Coladarci and Ehlers Arts Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Morris Arts
Overview
Each year Morris Arts awards two scholarships to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding ability in dance, drama, visual arts, or music: the Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship ($1,500) and the Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship ($5,000).
Key dates
- Online applications open: Friday, December 5, 2025
- Application deadline: Friday, March 13, 2026
- Optional deadline to submit additional materials (after original submission): Friday, March 27, 2026
Scholarship histories
Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship ($1,500)
First given in 1999, this scholarship honors Eugenie R. Coladarci, who served as Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Chase Manhattan Bank and was an active Morris Arts leader for 11 years. Coladarci was completing her first term as Board Chair when she died in 1997. A committed statewide advocate for the arts, she strongly supported young artists and believed the arts enrich community life. The scholarship continues her vision by helping talented students continue arts study.
Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship ($5,000)
Established in 2002 in memory of Elaine Ehlers, a healthcare administrator with a deep passion for music and the arts. Ehlers supported numerous museums and musical organizations, drawing intellectual and emotional nourishment from the arts. This scholarship preserves her legacy by rewarding students who plan to pursue further arts education.
How to apply
Filling out the online application automatically places candidates in consideration for both scholarships. The application form (linked on this webpage) will request:
- Artistic work samples (links to properly labeled files)
- Two short essays (uploaded as part of a .pdf or .doc)
- A list of arts activities, awards, and recognitions
In addition, applicants must arrange for two letters of recommendation to be emailed directly by their teachers to Cyndall Brice at cbrice@morrisarts.org.
Please review the checklist and eligibility/evaluation information below before beginning the application.
Application checklist
1. Complete the online application and upload a .pdf or .doc that contains your essay responses and links to clearly labeled work samples by Friday, March 13, 2026.
2. Ask two teachers to send letters of recommendation via email to Cyndall Brice at cbrice@morrisarts.org by Friday, March 13, 2026.
3. Optional: If you receive additional honors, awards, or college acceptances after submitting your application but before the panel meets, you may submit that information by emailing Cyndall Brice (subject line: “Scholarships”) at cbrice@morrisarts.org by Friday, March 27, 2026.
Eligibility requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following to be considered:
- Be a graduating high school senior enrolled in a public, private, or parochial school in New Jersey
- Be a resident of Morris County
- Intend to pursue post-secondary study at an accredited college, recognized arts school, or formal fine arts program
- Demonstrate artistic excellence in dance, drama, visual arts, or music
Note: Children of Morris Arts trustees, staff, and panelists are not eligible.
Selection and award information
A panel of experienced professionals—each with expertise in arts education or professional arts practice and representing the different artistic disciplines—evaluates applications. Winners are chosen primarily on artistic excellence as shown in submitted work samples and application materials; demonstrated commitment and character are also considered. Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient’s chosen college or arts program to help cover tuition or program costs.