John L. Buzzi Memorial Scholarship: Join a Legacy of Water Leaders

Lale Ergen, 2025 Buzzi Scholar, graduated from Newark Charter High School. She now pursues a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Pennsylvania.

Deadline to Apply April 10th

The Delaware River Basin, from the Catskills to the Atlantic Ocean, is a beautiful watershed that provides drinking water to over 15 million people, supports crops from corn to tomatoes, and is home to the largest freshwater port complex in the world. The water resources that support our communities and the ecosystem face challenges: droughts and floods are growing in intensity, aging infrastructure requires tremendous investment, and innovators race to find solutions to water quality threats from PFAS to microplastics.

Will you be part of the solution?

A Scholarship With Purpose

The Water Resources Association awards $1,000 to one exceptional high school senior each year. This scholarship does more than fund education; it connects you to a network of water resources professionals spanning New York to Delaware. Past recipients work alongside engineers, scientists, policy makers. They shape the future of our watershed.

You could join them.

Dr. Buzzi’s Vision

Dr. John L. Buzzi dedicated his career to protecting the Delaware River Basin. As a water resources engineer, he solved complex problems. As WRA chairman, he built coalitions. As a mentor, he invested in young professionals. This scholarship continues his work. Each recipient carries forward his commitment to innovation, leadership, community service.

Who We Seek

High school seniors living within the Delaware River Basin watershed with an authentic passion for water resources who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and environmental commitment.

You do not need a perfect GPA. You need genuine curiosity about water and a drive to make a difference.

The Scholarship

  • $1,000 toward college expenses
  • Recognition among regional water resources professionals
  • Connection to a network of leaders across the basin
  • Membership in a community solving real environmental challenges
  • The Buzzi legacy on your resume

Application Requirements

We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Submit:

  • Official high school transcript (grades 10-12)
  • Two letters of reference from teachers, counselors, community leaders
  • 700-word summary: your passion for water resources, volunteer work, academic interests, career aspirations, community contributions

The Deadline

April 10, 2026. No extensions.

Winners announced April 2026.

Apply Now

Email questions and application materials to ed@wradrb.org

Download Application Form

Become a Buzzi Scholar.

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