There was no pathway available for Tifany Araujo, a recipient of the 2025 Suzanne Macaoay Memorial Scholarship, to become an environmental engineer in her native Dominican Republic. So, 2½ years ago, at age 16, she came to the States. Because her grandfather lived here and was a citizen, she got permanent resident status. Despite the close family relationship, she had only met her grandfather once, briefly. Tifany had to say goodbye to her mother and stepfather, her sister, and her beloved extended family. She hasn’t seen them since. “I miss them a lot. I miss the D.R.”The new resident of New Jersey earned her high school degree and matriculated to the County College of Morris. Knowing that fluency in English will be critical to her professional career, Tifany only speaks English and avoids conversations in which fellow students speak in Spanish. “One’s ability to adapt to changes determines how far someone can go,” she observes.
Still in her first year of studies at CCM, she has made her presence known. Tifany is president of the Environmental Club, which gets students involved in campus clean-ups and environmental hikes. She created the Environmental Excellence Award, which recognizes special contributions to the environment among her fellow students. Currently, Tifany is organizing a Mock United Nations program, whose focus would be on fostering new leaders among the student body.
Outside of school, Tifany volunteers on the India Brook Restoration Project. The goal of the project, sponsored by the New Jersey Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership (NJCWRP), is to preserve and enhance India Brook, located in Mendham Township. Volunteers remove invasive species of plants and fish and institute measures to support the propagation of indigenous trout.
Her determination and her passion to do good started with her family. “I’m bringing part of my home with me, the lessons my family taught me.” These lessons include the ones taught by her grandfather, who has made a big impression on Tifany in a short amount of time. “I like talking with my grandfather. I learn so much from him. My grandfather said, ‘When you learn something, learn it so you can help other people.’ That’s what I’m trying to do.”
Tifany’s goal in life is simple. “I want to be the best person I can be.”