The Chauffeured Transportation Association of New Jersey (CTANJ)
is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Barbara J. Chirico Scholarships, recognizing three outstanding students for their achievements in academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
The scholarships were presented during a ceremony on August 10th, by CTANJ President Mike Rose, CTANJ VP Joe Gulino, Deanna Gulino and CTANJ Secretary Jason Sharenow.
Academic Excellence Scholarship - Ava Santana | $2,500
Ava Santana, a recent graduate of West Essex High School, was selected for the Academic Excellence Scholarship in recognition of her exceptional academic achievement, initiative, and commitment to pursuing a career in medicine.
While only in 10th grade, Ava successfully pursued Honors Anatomy and Physiology, a dual-enrollment course through Rutgers University. The experience helped solidify her interest in the medical field. She is also one of only four students in her graduating class eligible to earn an AP Capstone Diploma and has been recognized as an AP Scholar for her outstanding performance on AP exams.
Beyond the classroom, Ava has demonstrated a strong commitment to helping others through volunteer work with Key Club and independent community service efforts.
Ava will attend the University of Miami, where she plans to pursue a biology/pre-medicine track with the goal of becoming a physician. She hopes to combine scientific problem-solving with compassion and service while promoting preventive care and community well-being.
Community Service Scholarship - Jayden Weiss | $1,000
Jayden Weiss received the Community Service Scholarship in recognition of his commitment to his community, strong work ethic, and dedication to personal growth.
As a student at Lenape Regional High School, Jayden has been an active participant in Heroes Club, DND Club and Jewish Heritage Club, where he has strengthened his connection to his culture and community. He has also volunteered at Black Run Preserve, working alongside others to help clean and protect the environment.
In addition to his academic and extracurricular activities, Jayden works year-round approximately 25 to 30 hours per week at McDonald’s. His responsibilities include customer service, handling transactions, and training new employees. His reliability and leadership were recognized when he earned Employee of the Month within his first four months on the job.
Jayden plans to pursue his interests in fashion design, fashion marketing, and business, with aspirations of building a career in the clothing industry and potentially creating his own brand.
Leadership Scholarship - Brianna Trenery | $500
Brianna Trenery was selected for the Leadership Scholarship for her ability to lead, support others and excel academically while remaining actively involved in her school community at St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Brianna served as a Peer Leader, one of the highest honors at her school and a position requiring maturity, empathy, and the ability to guide and encourage fellow students. She has also been a dedicated member of her school’s cheer team, demonstrating teamwork, commitment, and school spirit.
Academically, Brianna has earned honor roll recognition throughout high school while consistently challenging herself with rigorous honors-level coursework. Teachers and peers describe her as a respected leader who balances achievement and service with humility and warmth.
Continuing Barbara J. Chirico’s Legacy
The CTANJ Scholarship Program honors the memory and legacy of Barbara J. Chirico, a longtime leader within CTANJ and the chauffeured transportation industry whose commitment to service, generosity and helping others made a lasting impact on the Association and its members.
Through the scholarship program bearing her name, CTANJ is proud to support the next generation of students as they pursue higher education, career aspirations, and opportunities to make a positive difference in their communities.
“Each of these young people represents qualities that Barbara valued; hard work, leadership, service to others and a commitment to making a difference,” said CTANJ President Mike Rose. “We are proud to recognize Ava, Jayden and Brianna and to support them as they begin the next chapter of their education.”
CTANJ congratulates all three 2026 scholarship recipients and wishes them continued success in their academic and professional pursuits.
