Adela M. Coca,
was an unsung hero who was a resident of Paterson for over twenty-seven (27) years. During her residency in Paterson she became
very active in her community. She was loved by many whom came in contact with her and was very much a person who loved life
and her Puerto Rican culture. She was a strong advocate for battered women and an expert witness on domestic violence. She
has given many lectures and provided training to hundreds of social service providers and law enforcement officers on issues
of domestic violence.
Adela M. Coca,
was also known for her involvement in political campaigns, and was the only Latino (Puerto Rican) woman who ran for the Charter
Study Commission which changed the form of government in the City of Paterson. Adela, also served in many organizations in
the city of Paterson. She participated in the Paterson Community Health Center Board of Directors as the Vice President.
She was also one of the founders of the Paterson
Puerto Rican Parade and was the President of the parade in 1977 and Grand Marshall in 1972.
Most of all, she was an inspiration to countless
Puerto Ricans and other ethnic groups who either served with her in organizations or who knew her. Because of her charismatic
personality, elegant posture on life, devotion and inspiration to service our community, she became an icon of inspiration
to many of us. Therefore, she inspired us to take responsibility and commit ourselves to our community as well. For us the
members of Sociedad Cultural Borincana, Inc., Adela, will be in our hearts always.
The Adela M. Coca
scholarship was founded in 1998 in honor of a great Puerto Rican woman.
Please be advised that only students from Rosa Parks High
School, John F. Kennedy High School, Eastside High School,Passaic High School and Passaic County Vocational High School
may apply. These schools are from Paterson, Passaic and Wayne, New Jersey. Scholarships are given once per
year and as funds permit it. For further information contact the Sociedad Cultural Borincan, Inc. Scholarship
Committee at 225 Market Street, PMB #78, Paterson, NJ 07505.
