Melissa Centrella was a Nutley High School Graduate and resident of Kinnelon, NJ. Melissa left us in June of 2002 after a 20 year battle with Dystonia. This scholarship will serve as a tribute to Melissa's life of courage and love.

In the fall of 2002, Melissa's friends and family gathered to create a scholarship fund in her honor. Melissa's life was a remarkable one. Having left her impression in the hearts of all who met her, we feel that it is now our turn to carry on her mission. Her mission in life was simple in name and complex in deed. Hers was a mission of love. Without question the purest heart known to those who met her, Melissa made it her life's work to help others, particularly those afflicted with Dystonia. Through her mother Claire, Melissa put her energy behind many charitable causes. With her actions and words Melissa inspired everyone she met to be the best that they could be. It is with that same energy that her family and friends have gathered to award several yearly scholarships to students with the same characteristics as her.

Each year, The Melissa Anne Centrella Scholarship will be awarded to students pursuing a career in Nursing, Medical Sciences or a Medical Technical field. Because medicine and care were so important to Melissa's everyday life, she had a deep respect for the people that helped to bring dignity, comfort and respect to her special needs. The Board Members know that Melissa loved to help people. In turn, The Board has decided to award scholarships to students who hold the same care and respect for others that Melissa had. Students applying for the Melissa Anne Centrella scholarship will have to display a record of volunteer work for consideration. After all, it were Melissa's many sacrifices that made her the special person that she was.