Chatham Marine Has 'Heart of a Hero,' Awarded $5K Scholarship From Mary Pat Christie

For the fourth time since becoming the First Lady of New Jersey, Mary Pat Christie announced the recipients of her Heart of a Hero scholarship program, which awards military servicemen and women a $5,000 scholarship to pursue post-secondary and vocational studies.

One of the 10 recipients this year is Marine Sergeant Emily Monks, of Chatham, who has dedicated much of her time to a personal cause.

Monks was injured by a drunk driver and became involved in the Every 15 Minutes DUI initiative, which challenges high school juniors and seniors to think about drinking, driving, and personal safety decisions through a real life simulation.

Monks is pursuing a degree in Pharmacology after interactions with her pharmacist at the hospital when she was injured in the car crash.

Half of the $50,000 in scholarships are being sponsored by AT&T.

“I am so proud that New Jersey Heroes is able to have this opportunity to play a part in the career preparation of these most deserving New Jerseyans,” said Mary Pat Christie in a statement. “This year’s Heart of a Hero Scholarship recipients represent a diversity of professional aspirations – from urban and special education to finance and business as well as pharmacology and neuropsychology. With this group, New Jersey Heroes has now been able to assist 40 of our dedicated military men and women advance their career objectives. The Governor and I offer our heartfelt congratulations and thank these heroes for their service to our state and country.”