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Cranford, NJ – Three UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ students majoring in computer programs have been selected as semifinalists for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation (JKCF) Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. This highly competitive JKCF award provides up to $55,000 per year for two to three years to support recipients in completing their bachelor’s degree at any accredited four-year undergraduate institution in the United States.

The UCNJ semifinalists were selected from a pool of more than 1,600 applicants nationwide. To qualify, students must have at least a 3.5 GPA, demonstrate exceptional academic ability, leadership, and demonstrate financial need. Finalists will receive not only a significant financial award, but also educational advising, access to internship opportunities, study abroad experiences, graduate school funding, and connections to a network of more than 3,400 fellow Cooke scholars and alumni.

The UCNJ semifinalists are:

Faris Areiqat, from Elizabeth, is majoring in computer science. A dedicated student leader, he is a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the President of the Computer Science Club, a member of both the men’s volleyball team and the Esports team, and a tutor at the College’s Academic Learning Center (ALC). Areiqat plans to continue his education in computer science with a focus on programming at a four-year institution, with future plans to open his own business.

Odudu Ekpenyong, from Springfield, is also pursuing a computer science degree. He serves as Vice President of Public Relations for PTK, Vice President of the Entrepreneurs Club, is a member of the Cybersecurity Club, an Union Honors scholar, and works part-time at the College’s Student Service Center. After earning his associate degree, he plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aviation science with a concentration in professional piloting, aiming to become an airline captain and mentor underrepresented pilots. Notably, Ekpenyong was selected as a 2024 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar, an honor awarded to only 210 PTK scholars nationwide.

Samir Perez, also from Elizabeth, is majoring in computer information systems technology. He is a PTK member, President of the Latin Legacy Club, an Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) student, an ALC tutor, and was recently named a Kaplan Leadership Program scholar. After graduating from UCNJ, Perez will transfer and plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems, and pursue leadership roles in the field. His goal is to support small businesses through technology and innovation while proudly representing his heritage and culture.

UCNJ’s President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin praised the students, stating, “On behalf of the UCNJ community, I want to extend my congratulations to Faris, Odudu, and Samir for being recognized as semifinalists for the distinguished Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Transfer Scholarship. We are proud of their achievements and excited to see how they advance in their academic and professional careers. We strive to provide our students with the support and opportunities they need to accomplish their dreams.”

Giuseppe “Seppy” Basili, Executive Director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, underscored the significance of this award sharing, “Our Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship represents a lifeline for exceptional community college students to actualize their academic dreams. This year’s semifinalists exemplify the extraordinary talent found within community colleges across America, and we’re excited to congratulate this group as we celebrate a quarter century of work as a Foundation.”

The finalists for the JKCF Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship are expected to be announced in May 2025.

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 10 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 students, faculty, and staff welcomed Congressman Robert Menendez (NJ-08) to the Elizabeth Campus in February. The Congressman toured the College’s School of Nursing, part of the RWJBarnabas Health system where he observed a high-tech simulation mannequin used for hands-on training. He also spoke with students in one of the non-credit English as a Second Language (ESL) class.

The College receives significant support from the County, elected officials, and a variety of grants to help the students. The funding obtained provides Union County residents with access and preparation to in-demand workforce training. Additionally, UCNJ graduates successfully transfer and work in careers that allow them to earn a family sustaining wage. To check out photos from this visit, click here.

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 10 community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

UCNJ Demonstrates Commitment to Becoming a Learning Environment Where Latino, and All, Students Thrive

Cranford, NJ – Excelencia in Education, the nation’s premier authority on efforts accelerating Latino student success in higher education, announced today President McMenamin of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ has chosen to affiliate with the national network of Presidents for Latino Student Success (P4LSS). The network comprises a group of presidents and chancellors who have committed to making their campuses learning environments where Latino, and all, students thrive.

Excelencia formed our network of common cause in 2011 and Presidents for Latino Student Success in 2014 to support institutional leaders who are transforming higher education to make our country stronger with the contributions, skills, and talents of Latino college graduates. Programs and initiatives that work for Latinos can serve other students as well, and thus the nation at large.

Through the P4LSS network, President McMenamin will collaborate with Excelencia and other postsecondary leaders to leverage collective expertise and resources, foster partnerships, and amplify current efforts to accelerate Latino student success in higher education at the national level.

“Institutional leadership focused on intentionally serving Latino, and all, students is the hallmark of the presidents and chancellors in this network,” said Sarita Brown, co-founder and president of Excelencia in Education. “We are proud to catalyze and support them as they advance student success and grow talent for our country’s bright future.”

Dr. McMenamin joins more than 150 leaders that belong to the P4LSS network and lead the nation in enrolling and graduating Latino students. Although the network represents only 5% of the thousands of colleges and universities across the country, the network enrolls 32%, and graduates 34%, of all Latino students in higher education.

“On behalf of the UCNJ Boards, I want to congratulate President McMenamin and the entire UCNJ community for their leadership and commitment to student success. This affiliation with Excelencia reinforces the College’s dedication to provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students to excel. We look forward to the continued impact this partnership will create” stated UCNJ Board of Trustees Chair Victor M. Richel.

Excelencia is honored to make common cause with the action-oriented, trendsetting presidents and chancellors who have answered our national call to accelerate Latino student success in higher education and ensure America’s future. To learn more about the Presidents for Latino Student Success network and other institutional leaders across the country affiliated with Excelencia, visit: EdExcelencia.org/leadership/presidents-latino-student-success

About UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ

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 10 community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.

About Excelencia in Education

In 2024, Excelencia in Education marked 20 years of service accelerating Latino student success in higher education by promoting Latino student achievement, conducting analysis to inform educational policies, and advancing institutional practices while collaborating with those committed and ready to meet the mission. Excelencia has established a network of results-oriented educators and policymakers to address the U.S. economy’s needs for a highly educated workforce and engaged civic leaders. For more information, visit: EdExcelencia.org

CRANFORD, NJ – UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ is proud to announce that President Margaret M. McMenamin was honored by the Elizabeth Development Company (EDC). The award was presented to Dr. McMenamin on EDC’s 9^th Annual Leadership Award Reception at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.

Dr. McMenamin was appointed as president of the College in July 2010 and is its first female president. Under her leadership, the College has seen drastic improvements to student success outcomes, particularly the graduation rates. In 2020, Dr. McMenamin was named the National Marie Y. Martin CEO of the Year by the Association of Community College Trustees. She was honored by the Urban League of Union County as the recipient of the 2023 Ella S. Teal President Award and also named the 2023 Woman of the Year by the Irish Business Association of New Jersey, part of the Greater Westfield Area Chamber Commerce. Dr. McMenamin received the award President McMenamin was named to the 2024 NJBIZ Education Power 50. This list profiles the most influential education professionals in New Jersey. In addition, UCNJ as one of only ten finalists nationwide eligible for the $1 million 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

“We are proud to see President McMenamin recognized by the Elizabeth Development Company for her outstanding leadership and dedication to the community. Her impact on UCNJ through her commitment to student success has been remarkable. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor” stated UCNJ Board of Trustees Chair Victor M. Richel.

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 10 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 celebrated its Winter Commencement on January 9, 2024, at the historic Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway. Two ceremonies were held for more than 700 graduates who received their Associate in Science, Associate in Arts, and Associate in Applied Science Degrees, and Certificates. The graduates completed their degrees in either August or December 2024.

UCNJ’s President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin served as the Master of Ceremonies and welcomed graduates and attendees to the celebration. Each ceremony included a student speaker who was selected to speak to their class. The student speakers were Carlos León Hernandez, of Elizabeth, and Elijah Z. Frieson, of Rahway.

The Alumni Prize was presented to William Becerra, of Elizabeth who graduated with a 3.98 and Adriana Lara of Westfield, who graduated with a 3.94 GPA. The Abdallah-Thomas Memorial Award, which was established in memory of UCNJ alumni, is awarded to two graduating students who have at least a 3.25 GPA, have participated in college life activities and/or sports, and have completed community service. The recipients this year were Mr. León Hernandez, Sabeen Rao, and Frank Ulrich.

“On behalf of the UCNJ community, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025. Their commitment to excellence, perseverance, and hard work throughout their coursework at UCNJ has been admirable. Whether they are continuing their education at another institution or entering the workforce, I look forward to seeing their collective success and wish them the best in their future endeavors” stated President 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 10 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 – The UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ Esports team won the National Junior Athletic Association Esports (NJCAAE) Championship for Call of Duty. In a two versus two matchup, student-players Bryan Carrillo and Paulo Matias won the title and broke the previous seasonal record by staying undefeated with 19 wins this season.

National champions Carillo and Matias have played on UCNJ’s Esports team for two years. Carrillo, of Plainfield, is studying Criminal Justice at UCNJ and is involved with several College engagement destinations. Carrillo also plays on the Men’s volleyball team, is a student worker on campus, and is involved as a student club leader. Matias, of Linden, is the captain of the Esports team and pursuing a degree in Fire Science Technology. This is not Matias’ first championship ring. He also earned the national champion title for Call of Duty in 2023. Matias is a tutor at UCNJ’s Academic Learning Center and is also a student club leader.

The Esports team was also named the NJCAAE Regional Champions for both Call of Duty and Fortnite. The players for Fortnite included Felix Parades, Tamir Reddick, and Roger Fortunato. The College launched its Esports program in fall 2018. At the time, UCNJ was the first two-year college in New Jersey and only one of 63 nationwide to the program.

“On behalf of the UCNJ community, I want to extend my congratulations to Bryan and Paulo for not only their national win, but for being undefeated the entire season. Both of these well-rounded students are showcasing their skills not only in Esports, but in their commitment to various on-campus activities. At UCNJ, we welcome every student to showcase their talents, both in the classroom, visiting our on-campus learning destinations, or by joining our athletic teams, clubs, and organizations,” stated UCNJ’s 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 10 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 is proud to announce that student Samir Perez, of Elizabeth, has been selected as a Kaplan Leadership scholar. Perez is one of only 11 students recognized in the tristate area for this leadership opportunity.  The Kaplan Leadership Program targets students at two-year schools who demonstrate educational acumen, leadership potential, and financial need.

Born in Cuba and immigrating to the United States fourteen years ago, Perez decided to begin his education at UCNJ after learning about the educational programs, extracurricular activities, and the opportunity for growth and connection at the College. He is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, President of the Latin Legacy Club, an Educational Opportunity Fund program student, and a tutor at the Academic Learning Center.

This spring, Perez will be graduating from UCNJ and will be pursuing his education in Computer Information Systems. Regarding his future, his career goal is to become a business analyst, a program manager, or a software engineer.

“We are incredibly proud of Samir’s acceptance into the prestigious Kaplan Leadership Program. Samir’s academic achievements, hard work, and leadership skills have set a high standard at the College, and we cannot wait to see all that he will accomplish and learn as a Kaplan Scholar. At UCNJ, we are committed to fostering an environment where students like Samir can pursue their dreams and make connections both inside and outside of the classroom” stated 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 10 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 announced it welcomed the largest number of new students this fall. In an environment of declining enrollment at colleges and universities across the country, the College has taken proactive measures to increase student access, provide critical support to help ensure success once students enroll, and improve the value of their credentials.

Thanks to the generous support of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, UCNJ receives critical operating funding which has helped keep tuition low with no increases for the past five years. In addition to keeping tuition low, the College offers flat-rate tuition which allows students to pay the same cost for 12 to 18 credits. Finally, through the State’s Community College Opportunity Grant, qualifying students whose family income is $100,000 or less may also be eligible to attend tuition-free.

Students who enroll at UCNJ are doing so at one of the top community colleges in the country. UCNJ has been named as a one of only 10 finalists for the 2025 Aspen Prize by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. The institutions selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success, as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds.

The College’s Office of Admissions has developed a Strategic Enrollment Management plan with specific data-informed goals enrollment. By promoting new student orientations, hosting open houses, and providing more face-to-face time with faculty and staff who support students on their journey, UCNJ achieved a 13% growth in new student enrollment. In addition, the College continues to evaluate and enhance the value-added for their certifications and degrees to help graduates obtain living wages for in-demand occupations in the region.

“We are thrilled to welcome the largest class of first-year students in UCNJ’s history. This milestone is a reflection of the hard work and dedication the UCNJ community has to transforming our community, one student at a time. We welcome all students who seek to change their lives through higher education. Students at UCNJ receive support from our expert faculty and devoted staff who are focused on helping students achieve their dreams,” 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 and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to a Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research hub. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top 10 community colleges in the country for 2025 as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more, visit www.ucc.edu.

 

CRANFORD, NJ – Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin, President of UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, has been named to the 2024 NJBIZ Education Power 50. This list profiles the most influential education professionals in New Jersey.

Dr. McMenamin has served as president of UCNJ since 2010. She set forth an aggressive agenda focusing on student success outcomes. Under her leadership, the College’s graduation has more than quintupled. This year, the Aspen Institute named UCNJ as one of 10 finalists for the prestigious $1 million 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. In 2020, Dr. McMenamin was named the National Marie Y. Martin CEO of the Year by the Association of Community College Trustees. Dr. McMenamin is involved with numerous community organizations, including the Boards of Trinitas Hospital, UCPAC, the New Jersey Israel Commission, and the NJ-PBS Community Advisory Board. In 2015, she was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Union County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. McMenamin for receiving this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication to advancing education, especially amongst first generation and lower income populations, is truly inspiring, and this accolade is a testament to her outstanding contributions to higher education in New Jersey,” stated UCNJ Board of Trustees Chairman Victor M. Richel.

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 and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to a Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research hub. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top 10 community colleges in the country for 2025 as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more, visit www.ucc.edu.

CRANFORD, NJ – Join the Union County College Foundation on Wednesday, October 30 for the 32nd Annual Scholarship Gala. The event will be held at the Westwood in Garwood beginning at 6 pm and the theme is “Harvesting Dreams.” This year, the Foundation will be honoring Elizabethtown Gas President Christie McMullen and UCNJ Professor William Dunscombe.

The Gala is the Foundation’s signature fundraising event of the year providing financial support for students at UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ. This support helps to ensure that students’ economic status is not a roadblock to academic success. The Foundation allocates resources for scholarships, food insecurity, emergency funding, and more.

This year, Christie McMullen, President and COO of Elizabethtown Gas, is being honored as the 2024 Woman of the Year in recognition of her commitment to and support of the College’s mission and students. William “Bill” Dunscombe, Professor and Dean of STEM at UCNJ will receive the 2024 Fiat Lux Award in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the County, the College, and the students. A resident of New Providence, Dean Dunscombe has been at the College for more than 50 years.

“We are looking forward to celebrating our honorees. Ms. McMullen and Dean Dunscombe embody spirit of excellence, dedication, and service that inspires us all. They are helping ensure that we fulfil our mission of transforming our community, one student at a time. Their contributions, and the generosity of all who support the College’s Foundation, remind us of the incredible impact that commitment and passion can have on our precious students and broader community,” stated UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin.

The Union County College Foundation Gala is selling tickets and has sponsorship opportunities available. For more information on the Union County College Foundation Gala, please visit www.ucc.edu/gala2024, 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 and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to a Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research hub. Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top 10 community colleges in the country for 2025 as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more, visit www.ucc.edu.