Galloway, N.J. — For Bryce Accardo, a senior History major from Vineland, helping fellow students strengthen their writing has become an important part of his Stockton University experience. 

Accardo was recently honored with the Paul D. Staller ’97 Writing Center Tutor Award, an annual award supported by the Stockton University Foundation that celebrates outstanding Writing Center tutors who embody the kindness and service that defined Paul’s time at Stockton. 

A transfer student, Accardo found connection and purpose at Stockton through the Writing Center and hopes to continue his studies in graduate school after completing his degree. 

Writing Center Coordinator Eddie Horan said Accardo quickly became someone students trusted.  

“Students who came to the center and really needed somebody started to gravitate toward Bryce,” Horan said. “He has a knack for sitting with someone and being patient. He makes students feel welcome and shows them they bring something valuable to the table.” 

“Bryce earned every bit of it,” Horan said. “We are a better Writing Center because of Paul’s memory and the generosity of the Staller family.” 

Accardo said the award carries special significance. 

“To be able to live up to Paul’s legacy in some way is an honor that gives me confidence to continue supporting the Writing Center’s mission,” Accardo said. “My gratitude to the Stallers is immeasurable, as their support allows us to be more than just a campus resource, but a community that aspires to uplift one another no matter the challenge.” 

At the annual gathering, the Stallers shared stories about Paul, recalling his grace, humor and willingness to help others. A 1997 graduate and Writing Center tutor, Paul brought those qualities to his work with fellow students. After his passing in 2014, Alan and Billie Staller, of Atlantic City, established the Paul D. Staller ’97 Writing Center Endowed Fund through the Stockton University Foundation to support future generations of student tutors. 

“We decided to do something for Stockton in our son’s name. What we wanted was a way to remember him, and it turns out we end up telling stories about him every year. It’s become a nice thing for us,” Alan Staller said. 

With his name now among past recipients, Accardo joins a group of students recognized for reflecting the care, patience and encouragement Paul brought to the Writing Center. 

About the Stockton University Foundation  

The Foundation’s mission is to remove barriers to student success at Stockton, providing resources to make higher education more attainable. The Foundation awards more than $1 million annually in scholarships directly to Stockton students and supports faculty research and other programs at the university with equipment and other support. Learn more about naming opportunities, memorials and tributes through the Stockton University Foundation. 

— Story and photo by Nikki Strothers