POPE JOHN PAUL II SCHOLARSHIP

The Pope John Paul II Scholarship provides funds to students pursuing graduate level courses at universities in the United States. The purpose of the scholarship is to honor the exemplary life of Pope John Paul II by providing an annual scholarship in his name to American students of Polish descent.

Pope John Paul II, Karol Wojtyla, was born on May 20, 1920 in Wadowice, Poland, to parents of humble means. Through the application of intelligence, energy and passion for his country, religion and education, he rose to the highest office in the Catholic Church serving as Pope from 1978 until his death in 2005.

Pope John Paul was an activist for human rights, particularly in his homeland, and played an integral role in the dissolution of the communist party in Poland and other Eastern European countries. Other notable achievements included his efforts for reconciliation with the Jewish community; outreach to Protestant and non-Christian sects; and travel to all corners of the world to bring peace, freedom, understanding and meaning to a troubled world. His years in the papacy were characterized not only by exemplary personal conduct, but also by outreach to millions across the globe, especially to young people of every race, religion and political belief.

This Renaissance man had a special place in his heart for students who flocked to hear him speak at youth conferences throughout the world. His wise counsel and advice focusing on love, understanding, and education, provided inspiration and motivation to millions of young people in all parts of the world. His leadership is sorely missed by young and old alike but his spirit lives on to inspire all.

The Reverend Billy Graham, in his forward to the book Pope John Paul II, A Tribute (Life Books, Time Inc. c1999) stated, “When future historians look back on the most influential personalities of the 20th century, the name Pope John Paul II will unquestionably loom large in their accounts. Few individuals have had a greater impact, not just religiously but morally, on the modern world. He will stand as the most influential moral voice of our time.”

Weiss & Associates has established and funds the Pope John Paul II Scholarship, a $3,000 annual scholarship for students of Polish descent enrolled in graduate level programs at US colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Kosciuszko Foundation, a New York City based organization promoting educational and cultural programs and administering numerous scholarship programs. (For more information please visit the website: www.thekf.org.) Students seeking more information should contact Maryla Janiak, Vice President, Kosciuszko Foundation, (212-734-2130); or John Weiss, President, Weiss & Associates, (609-397-4527).