Our Mission
On June 29, 2024, we suffered an unbearable loss when Ed’s dynamic presence was taken from us far too soon.
Ed was many things to so many people—a warden, teacher, coach, athlete, fan, friend, partner, husband, father, and grandfather. Above all, he was someone who believed in people and inspired those around him to “Be the Best.” His legacy will live on through the students, athletes, and families whose lives he touched and through the scholarship fund established in his honor.
After a year of planning and preparation, the Ed Cicchi “Be the Best” Scholarship Committee became a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization in 2025. Our mission is to honor Ed’s memory by providing scholarships to graduating students of South River High School who have participated in the sports and activities that were such an important part of Ed’s life.
Our scholarships recognize students who have participated in wrestling, softball, and football, as well as students who exemplify the spirit of South River High School through the School Spirit Award—an awardEd himself was honored to receive during his senior year.
Scholarship recipients from South River HS Class of 2025
Aniya Johnson, Leigha Borusovic, Ryker Stewart, Vianca Vasquez Avila, Thomas Nielsen, and Karl Nielsen.
Continuing Ed’s Legacy
In June 2025, we proudly awarded our first six scholarships to members of the Class of 2025:
Aniya Johnson • Leigha Borusovic • Ryker Stewart • Vianca Vasquez Avila • Thomas Nielsen • KarlNielsen
In June 2026, we awarded $1,000 scholarships to the following graduating seniors:
Veronica McKim — Softball
Carter McDonnell — School Spirit
Julie Lopes — School Spirit
Filipe Granadeiro — Wrestling & Football
Maria Teco — Wrestling
We are incredibly proud of these students and grateful for the opportunity to help support their continued education.
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.
The Ed Cicchi “Be the Best” Scholarship Committee
Joan Cicchi, Eddie F. Cicchi, Jennifer Cicchi, Brian Fenyak, Matt DeSantis, Kevin Cassidy, Lauren Sandy, Wayne Blanchard, Todd Edelman, Mary Ann Billerman, Bob Billerman
Upcoming Beef Steak Dinner
The 2026 Edmond C. Cicchi
“BE THE BEST” Memorial Scholarship Committee Fundraiser Event
- Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 | 6PM-10PM
- The South River VFW at 31 Reid Street
Tickets: $85 per person
For more fundraiser and sponsorships opportunities, and to purchase tickets, click below.
Last year’s event was an incredible success, and we anticipate another sold-out crowd this year. We would love to have you join us as we come together to celebrate Ed’s life, honor his legacy, and invest in the future of deserving South River High School students. Every contribution, large or small, helps us continue Ed’s legacy and provide opportunities for the next generation. We are deeply grateful for your continued love and support.
Ed Cicchi Being The Best
Click to enlarge the images
Support Our Scholarship Fund
Moving forward, our goal is to raise the funds necessary to continue awarding these scholarships for manyyears to come.
The Edmond C. Cicchi “BE THE BEST” Memorial Scholarship Committee is a 501(C)(3) Organization (Tax ID #33-2159657). Contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of the IRS Code.
For check payments, please make payable to Edmond C. Cicchi Be the Best Memorial Scholarship Committee and mail to 29 Wilcox Avenue, South River, NJ 08882.
© 2025 Edmond C. Cicchi Be the Best Memorial Scholarship. All rights reserved. Website designed by TK1 Solutions.
Email us: bethebest@edcicchi.com