Mary Zimmermann, a member of the board of trustees of Union College of Union County and chairwoman of the college’s board of governors, has been reelected chair of New Jersey Council of County Colleges, according to a Thursday announcement.
The NJCCC provides statewide leadership and support of New Jersey’s 18 community colleges.
“As chair of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges, I represent New Jersey’s community college trustees and students at all 18 community colleges. I support New Jersey’s community college presidents and ensure the council leads collaborative efforts for the benefit of the colleges and our students throughout the state,” Zimmermann said. “My goal is to help students achieve their dream of attending college so they may continue their education or gain skills for a good career or job.”
Zimmermann, of Summit, is a self-described “professional volunteer.” She is also a member and prior chair of the Union County College Foundation board. In addition to serving on the boards, Zimmermann has the distinction of being a proud graduate of the college.
Zimmermann was first elected chair of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges in 2021 and reelected chair on Dec. 5, at the quarterly council meeting. Zimmermann is a prior member of the Association of Community College Trustees’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. In 2019, she received the 2019 Women of Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award given by the Union County Commission on the Status of Women. Additionally, Zimmermann volunteers with many organizations. She is active with Meals on Wheels and the food pantry at St. Teresa of Avila Church. She is also past chair of the Summit Housing Authority, where she served for 16 years. The SHA owns and manages 195 low-rent family, elderly and handicapped housing units.
“New Jersey’s 18 community colleges are truly fortunate to have Mary’s dedication and vision as the chair of the council. Her commitment and passion for New Jersey’s 18 community colleges and their students are incredible, and we all look forward to another year of her leadership,” Aaron Fichtner, NJCCC president said.
Also elected to council leadership was Sheetal Ranjan, of Bergen Community College, as vice chair. Trustees-at-large elected were Jessica Stewart, of Camden County College, and Dorothy Hall, of Salem Community College. Members elected were Anthony Iacono, of County College of Morris, as secretary, Michael R. Gorman, of Salem Community College, as treasurer, and Barbara Gaba, of Atlantic Cape Community College, as president-at-large.
