PARSIPPANY –- Carina Maroldi, a lifelong Parsippany resident and high school senior in the Multimedia Academy at Morris County School of Technology, has been named the first-place winner of the Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition for VFW Post 10184, representing Parsippany. The award ceremony, held on January 4, 2026, at the Morris Plains VFW, recognized students throughout Morris County for their responses to the national theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
During the event, Maroldi received a scholarship and a Certificate of Merit designating her as an “Outstanding Spokesperson for Freedom.” The honors were presented by local officials, including Michael dePierro of Parsippany.
In her winning submission, Maroldi detailed her family’s history of military service, specifically citing her great-grandfather, an Italian immigrant and long-time Parsippany resident who was drafted into World War II. She described how his service is commemorated in her home with a shadow box containing an American flag and items from his military service.
Maroldi wrote about her plans to pursue a career in education to provide a stable presence for students and help prepare a mentally and physically strong next generation. She noted that being a teacher offers the opportunity to have an uplifting impact on the day-to-day lives of children, which in turn supports families and the broader community. Maroldi intends to apply her scholarship toward these professional goals. Maroldi serves as the Co-President of both the Key Club and the Literary Club at her school. Since her freshman year, she has worked as a year-round lifeguard and swim instructor for an indoor pool. During summers, she also serves as a Parsippany Recreation Camp Counselor. She is a member of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS).
The Voice of Democracy program is a national competition established by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Auxiliary. Maroldi’s award was signed by VFW Commander Basil D’Armiento and Chairman John E. Titterton.
