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Greater New Jersey Chapter

Greetings from the Association of Black Women in Higher - Greater New Jersey (ABWHE-GNJ)!

 

Chartered in September 2023, ABWHE-GNJ is committed to providing an environment where Black women in higher education are given the opportunity to “learn, lead and lift!”

 

Through a series of strategic, innovative and interactive in-person/virtual social, professional and personal development initiatives, ABWHE-GNJ endeavors to carry out the mission and strategic priorities of our national organization. More specifically, we strive to create a professional space that embraces and supports Black women in higher education representing a myriad of professional levels, ages, interests, etc. 

 

In addition, ABWHE-GNJ strives to support Black women pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees and provide short-term professional development experiences for Black women (students, professional) interested in pursuing careers in higher education. Furthermore, we strive to develop programming that assists our youth in achieving overall student success and navigating future educational and career paths.

 

Our Chapter Culture

 

  • We lead with sisterhood!

  • We celebrate and respect each other.

  • We appreciate and embrace diverse perspectives and differences.

  • We “show up” for ourselves, our sisters and our community.

  • We provide a “safe-space” for Black Women to express their “authenticity.”

  • We strive for excellence.

  • We commit to making an impact.

  • We “lift as we climb!”

 

Our Commitment to You

 

  • Professional Development Opportunities

  • Networking Opportunities

  • Opportunities to Serve

  • Exposure & Opportunities to Lead

  • Authentic Sisterhood!

 

We warmly welcome the opportunity to further discuss your interest in ABWHE-GNJ as well as ways in which we can support you on your professional journey. To contact us, please email   abwhegnj@abwhe.org.

Chapter Leadership

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Crystal Smith

    President

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    I was enthusiastic about joining the New Jersey founding chapter of ABWHE after being approached by a member. While I initially wasn't deeply familiar with ABWHE, learning about its foundation quickly revealed a strong alignment with my personal values and goals. ​

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    Kimyata Valere

      Vice President 

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      ​My decision to sign on as a charter member of ABWHE GNJ stemmed from my desire to affiliate with an organization of like-minded Black women with similar goals and challenges. I was also seeking to increase my professional network. The organization - more specifically, the chapter has allowed me to do both.  

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      Marsha Williams

        Secretary

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        I initially joined the organization because I was interested in connecting with women in higher education. It has always been a passion of mine to be connected to women who are connected to the academy. I joined the organization with the hope to gain information that would be relevant to my current position that I could bring back to my institution.

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        Dionne Hallback

          Treasurer

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          I was drawn to the Association of Black Women in Higher Education because I wanted to be part of a community where I could both contribute and grow. As a Black woman navigating the world of higher education, I understand the importance of having a supportive network that not only affirms our experiences but also actively works to uplift and empower us. I joined to connect with other women who share similar journeys—women who are leading, mentoring, advocating, and breaking barriers.  â€‹â€‹

           

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          Jacqueline Heads

            Immediate Past President

             

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