WILKES BARRE, PA — The Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Society of Highway Engineers established an endowed scholarship at Wilkes University in memory of Charles "Chuck" Mattei, former district engineer for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Representatives from the society presented a $50,000 check establishing the scholarship.

Mattei, who passed away in 2003, was PennDOT's District 4-0 engineer from 1986 to 2003. He was responsible for many notable projects, including the Interstate 81 interchange at Montage Mountain that was dedicated in his name. Mattei was also an assistant professor of environmental science and head coach of the men's lacrosse team at Wilkes for many years.
First established in 2005, The Charles Mattei Scholarship has provided two $1,250 scholarships annually to Wilkes students pursuing engineering degrees. Wilkes President Tim Gilmour said the endowed scholarship will benefit generations of students and thanked ASHE "for their commitment to Mr. Mattei's memory."

Recipients of The Charles Mattei Scholarship must demonstrate strong academic performance with a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher and show evidence of service to the community and others. Students from northeastern Pennsylvania are given special consideration in awarding the scholarship.