D. Bennett Mazur Scholarship
This award was created in memory of D. Bennett Mazur, veteran, Ramapo College professor, Bergen County Freeholder and New Jersey Assemblyman. A native of Fort Lee, New Jersey, Mr. Mazur displayed courage and resilience as a soldier during World War II, receiving three Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. In 1972 Mr. Mazur was elected to the New Jersey State Assembly, where he served until he retired in 1992. He is well known for sponsoring a 1992 anti-discrimination bill making it illegal to discriminate on the basis of affectional or sexual orientation in hiring/ promotion, financial loans or credit, or housing in the State of New Jersey. His experience made him a valuable asset to the Ramapo faculty. After his death, friends, fellow legislators led by Senator Loretta Weinberg and members of the Bergen County community held a dinner to raise funds to establish this endowed scholarship fund, which is for students studying urban affairs or public policy. “His life as an assemblyman, professor, soldier and great American,” wrote Fort Lee friends at Mr. Mazur’s death, “have left us with a tradition of intellect, excellence, courage and empathy for those less fortunate; a hallmark for all of us to emulate.”