Galloway, N.J. – Stockton University has announced the recipients of the Arcuri Wharton Pre-Law Fund Award. This year, the distinction was bestowed upon junior Grace Hatzel, a Political Science major and Philosophy minor. In previous years, the fund has recognized students such as Dhikrat Odutayo and Damaris-Anne Spring in 2025, Ashley Ramirez and Tatiana Shukovsky in 2024, and Julia Graf in 2023. The Arcuri Wharton Pre-Law Fund, formerly the Alan F. Arcuri Fund, has been supporting students aspiring to attend law school since at least 2019.
The Arcuri Wharton Pre-Law Fund provides financial support to students preparing for law school, including assistance with LSAT preparation.
Fund's Legacy and Structure
The fund, established to enhance students' prospects for law school admission, has evolved over the years. Originally known as the Alan F. Arcuri Fund, it was renamed to include Professor Emerita Linda Wharton, a retiring Political Science professor and Pre-Law advisor, acknowledging her significant contributions to student mentorship. Wharton is noted for her dedication to helping students thrive in their academic and professional journeys.
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The selection process for the award involves a committee that includes faculty from Political Science, Economics, and Criminal Justice, as well as the Dean of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the Director of Alumni Relations. Prospective applicants are advised to ensure their applications are "well-written" and to "clarify why you need financial support for LSAT preparation."
Programmatic Context and Academic Alignment
The Arcuri Wharton Fund aligns with Stockton University's broader commitment to pre-law advising and political science education. The university offers a dedicated 'Political Science' concentration with specific pre-law courses, including 'Law School Basics,' 'Civil Liberties,' and 'Constitutional Law.' These courses, alongside electives and internships, are designed to prepare students for legal studies and careers.
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Other initiatives at Stockton University, such as the 'Social Justice and Equity Fund' and various scholarship programs supported by donors like the 'Hollander Memorial Foundation' and the 'John F. Scarpa Foundation', further underscore the institution's focus on student support and community engagement. Stockton's 'Report of Impact 2024' highlights the significant role of donor support and mentorship, such as that provided by the 'Stockton Women’s Leadership Council', in student success.
