Commencement is On: Rain or Shine!

Commencement is On: Rain or Shine!

Despite the weather predictions, Commencement will take place on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the CURE Arena in Trenton, N.J.

There is no backup or alternative date, so we encourage you to make your way to the arena and join us for the ceremony. Even if we’re a little soggy, we still can’t wait to celebrate with you. We’ll provide the sunshine with our enthusiasm.

Rain jackets, ponchos and wellies are recommended.

So row your boat up and puddle jump inside to join us for 2026 Commencement!

If you are in a position where you cannot come, please make sure to tune into our livestream coverage of the event.

Watch Livestream
Skip to main content

Higher Education.
For Adults with Higher Expectations.

Edith and Oscar Smilack Memorial Scholarship

alt text

The Edith and Oscar Smilack Memorial Scholarship was established in 2004 to provide financial support to undergraduate students and applicants at Thomas Edison State University who demonstrate a commitment to making a contribution to the improvement of society through study of the arts, human services or political science.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this scholarship, the student must meet the following:

  • Academic Level: Undergraduate
  • Enrollment Status: Applicant or Enrolled
  • Type of degree/certificate: Associate or Bachelor degree in one of the following:
    • Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Arts in Human Services (AAHS)
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) (any Area of Study) or Bachelor of Arts in Human Services (BSHS)

Award Criteria

To be considered for an award, the student must meet the following:

  • Meet all eligibility criteria described on the respective scholarship's webpage.
  • Submit a completed Thomas Edison State University Scholarship Application during the application period.
  • Essay demonstrating financial need, academic merit and professional aspirations.
  • Submit any required supplemental documentation before the end of the application period.
  • Students enrolled with the University at the time of scholarship application must have:
    • Completed a minimum of 12 Thomas Edison State University credits, with at least six hours being from Online or Guided Study courses.
    • A minimum Thomas Edison State University GPA of 3.0 at the time of application.

Supplemental Documentation Required

  • None