Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine Honors Founding Dean with Scholarship 5K

In an inspiring blend of community engagement and dedication to future medical professionals, the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine is once again hosting the Bonita Stanton, M.D., Memorial 5K Run/Walk. This annual event, now in its fourth year, is more than just a race; it's a powerful tribute to a visionary leader and a vital fundraiser for aspiring doctors.

According to Hackensack Meridian Health, the 5K directly benefits the Bonita Stanton, M.D., Scholarship Endowment Fund, providing crucial financial support to students at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. For students and families navigating the significant costs of higher education, especially in demanding fields like medicine, such scholarship opportunities are invaluable. They can often be the deciding factor in whether a talented individual can pursue their dream of becoming a physician.

Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership and Learning

The memorial 5K honors Bonita F. Stanton, M.D., the beloved founding dean of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Dr. Stanton, who passed away unexpectedly in 2022, left an indelible mark on medical education. Her vision helped establish a unique curriculum focused on linking basic science with clinical relevance, fostering a team-oriented, collaborative learning environment. She was also a strong advocate for community outreach, exemplified by programs like the Human Dimension, which actively engages with communities across New Jersey.

Jeffrey Boscamp, M.D., president and dean of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, shared his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Dean Stanton was an avid runner who believed in increasing opportunities to pursue education. This run is a perfect way to honor her legacy.” This sentiment highlights the personal connection Dr. Stanton had to both wellness and educational access, making the 5K a fitting tribute.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield, New Jersey. It's designed to be a family-friendly affair, welcoming both seasoned runners and casual walkers, fostering a sense of community while supporting a noble cause.

Investing in the Physicians of Tomorrow

The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, the first private medical school in New Jersey in over 50 years, opened its doors to its inaugural class in 2018. Since then, it has achieved full accreditation and continues to grow, driven by a vision that “each person in New Jersey, and in the United States, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, will enjoy the highest levels of wellness in an economically and behaviorally sustainable fashion,” as stated by the organization.

Scholarships are a cornerstone of this vision, helping to ensure that a diverse group of talented individuals can access medical education and contribute to the future of healthcare. For students preparing for medical school or other advanced studies, resources like COSMIQ, a free voice-driven AI tutor, can provide invaluable support in mastering complex subjects and preparing for challenging exams, complementing the foundational education these scholarships help provide.

Sheila Wolfinger, executive director of Development for the School of Medicine, emphasized the growing impact of the event: “This race has grown every year, and we hope people will once again join us for this great cause. This event is a good workout, a great opportunity to connect with the community and a wonderful way to benefit the physicians of tomorrow.”

Hackensack Meridian Health's Commitment to Community and Education

Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey's top-ranked hospital network, consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to both patient care and medical education. The Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the organization, plays a critical role in supporting these initiatives. The foundation oversees fundraising for the network’s numerous academic medical centers, children’s hospitals, and community medical centers, alongside vital programs in nursing support, behavioral health, children’s health, and research.

Notably, the Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation has been recognized as a High Performer Overall and Healthcare System High Performer by the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) within their 2025 Report on Giving. The organization also publicly launched its Be The Difference campaign in September 2024, a one-billion-dollar fundraising initiative aimed at improving patient care, revolutionizing medical education, accelerating research, and ensuring access to care for all.

The Bonita Stanton, M.D., Memorial 5K Run/Walk is a tangible example of Hackensack Meridian Health's dedication to these pillars, fostering community engagement while directly investing in the next generation of healthcare leaders. Events like this not only raise essential funds but also build awareness around the critical need for accessible medical education, inspiring current and future students to pursue careers in medicine. For those looking to further their academic journey, exploring resources like the exam prep directory can be a helpful step in preparing for standardized tests required for higher education admissions.

Join the Movement

The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine encourages everyone to participate in this meaningful event. Whether running, walking, or simply cheering on participants, involvement contributes directly to the education of future physicians who will serve communities across New Jersey and beyond. The enduring legacy of Dr. Bonita Stanton continues to inspire, shaping a healthier future through education and community spirit.