Rutgers School of Health Professions (SHP) honored 41 exceptional students at its annual scholarship celebration, held Nov. 6 at the Rutgers Club in Piscataway. The event brought together students, faculty, and program leaders to recognize academic excellence and achievement across SHP’s diverse programs.

The awards included SHP general scholarships, as well as those established by faculty members, alumni, and outside organizations for students in specific disciplines.

Nichole Geist

The event’s guest speaker was Nichole Geist, president of the SHP Student Government Association and a physician assistant student who received the Dr. Judith Yannariello Endowed Scholarship. Geist described the PA program as “transformative,” noting that it has shaped her growth as a clinician, teammate, and leader.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Rutgers School of Health Professions for cultivating an environment that encourages students to lead, collaborate, and pursue excellence with purpose,” she said.

“I am also deeply honored to be a recipient of the Dr. Judith Yannariello Endowed Scholarship. Dr. Yannariello’s legacy reminds us that leadership begins with generosity — with the willingness to invest in others so that they, too, can succeed.”

The Dr. Judith Yannariello Endowed Scholarship honors the life and impact of Yannariello, who earned her doctoral degree in biomedical research before returning to Rutgers at age 53 to pursue her dream of becoming a physician assistant. She passed away from pancreatic cancer during her second year in the program. Her resilience and compassion and continue to inspire future PAs.

Among other awards presented was a scholarship created by Kenneth Gill, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions, in memory of his parents — social workers committed to helping others access education. Four students received awards.

One recipient. Nagham Al Darwish, a doctoral student in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation —Research track, wrote in a thank-you letter, “As an immigrant, I take great pride in bringing a multicultural perspective and embracing diversity, where mental wellness is available for all. This means that individuals of various cultural or ethnic backgrounds deserve to have services available that honor their identity, values, and needs.”

Joseph Jung

Another scholarship honoree, Joseph Jung, a physician assistant student, reflected on how his passion for health care began during medical brigades in central Mexico, where he volunteered as a medical assistant and interpreter.

“Seeing patients light up with joy simply from being seen, heard, and helped solidified my calling to pursue a career as a PA,” wrote Jung in his thank-you letter. “I am incredibly honored to be the recipient of the Champions Endowed Scholarship. This award not only alleviates part of the financial burden of graduate education but also serves as an affirmation of the path I have chosen.”

In her remarks, Geist also reflected on her service as SGA president, highlighting student-led initiatives that strengthened community and raised funds for future scholarships, including a fitness challenge.

“Being president of SHP has taught me that true success isn’t about what you achieve for yourself — it’s about what you help build for others,” she said.

See the full list of scholarship recipients.