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Cranford – UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ has been selected as one of just 16 institutions nationwide to participate in the National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) Institutional Mentorship Program. UCNJ is the only community college selected from the Northeast, placing the College among a select group of institutions working to expand applied artificial intelligence education and prepare students for an evolving workforce.

Through the yearlong initiative, UCNJ will work with NAAIC mentors and industry partners to develop industry-aligned applied AI credentials that connect academic learning with the skills employers increasingly expect. The program provides participating institutions with mentorship, professional development, industry-informed resources, and guidance to support curriculum development, faculty preparation, employer engagement, and sustainable AI education programs.

“Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way we live and work, and it is essential that our students are prepared for that future,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “UCNJ’s selection for this national initiative gives us an opportunity to translate innovation in AI into meaningful educational and career pathways for our students. We are committed to ensuring that they graduate with relevant skills that prepare them for successful careers and economic mobility.”

Representing UCNJ in this initiative are Agnes Drupka, Dean of Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Faraz Siddique, Dean of the STEM Division, and John Agar, Academic Specialist in Computer Science. Their work will help guide the College’s development of applied AI credentials and strengthen alignment between academic programs and workforce needs.

NAAIC connects community colleges, industry leaders, and educators nationwide to advance AI education and workforce development. Through its mentorship program, participating institutions learn from experienced colleges, access industry-informed resources, and build the capacity to develop sustainable AI programs that respond to workforce needs.

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

 

Cranford, NJ – New Jersey Senate President Nicholas P. Scutari joined the Union County Board of County Commissioner Chairman Joseph Bodek, Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca Williams, Commissioners Lourdes Leon, Stan Neron, and Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, along with UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ leaders, to announce $250,000 in support of the College’s Nourish the Future initiative, which addresses food insecurity and nutritional barriers facing Union County students.

The funding, provided by the Union County Board of County Commissioners through the County’s Social Services 2026 Grant Program, will strengthen UCNJ’s efforts to ensure that students have reliable access to food while pursuing their education. The investment reflects a shared commitment among state and county leaders and UCNJ to removing barriers that can prevent students from succeeding in College and achieving greater economic mobility. The County’s investment continues its longstanding partnership with UCNJ and builds upon previous support for the College’s food insecurity programs. In 2023, the Union County Board of County Commissioners provided $250,000 to support UCNJ initiatives, including Hoot’s Market, meal vouchers, and farmers’ markets. That support helped the College expand its efforts to provide students with immediate food assistance.

Through Nourish the Future, UCNJ will continue and expand several initiatives designed to address food insecurity among students. The College’s meal voucher program provides students with immediate access to hot, nutritious meals on campus. UCNJ’s on-campus food pantry offers emergency groceries and daily essentials, while farmers’ markets provide fresh produce to students at no cost.

“Students should not have to choose between purchasing a meal and paying for their education,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “We are incredibly grateful to Senate President Scutari and the Union County Board of County Commissioners for recognizing that meeting students’ basic needs is an important part of helping them remain focused on their education, complete their degrees, and build a better future for themselves and their families.”

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

Cranford, NJ – UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ student Leandro Batista of Union has been selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar, placing him among just 12 community college students selected across the tristate region for this prestigious recognition. The Kaplan Leadership Program recognizes community college students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, supporting high-achieving students as they pursue their educational and professional aspirations.

Batista is pursuing an associate degree in Psychology at UCNJ and has distinguished himself through academic achievement, campus leadership, and a strong commitment to research. He serves as President of UCNJ’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, the international honor society for two-year colleges, and Vice President of Psi Beta, the national honor society affiliated with the American Psychological Association. He also serves as President of the History Club and is a member of the Student Leadership Council, Brown Family Honors Program, and National Society of Leadership and Success.

His commitment to academic and research opportunities extends beyond UCNJ. This past summer, Batista participated in Princeton University’s Transfer Scholars Initiative (TSI), further strengthening his preparation for transfer and advanced study. Following his anticipated graduation from UCNJ in spring 2027, Batista plans to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue studies in psychiatric research and neuroscience, with the long-term goal of earning an MD-PhD focused on psychiatry and consciousness research. Ultimately, he hopes to establish a clinical research center or contribute to leading research teams in the field.

“Congratulations to Leandro on being selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar. This recognition reflects the academic excellence, leadership, and intellectual curiosity he has demonstrated throughout his time at the College,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “Leandro has embraced opportunities to lead, conduct research, and prepare for transfer to a four-year institution. His participation in TSI and his commitment to advancing research in speak to the ambition and purpose he brings to his education. We look forward to seeing how he continues to build on this foundation and contribute to his field.”

Batista’s selection as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar reflects the College’s commitment to high-impact educational experiences, student leadership, research, and transfer pathways that prepare students to pursue ambitious academic and professional goals.

For more information on UCNJ, go to https://www.ucc.edu/ and for more information on the Kaplan Leadership Scholar program, go to https://www.kaplanedfoundation.org/

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ welcomed three new members to its Boards this fall: Andrew Wallen of Berkeley Heights, Daryl Palmieri of Scotch Plains, and Oscar Salas of Cranford. The new members were sworn in during a joint meeting of the College’s Board of Trustees and Board of Governors in September. Mr. Wallen will serve on the Board of Trustees as an appointee of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, while Mr. Palmieri and Mr. Salas will serve on the Board of Governors.

Andrew Wallen is a union carpenter and U.S. Marine Corps veteran with extensive experience in commercial and industrial construction. A journeyman carpenter with the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, Mr. Wallen has worked on projects involving bridges, hospitals, airports, schools, and office complexes. During his military service, he served as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he held leadership roles overseeing personnel, training, and operations.

Daryl Palmieri returns to UCNJ’s Board of Governors after previously serving on the Board of Trustees as Interim Executive County Superintendent for Union County. He has nearly 25 years of experience in public education and currently serves as Chief of Operations and Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources at Elizabeth Public Schools. In his role overseeing human resources, he manages the district’s talent, labor relations, and personnel policies. He also oversees operations, including the logistics and physical safety of learning environments. Mr. Palmieri is a graduate of Manhattan College and Kean University. He is currently studying in a doctoral program at Grand Canyon University.

Oscar Salas is a 2011 UCNJ alumnus and a finance professional with more than 10 years of experience in financial planning and analysis. He currently serves as a Senior Manager and Finance Business Partner at Moody’s, where he works with senior leadership on financial planning, forecasting, strategic initiatives, and business performance. Previously, Mr. Salas served as a Vice President at BNY Mellon, where he managed a $1.5 billion business unit. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with concentrations in finance and statistics and an MBA in finance, both from Montclair State University.

“We are pleased to welcome Andrew, Daryl, and Oscar to UCNJ’s Boards,” said UCNJ Board of Trustees Chairman Rafael J. Betancourt, Esq. “Each brings a unique combination of professional experience, leadership, and commitment to our community. Their expertise in education, finance, workforce development, and public service will provide valuable perspectives as we continue to advance UCNJ’s mission and support student success.”

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

Cranford – The Union County College Foundation will host its 2026 Illuminate the Future Gala on October 29 at the Westwood, 438 North Avenue in Garwood, New Jersey, with doors opening at 6 p.m. This year, the Foundation will be honoring Mark E. Manigan, Dr. Maris Lown, and PSEG for their leadership, service, and commitment to UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ.

Mark E. Manigan, President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health, will receive the 2026 Man of the Year Award. Under his leadership, RWJBarnabas Health has expanded access to healthcare and strengthened its role as a community partner throughout New Jersey. The organization has also partnered with UCNJ to support nursing education and workforce development, creating pathways for students to pursue careers in healthcare.

Dr. Maris A. Lown, UCNJ Executive Vice President and Provost, will receive the 2026 Fiat Lux Award. Dr. Lown has served UCNJ since 2011 and currently oversees Academic Affairs, Student Development, and Administrative Services. A nursing educator and higher education leader, she has held numerous leadership positions in professional and community organizations and has supported UCNJ students through both her leadership and philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of a scholarship for UCNJ students.

PSEG will receive the 2026 Corporate Partner of the Year Award in recognition of its support of UCNJ students, education, workforce development, and economic opportunity. PSEG’s partnership with the Foundation has supported programs and initiatives that help students overcome barriers to education and prepare for careers.

The Illuminate the Future Gala supports the Union County College Foundation’s efforts to provide scholarships, emergency assistance, and other resources that help UCNJ students remain enrolled and complete their education. Foundation support helps address financial barriers that can prevent students from achieving their academic and career goals.

“The support raised at the Foundation’s annual gala directly helps students access scholarships, emergency assistance, and other resources that can make the difference between facing financial barriers and being able to continue their education and reach graduation. We are grateful to this year’s honorees and to everyone who continues to support UCNJ students and their futures,” stated UCNJ’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement Douglas Rouse.

Tickets are available for the Union County College Foundation Gala, with sponsorship opportunities also offered. For more information on the Union County College Foundation Gala, please visit ucc.edu/gala2026, contact the Foundation office at (908) 709-7505 or email foundation@ucc.edu.

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

Cranford – UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ Vice President of External Affairs and Government Relations Dr. Jaime M. Segal has been named the 2026 Northeast Regional Professional Board Staff Member of the Year by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The award recognizes the Northeast Region’s outstanding board secretary and professional board staff member for exemplary leadership and service. This marks the second time Dr. Segal has earned this distinguished regional honor. As the Northeast Regional recipient, Dr. Segal is now a finalist for the 2026 ACCT Professional Board Staff Member of the Year award. The national honoree will be announced during the ACCT Leadership Congress in Chicago this October.

Dr. Segal has served as UCNJ’s Board Secretary since 2017, providing strategic leadership in support of the College’s Board of Trustees and Board of Governors. She oversees the preparation and dissemination of board materials, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations and Board bylaws, and helps advance effective institutional governance. In addition, Dr. Segal leads the College’s government relations efforts, serving as UCNJ’s primary liaison to local, state, and federal agencies while strengthening strategic partnerships that advance the College’s mission.

“Dr. Segal’s leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to UCNJ have strengthened our institution and expanded opportunities for our students,” said Chairman of the UCNJ Board of Trustees Rafael J. Betancourt. “Her dedication to sound governance, public service, and collaborative leadership has earned the respect of colleagues throughout the region. This recognition is a well-deserved reflection of her outstanding contributions to our College and the community we serve.”

Dr. Jaime Segal earned a Bachelor of Science degree from The Pennsylvania State University and a Juris Doctor from Rutgers Law School. A lifelong Union County resident, she remains deeply committed to serving the community through her leadership at UCNJ.

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

Cranford – The County College Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: Stacy Greiner, Aquila Leon-Soon, and Nate Vaughn.

Stacy Greiner, of New Providence, previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of DailyPay. She also serves on the Board of Directors and Audit Committee of Protolabs, bringing expertise in executive leadership, corporate governance, technology, and organizational strategy. With her husband, Chris, they recently established the Greiner Launch Scholarship for high-achieving UCNJ graduates pursuing their bachelor’s degrees at Rutgers University or the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Aquila Leon-Soon, of Cranford, is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ATS+Partners. An active community leader with decades of nonprofit board service, Ms. Leon-Soon brings deep experience in organizational leadership, strategic partnerships, and community engagement.

Nate Vaughn, of Plainfield, serves as Senior Client Partner at Korn Ferry. A passionate advocate for education and mentorship, Mr. Vaughn brings extensive experience in strategic planning, executive search, and workforce development that will help strengthen the Foundation’s mission and community partnerships.

The Union County College Foundation advances its mission of transforming lives through education by providing scholarships, emergency assistance, and innovative student success initiatives. The addition of these three board members further strengthens the Foundation’s ability to expand its impact at a time when student need remains significant across the region.

“We are delighted to welcome Stacy, Aquila, and Nate to the Foundation Board,” said Doug Rouse, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Each member brings leadership experience, a passion for student success, and a commitment to strengthening our community. Their collective expertise will help advance the Foundation’s mission and create even greater opportunities for UCNJ students to achieve their academic and career goals.”

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

 

Rafael J. Betancourt, Esq. has been elected Chairman of the UCNJ Board of Trustees effective July 1, 2026. The election occurred at the Board’s June Meeting upon the retirement of longtime board chairman Dr. Victor M. Richel.

Mr. Betancourt joined the UCNJ Board of Governors in 2017 and the Board of Trustees in 2020. He has held the role of Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees since 2020 and actively contributed to multiple key Board committees, supporting governance, fiscal oversight, and strategic decision-making. From 2022 to 2025, he served as board liaison to the College’s Middle States Steering Committee, helping guide the accreditation process and strengthen institutional accountability. Most recently, he was selected as one of three UCNJ trustees to participate in the Aspen Presidents & Trustees Collaborative, an Aspen Institute College Excellence initiative that helps community college leaders and boards align their governance practices to boost student success and sustain transformational change.

Professionally, Mr. Betancourt is a partner at Triarsi, Betancourt, Wukovits & Dugan, LLC, a law firm based in Cranford, and has served as an FBI Special Agent, Assistant Prosecutor for Union County, and Municipal Prosecutor and Acting Mayor for the Town of Westfield. He also served as an adjunct instructor at UCNJ from 2008 to 2012. Upon Mr. Betancourt’s election as Chairman, Board of Trustees member Brian Campbell (UCNJ ’95), of Berkeley Heights, was elected to serve as Vice Chair.

Mr. Betancourt, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico, resides in Westfield with his wife, Esperanza, and has two sons. He earned a B.A. from Tulane University and a J.D. from the University of Puerto Rico.

“I am excited to work alongside Mr. Betancourt as we begin this next chapter for UCNJ. He is deeply committed to our Mission and shares our unwavering focus on student success: from fostering a strong sense of belonging on campus to ensuring our graduates are prepared to thrive in their careers and communities. I look forward to partnering with him to build on our strong foundation and continue creating opportunities that transform lives,” stated UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin.

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society for high-achieving community college students, has named Nickey Kuhn of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ as a World Impact Scholar, an honor recognizing students pursuing degrees and certificates in programs that support economic opportunity and workforce needs in communities across World Cup host regions.

Supported by a donation from Coca-Cola North America, the World Impact Scholars program celebrates community college students enrolled in degree and certificate programs that prepare them to contribute to their local economies and meet real workforce needs. Kuhn, of Linden, is pursuing a degree in respiratory care.

The World Impact Scholarship recognizes outstanding community college students in cities where the 2026 FIFA World Cup^TM will be held who are pursuing high-demand careers aligned with real workforce needs. Through high-quality workforce programs and hands-on learning at community colleges, students are choosing educational pathways that expand economic mobility and translate into meaningful contributions that strengthen their local communities and regional economies.

“We are honored that Coca-Cola has invested in the World Impact Scholars,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “Degrees and certificates from community colleges are powerful economic tools, and our World Impact Scholars are among the very best examples of students demonstrating leadership in high-demand fields that matter to their communities and to the future of our workforce.”

“We are incredibly proud of Nickey for being recognized as a World Impact Scholar by PTK,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “Her selection reflects not only her academic achievement and leadership, but also her commitment to using her talents to address real-world challenges and strengthen our communities. At UCNJ, we are committed to empowering students to achieve their full potential and create meaningful impact both locally and globally.”

For Nickey, this recognition highlights both academic achievement and a commitment to applying education in ways that benefit their community. World Impact Scholars will be recognized locally and internationally.

About UCNJ

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

About Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them grow as scholars and leaders. The Society serves more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide. Learn more at ptk.org.

 

Cranford – Four UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ students recently presented original research at the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium (NJSGC) Annual Meeting and Poster Session at Rutgers University, culminating a highly competitive, NASA-sponsored internship experience that engaged students in cutting-edge scientific and engineering research.

Representing UCNJ were engineering students Karen Agudelo of Linden, Erika Reid of Union, and Emmanuel Martinez of Rahway, along with cybersecurity student Marisa Fuentes of Elizabeth. Selected through the NJSGC Undergraduate Research Internship Program, the students spent the academic year conducting faculty-mentored research aligned with NASA mission areas and emerging challenges in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Guided by Chemistry Academic Specialist Dr. Sunjin Jo and Engineering Professor Jennifer Ebert, the students explored topics ranging from transit innovation and astrophysics data pipelines to material analysis for future lunar infrastructure and the modularity of launch vehicle systems. Their work was presented alongside research conducted by approximately 60 student interns from colleges and universities across New Jersey.

The NJSGC internship program provides undergraduate students with hands-on research experiences, professional mentorship, and opportunities to contribute to projects connected to NASA priorities. The program is designed to strengthen New Jersey’s STEM talent pipeline while preparing students for advanced study and careers in science, engineering, cybersecurity, and technology.

“These students exemplify the curiosity, determination, and academic excellence that drive innovation,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “Through opportunities like the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium, our students are not only applying what they learn in the classroom, they are contributing to research that addresses real-world challenges and advances scientific discovery. We are incredibly proud of Karen, Erika, Emmanuel, and Marisa for representing UCNJ on a statewide stage and demonstrating the extraordinary talent that exists within our College community.”

The students’ participation reflects UCNJ’s commitment to expanding access to high-impact learning experiences that connect academic study with research, innovation, and career preparation. Through partnerships with organizations such as NASA and the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium, UCNJ students gain opportunities typically associated with four-year research universities while building the skills and experiences that position them for future success.

UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.