillar here at RCSJ. Whoever she interacted with, she always made them feel at home, always made them feel comfortable, and always was there to offer an encouraging word. What really drove her was the love and support she had for everyone. She has touched the lives of so many students."
This $10,000 endowment will fund an annual $500 scholarship for one eligible RCSJ student majoring in English, Communications, Literature, or Arts & Sciences. Through this fund, Whyte's legacy of service, mentorship, kindness, and vibrant love of life will continue to transform lives and create opportunities.
Cody Miller, executive director of the RCSJ Foundation, extended gratitude to attendees for commemorating Whyte.
"Many of you knew Kristen Whyte and the passion she brought to everything she did. I really can't think of a better way to honor her legacy today than by having everyone here to honor her memory and support a student who will benefit from this scholarship every single year."
For more information about the Rowan College of South Jersey Foundation, visit RCSJ.edu/Foundation.
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