The New Jersey Hall of Fame is proud to announce the renewal of the Areté Scholarship Fund.

This year, thanks to a generous grant from ADP, six deserving students graduating in 2026 from a New Jersey high school will receive a $7,500 scholarship.

Application Window: October 1, 2025 – March 1, 2026.
Recipients to be announced in April 2026.

Areté is a concept that Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle referred to more than 3,000 years ago that refers to the act of actualizing one’s highest sense of self with a moral excellence of character. The term Areté essentially means that the individual should strive to pursue their passions in life, and realize their dreams regardless of their circumstances or the adversities that they are likely to face on the path to greatness.

The successful applicants will embody the meaning of Areté and will distinguish themselves as New Jerseyans who are on their way to realizing their dreams. The NJHOF Areté Scholarship Award will be one of the highest honors that the NJHOF & the State of N.J. can bestow upon a student, and each student will be recognized at the NJHOF’s annual induction ceremony!

The recipients of the Areté scholarship are young people who demonstrate that sense of Jersey pride and that willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty. The successful applicants must demonstrate qualities such as academic engagement, moral character, and a commitment to their community. These recipients do not necessarily have to be at the very top of their school class from an academic standpoint, but should demonstrate a focus in school and life, and have a well thought out plan on how they intend to realize their highest sense of self: their Areté.

The New Jersey Hall of Fame celebrates the extraordinary accomplishments of Garden State citizens. The inductees have overcome challenges and obstacles to rise to the top of their chosen field. They offer hope to those facing their own struggles and to young people who dare to dream, despite adversity. They instill a sense of pride in New Jerseyans who identify with their “can-do” attitudes and tenacity.