History of NJAREF

The New Jersey Association of REALTORS^® Educational Foundation (NJAREF) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1969 to foster education, promote knowledge, conduct research and assist in the education of students pursuing a college or university degree.

The establishment of NJAREF was unanimously approved in 1968 during the annual Triple Play REALTOR^® Convention & Trade Expo in Atlantic City. Following incorporation, the Foundation received its first major gift of $10,000 from the New Jersey Association of REALTORS^® (NJAR^®) in 1969. Other significant contributions followed including a generous gift by REALTOR^® member Nancy F. Reynolds. Nancy was the first president and one of the original trustees of NJAREF. She was also past president of NJAR^® and of the Westfield Board of REALTORS^®. Upon her passing, a bequest was made to the Foundation. Each year two scholarships of $2,000 each are presented as the Nancy F. Reynolds Awards.

Additional funding comes from local boards and associations of REALTORS^® or other foundations who make a memorial contribution.