NJCU Unveils Initiative to Forge Stronger University-Community Ties

On Aug 23, 2024

New Jersey City University (NJCU), Jersey City, has created the NJCU President’s Community Advisory Council, an initiative designed to strengthen the bond between the university and its surrounding community. The establishment of the President’s Council seeks to formalize and strengthen the collaborative relationships that have been built with numerous stakeholders over the past 18 months, marking a significant step forward in canalizing mutual trust and support.

“We will continue to tether together the university and the local community by fostering collaboration and shared responsibility to build out the reach of our revitalized mission into its second century with meaningful and deliberate engagement,” said NJCU Interim President Andrés Acebo. “Through this initiative, NJCU is committed to working closely with community members to contribute to the growth and well-being of both the university mission and the region it serves with values-centered pillars worthy of the remarkable individuals our work touches and is privileged to serve.”

The following local leaders have accepted positions as part of President Acebo’s Community Advisory Council:

Silvia Abbato	Superintendent, Union City Public Schools
Annette Chapparo	Former Assemblywoman
Joseph Cossolini	President, Jersey City PBA
Luis de la Hoz	Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
Emory Edwards	President and CEO, Hudson County Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Norma Fernandez	Superintendent, Jersey City Public Schools
Gary Greenberg	Boys and Girls Club of Hudson County
Suraj Kaufman	CEO/Founder, Sneaker Room Jersey City
Patrick Kelleher	Hudson County Building and Construction Trades Council
Amy Lin-Rodriguez	Superintendent, Hudson County Schools of Technology
Tanya Marione	Director of City Planning (Jersey City)
Barbara Martinez	Executive Director, New Jersey Children’s Foundation
Tiffany McQueary	Development Officer, Jersey City Free Public Library
Carlos Medina	Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
John J. Niesz	Superintendent, City of Bayonne Public Schools
Michael Prilustsky	President and CEO, Jersey City Medical Center
Mira Prinz-Arey	Jersey City Councilwoman
Dr. Chris Reber	President, Hudson County Community College
Gabriel Rodriguez	Assemblyman
Christine Stoll	Legislative District 32 Aide

The NJCU President’s Community Advisory Council is committed to enhancing the university’s engagement with the local community through various collaborative initiatives. By prioritizing transparent communication and shared responsibility, the council will work to build a more connected and supportive community that promotes educational excellence, economic development, and social well-being. This mission aligns with NJCU’s core values of inclusivity, equity, and justice, ensuring that the university continues to be a force for positive change in the region.

The launch of the NJCU President’s Community Advisory Council underscores the university’s past efforts to create lasting bonds through local partnerships with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Hudson County Community College and Jersey City Police Benevolent Officers’ Association to create pathways for students and others who wish to further their education in an environment that prioritizes working hand-in-hand with the community for a brighter, more connected future. By fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility, NJCU is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of its students and the broader community.

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