David Hespe, Former NJ Education Chief, is Joining SSE&C Law

On Nov 2, 2016

David C. Hespe, Esq., who served twice as New Jersey’s Commissioner of Education and is an authority on public education in the state and nationally, will join the Whippany-based law firm of Schwartz Simon Edelstein & Celso on November 1.

Hespe will be Of Counsel to the firm, which represents more than 100 school districts as well as private and charter schools across the state.

He comes to SSE&C with a broad background in educational and legal leadership positions, including as president of Burlington County College and First Assistant New Jersey Attorney General.

“David is a huge asset to our already strong Education Department,” said Stephen J. Edelstein, a partner at the firm. “Our clients will benefit tremendously from his insights and expertise. David has a deep understanding of the issues faced by districts and schools, and he has been on center stage in proposing solutions,” Edelstein added.

During his tenure as state Education Commissioner, Hespe expanded early childhood education programs, opportunities in urban school districts and use of technology in the classroom. He also cut red tape, enhanced teacher training and improved professional support.

Hespe is looking forward to joining SSE&C. “I have interacted professionally with this firm over the years and admire its lawyers and find SSEC’s reputation to be second to none.”  Hespe added: “I intend to work with the group to grow the practice area and continue to provide solid representation and sound legal advice to all of our clients.”

SSE&C’s Education Department represents clients in general education, labor and employment, labor negotiations, special education, procurement and contracting, construction and Open Public Records Act matters.

Hespe, a resident of Belle Mead, served as Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education from 2014 until September of this year, and previously from 1999 to 2001.  In that role, he oversaw 600 school districts.

He also has served as Chief of Staff to Education Commissioner Christopher Cerf, Interim Co-Executive Director of STEM education at Liberty Science Center, Interim and Assistant Superintendent of Schools in the Willingboro School District, and Chair and Associate Professor of the Educational Leadership Department at Rowan University.

Hespe is a frequent speaker and writer on education policy, school reform and school financing/funding, among other topics.

He graduated from Rutgers University School of Law-Newark and Rutgers College and is licensed to practice in New Jersey and New York.

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