Craig Coelho received Jefferson Arts Committee’s annual scholarship award
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Craig J. Coelho, a 2008 graduate of the Jefferson Township High School, was the recipient of the Jefferson Arts Committee’s 2008 annual scholarship award. |
Craig was chosen from many applicants for this award based on his extensive academic achievements and school related activities and awards, as well as his non-school activities, community service outside of high school, and employment background. Planning to pursue music education as his major at the University of South Carolina, Craig’s career goal is to become a high school choir director.
An Honor Roll student, Craig served as Tri-M Music Honor Society’s President, was active in the JTHS Chamber Choir, Madrigal events, and spring musicals including Little Shop of Honors this past year portraying Orin Scrivello, the dentist. His extensive musical training earned him a place in the New Jersey All State Choir for two years, the New Jersey Region I Choir for three years, and the All Sussex County Choir for four years, all in the Tenor II category.
During his four years at Jefferson Township High School, Craig participated and performed in numerous music related activities from Masterworks Concerts to Jefferson Idol Contests and Talent Expos. Multi-talented he has acted, sang, or played the piano at many school functions while he was a student there.
Outside of school, Craig was a guest performer or accompanist at several church functions in Jefferson Township and Columbia, South Carolina and even performed God Bless America at the 2007 Jefferson Township Day opening ceremonies. His community service has included performing at Summit Ridge Nursing Home and Morristown Memorial Hospital.
Since 2004, Craig served as Choir Director and Organist at the Hurdtown United Methodist Church and as a substitute Organist at Our Lady of the Lake and Our Lady Star of the Sea Churches. According to Craig, these jobs have not only taught him business skills and organization, but also helped him spiritually.
Craig’s decision to move to South Carolina to attend college resulted from a family visit where he fell in love with the southern hospitality and friendly atmosphere. He believes it will be an amazing place to live and hopes to find time during his busy college schedule to become a music director at a local church.
The Jefferson Arts Committee wishes Craig the best of luck in his future endeavors.