Educating, Transforming, and Empowering our State's Next Generation of Leaders

Lead New Jersey's been very important in my career in things that I've accomplished…once you join the LNJ family, you have lots of potential folks out there to help you, so I have leveraged the contacts and LNJ fellows over the years many times. Moreover, the program itself, when we tackle each of these big issues facing New Jersey or facing society, you get a perspective you didn't have before.

What LNJ really did is expose me to both a spectrum of people that I probably would not have interacted with otherwise, and I met some other smart people who thought differently than I did. I had no real appreciation for environmental concerns, and I remember [LNJ] took us to the Pinelands. I saw that pristine water; it was a very peaceful, sacred space, and I remember saying to myself, ‘You know, this really should be preserved.

I am truly grateful for my participation in LNJ.  It is the BEST leadership program!  LNJ has provided value beyond my expectations and has been a key influence on me as a leader in the “for purpose” industry. In my work, I have secured key partnerships with corporations and community organizations that move my organization's mission forward and were made possible because I am an LNJ Fellow.

Lead NJ provides a first-rate, interactive education on NJ. It understands that knowledge is power and each of its seminars is expertly crafted to provide itsFellows with a 360-degree view of an issue. One of the most impactful seminars for me thus far has been the two days we spent at HomeFront Family Campus in Ewing learning about the organization’s incredible work to end homelessness in Central NJ by harnessing the caring, resources, and expertise of the community. Spending time at HomeFront gave me unique perspective and insight I couldn’t have possibly gained from just reading facts or hearing a lecture. I am so grateful to be part of the 2024 class of Lead NJ.

LNJ exposed me to a variety of high-impact sectors in New Jersey’s policy landscape. This experience was instrumental in my transition from the nonprofit sector to government, helping me develop strong relationships with leaders in my field.

Although 15 years ago, my deeper understanding of the issues facing New Jersey and amazing relationships developed during my year (and beyond) continue to shape and benefit me in myriad ways.I am also pleased to report as of this year I have resumed eating peanut butter....Go Red!