John and Neta Kolasa Scholarship
Dr. Neta Kolasa was born in Detroit, Michigan and since the 1970’s, has made South Florida her home. An esteemed Alum of Barry University School of Social Work (MSW, ’75), Dr. Kolasa went on to earn a Doctorate in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. She has always remained closely connected with Barry University. Married to her childhood sweetheart John Kolasa, who died in 1995, Dr. Kolasa and her husband created a life together that exemplified the Adrian Dominican mission and the mission of Barry University. John Kolasa was a dedicated member of the Board of Trustees. He also served as chair of the finance committee, and a member of the Barry executive, investment, and audits committees. Following John Kolasa’s death, Dr. Neta Kolasa agreed to maintain her husband’s seat on Barry’s Board of Trustees. Since 1996, she has been an active and committed member of the Board and a valuable member of the Barry community. Through the philanthropy and skillful management of the Kolasa Trust and Foundation, Dr. Kolasa continues to give back and honor the memory of her husband. She is a woman of extraordinary talent, commitment, and generosity. Steadfast in her faith, she is an inspired artist, author, a dedicated lifelong learner, and an outstanding model of integrity and professionalism to the future generations of social works.
