JERSEY CITY, NJ – On April 30, 2025, the Hudson County Chiefs of Police Association presented four $1,250 scholarships to graduating high school seniors during the 200 Club of Hudson County’s 38th Annual Valor Awards Luncheon at the Liberty House in Jersey City. The scholarships, awarded to students connected to the Association’s membership, recognized academic excellence and were approved by the Association’s Scholarship Committee.
The first recipient, Gabriel Aguiar, is the nephew of Hoboken Police Chief Steven Aguiar and son of retired Hoboken Police Officer John Aguiar. In 2003, John was shot twice while responding to a violent incident involving a taxi driver shooting in Hoboken. The suspect later died in a confrontation with Hudson County Sheriff’s Officers. Gabriel will attend East Carolina University, majoring in Computer Science.
Ryan Kenny, son of retired Jersey City Police Deputy Chief Michael Kenny, received the second scholarship. Deputy Chief Kenny served as Incident Commander during the tragic events of December 10, 2019, in Jersey City. Ryan will study Business at Saint Leo University.
The remaining scholarships went to Gerald and Andrew Santangelo, nephews of Harrison Police Chief Dave Strumolo. Following their mother’s passing from cancer in 2023, Chief Strumolo has supported his brother-in-law and family. Both Gerald and Andrew will attend Rutgers University.
“I am honored to award these scholarships and congratulate the recipients on their academic achievements,” said Association President Chief Dennis Miller. “The Chiefs of Police Association of Hudson County remains committed to recognizing the dedication of our law enforcement community through initiatives like these.”
The scholarships highlight the Association’s ongoing support for the families of Hudson County’s law enforcement professionals, celebrating both academic success and the resilience of those tied to the region’s public safety efforts.