Italian Mutual Benefit Association Scholars

Karl Ludwig, son of Brian and Suzanne Ludwig, has been named the recipient of a $1500 scholarship for the 2025-2026 collegiate academic year by the Italian Mutual Benefit Association of Stroudsburg according to Felix Staffaroni, Association President.

Karl, a Senior at East Stroudsburg South High School, is second in his class of 355 with an unweighted GPA of 3.982 and a “weighted” (counting AP courses) GPA of 5.582. He has received many awards and honors, most notably meriting Salutatorian of his Senior Class. Karl’s extracurricular activities include Student School Board Representative, Manager of School Communications, Co-President of the School Spirit Committee, and pianist for the High School Choir and pit orchestra! He will attend Pace University in New York City in the Fall to major in Business (Arts and Entertainment Management).

The IMBA Scholarship Program was established in 1989 as part of the Association’s Diamond Anniversary celebration. Scholarship applicants are required to demonstrate superior academic achievement, active involvement in extra-curricular activities, participation in school and community service, and write a 1000-word minimum essay on the topic “What My Italian Heritage Means to Me.”

The monetary grant is the result of a comprehensive evaluation and is applicable to the awardee’s Freshman year at a four-year college or university program. The Association members feel that it is very important, particularly in our present economic situation, to provide financial assistance to students and their families. Unfortunately, limited funds and keen competition for the scholarship does not permit additional assistance for other deserving candidates.

The mission of the Italian Mutual Benefit Association is “to promote positive social interaction between and among Americans of Italian descent, provide for the preservation of our Italian cultural heritage, and enhance the positive image of the Italian people within the greater community.” The Association continues to serve its constituents and was granted a Charter by the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court of Common Pleas of Monroe County in 1914.