In an effort designed to strengthen the bond between New Jersey City University and the surrounding community, the school announced Thursday that it has created a President’s Community Advisory Council that will help advise on and contribute to the school’s mission.
Interim NJCU President Andrés Acebo said the initiative 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 creating 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,” he said.
“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 president’s Community Advisory Council will include community leaders, anchor organizations, elected officials, local business owners and others committed to NJCU’s mission.
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 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.
Here’s a look at the council members:
- Silvia Abbato, superintendent, Union City Public Schools
- Annette Chapparo, former assemblywoman
- Joseph Cossolini, president, Jersey City PBA
- Luis de la Hoz, chair, Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
- Emory Edwards, CEO, Hudson County Chamber of Commerce
- Norma Fernandez, superintendent, Jersey City Public Schools
- Gary Greenberg, Boys and Girls Club of Hudson County
- Floyd Jeter, chief diversity officer, City of Jersey City
- Suraj Kaufman, founder/CEO, 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, City of Jersey City
- Barbara Martinez, executive director, New Jersey Children’s Foundation
- Tiffany McQueary, development officer, Jersey City Free Public Library
- Carlos Medina, CEO, Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
- John Niesz, superintendent, City of Bayonne Public Schools
- Michael Prilustsky, CEO, Jersey City Medical Center
- Mira Prinz-Arey, Jersey City councilwoman
- Chris Reber, president, Hudson County Community College
- Gabriel Rodriguez, assemblyman
- Christine Stoll, Legislative District 32 aide
