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The Southern New Jersey Development Council (SNJDC) proudly hosted its inaugural 2025 Public Policy Speaker Series featuring New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Dr. Brian Bridges and State Senator Vin Gopal (D-11). Held at the DoubleTree Suites in Mount Laurel, the event brought together leaders in education, business, and government to discuss critical issues shaping the future of higher education and workforce development in New Jersey.
Dr. Nyeema Watson, Senior Vice Chancellor for Strategy, Diversity, and Community Engagement at Rutgers University-Camden, delivered the opening remarks at the event. Dr. Watson provided an overview of the university's strategic plan, which prioritizes fostering student success, advancing impactful research, and enhancing community engagement to promote societal progress and institutional growth.
In the roundtable discussion moderated by Dr. Brigid Harrison of Montclair State University, Secretary Bridges highlighted the state’s priorities in fostering student success, improving equity, and increasing affordability in higher education. He detailed ongoing initiatives such as expanding access to college opportunities for underrepresented groups, addressing food insecurity among students, and strengthening pathways between K-12 education and higher education institutions. Dr. Bridges also emphasized the importance of partnerships with community colleges and workforce programs to address the evolving needs of New Jersey’s economy.
Senator Gopal, a dedicated advocate for education and workforce development, shared insights on legislative priorities aimed at increasing state funding for schools and promoting innovative programs to bridge skill gaps in the labor market. He underscored the importance of collaboration among policymakers, educators, and business leaders to ensure New Jersey’s students are equipped to compete in a rapidly changing global economy.
The audience, which included key stakeholders from Southern New Jersey’s educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations, engaged in a robust Q&A session following the presentations. Topics ranged from the role of technology in education to strategies for addressing workforce shortages in critical industries.
“Today’s discussion reinforced the importance of collaboration between education and industry to prepare our students for the future,” said SNJDC President Marlene Asselta. “SNJDC is proud to provide a platform for these important conversations and to work with leaders like Secretary Bridges and Senator Gopal to drive meaningful change in our region.” This event, part of SNJDC’s 2025 Public Policy Speaker Series, aims to foster dialogue on issues critical to the growth and development of Southern New Jersey.
Photography courtesy of Stokes Creative Group!
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