University High School Senior Justin Contreras Earns Four-Year QuestBridge Scholarship to Northwestern University

NEWARK, N.J. – Justin Contreras, a University High School (UHS) senior with a passion for law, public service, and justice has been awarded a four-year scholarship to Northwestern University. The scholarship has been provided by the QuestBridge Scholarship Program, a nonprofit organization that provides higher education opportunities to high-achieving students from low-income families.

“Earning a full scholarship to Northwestern University through QuestBridge is a life-changing achievement, and it reflects the hard work Justin has put in from the moment he entered University High School,” said Superintendent León. “We are incredibly proud of Justin, and we know he will continue to be a powerful voice for justice and equity as he pursues his dreams.”

“Justin’s success is a tremendous source of pride for the Newark Board of Education and our entire community,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “His journey shows what is possible when our students are nurtured, challenged, and inspired – both at home and in school. We congratulate him, his family, and the educators who have supported him, and we look forward to all that he will accomplish in the years ahead.”

Raised by a single mother who instilled the importance of education in all three of her children, Contreras found additional motivation when his older sister, Noelia Contreras (UHS Class of 2024), graduated two years ago. Determined to follow her example, he excelled academically, earning a 4.45 cumulative GPA and distinguishing himself as one of the school’s top scholars.

“Justin is one of the most hard working and determined students I’ve ever worked with. He is a student who I like to say is the whole package: incredibly smart, driven, kind, and selfless. He has worked his whole life for this moment and it’s an honor to watch him thrive,” said Alexandra Walker, his school counselor since ninth grade.

Contreras attributes his love of law and policy to his four years in the Thurgood Marshall Law Academy, where he strengthened his interest in the role government plays in equity, justice, and opportunity. He now serves as president of the Future Lawyers Club and plays a central role in University High School’s annual Law Day.

Beyond academics, he is a well-rounded leader and student-athlete. Contreras is a member of the boys’ volleyball team, a 2023 Big Picture Contest winner, an intern at the Newark Museum, and an inducted member of multiple honor societies, including the National Honor Society. He actively gives back through community cleanups, fundraising initiatives, and participation in walks that raise awareness for important causes.

“Justin possesses such a strong determination to succeed that it pushes him to welcome new opportunities. He has embraced every opportunity to develop as a young man and scholar, taking full advantage of all the resources made available to him in our school,” said Principal Genique Flournoy-Hamilton.

Contreras expressed deep gratitude to his family, teachers, mentors, and the entire University High School community for supporting him every step of the way.

“The sky’s the limit for Justin,” Principal Flournoy-Hamilton added. “This is the start of an extraordinary journey.”