To wrap up Women’s History Month, NJCU’s Center for Student Persistence and Success, in partnership with Alumni Relations, hosted the 5th Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch to celebrate the perseverance and accomplishments of women in the NJCU community. Staff, students, and alumni came together to take a moment to reflect on the community’s momentous work.
The brunch featured networking activities and a stunning performance by veteran and current NJCU student, Trinity Colvin, to commemorate women. In addition to the festivities, two alumnae were recognized for their contributions to the community and shared thoughtful advice with the girls of the world.
As NJCU is home to a student body where over 50% identify as first-generation, the university serves as a primary channel for mentorship and economic mobility. Against this backdrop, many students depend on NJCU for networking and career advice as they navigate the unique experience of being the first in their families to take this journey.
The first alumna to be awarded, Samia Chery-Geffard ’12, shared her journey from the streets of Haiti to owning and operating KIPP Upper Roseville Academy in Newark. As she described the challenges of economic mobility—balancing family, a full-time job, and being a first-generation student—Chery-Geffard emphasized one main lesson: “Allow people to see in you what you don’t see in yourself. Be willing to grow even when it’s uncomfortable, and don’t do it alone.” She encouraged attendees to embrace growth and support.
The second awarded alumna, Ebony Drew ’20, expressed her passion for helping others and creating opportunities for the community. Drew shared an important lesson: we cannot control what happens, but we can control how we react. She reminded everyone to approach every hurdle with grace and strength, and with the idea that “Even if you cannot help someone, do not knock them down.”
Every woman left with one idea clear in mind: life is hard, but together, we are stronger.
