Meet the Pre-College Staff

Mr. Alan Cruz, Director
Email: acruz6@njcu.edu
Phone: 201-200-3146

Mr. Alan Cruz is the Director for the GEAR UP Pre-College Program at NJCU. Alan's professional journey has taught him the importance of being a leader, not a follower, and he strives to be a positive role model for all of the GEAR UP scholars. He approaches every space with a curious and open mind, always looking to learn and create his own narrative. His motto for the GEAR UP Program is “This investment of scholars growth and success is one that promises to pay off." With an extensive history at NJCU, Alan has his bachelor's degree in Sports Management and a MBA in Marketing. Alan has been with the GEAR UP Program since 2021 in multiple capacities, showing his commitment and has always been available to provide support to the GEAR UP scholars and their families. With a wealth of experience in the program, Alan has already helped many of the Gear Up scholars achieve success and hopes to continue to see it grow. His focus is seeing the GEAR UP scholars succeed, grow and receive a college degree. 

Rosaury (Rosy) Gomez, Counselor
Email: rgomez3@njcu.edu
Phone: 201-200-2320

Rosaury (Rosy) Gomez is a proud alumna of New Jersey City University (NJCU), where she earned her B.A. in Psychology. She has been part of the GEAR UP program since 2022, starting as a mentor and transitioning into her current role as a counselor after graduation. Throughout her time at NJCU, Rosy developed strong leadership skills and a passion for supporting students, which she brings to her work today.

In her role with GEAR UP, Rosy works closely with students to create individualized plans for success, providing guidance through one-on-one sessions where they develop Personal Education Plans (PEP). These plans help students reflect on their academic progress, explore career interests, and set college aspirations. She also leads college tours, exposing students to various higher education opportunities, and connects them with resources such as internships, workshops, and other growth opportunities.

Dedicated to student well-being, Rosy prioritizes mental health by regularly checking in with students, ensuring they feel safe, heard, and supported. She is committed to helping students of all grades—whether assisting seniors with college applications or guiding 8th graders as they begin their high school journey—empowering them to pursue their dreams with confidence.

Alejandra Martinez, Program Coordinator
Email: amartinez35@njcu.edu 

Alejandra Martinez is an alumnus of NJCU with a Bachelor's in English-Literature and a minor in Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies. During her freshmen year of undergrad, she became a college mentor with the program and remained such until the end of her senior year. She currently serves as the program coordinator and aspires to go to law school.

Dr. E. Cordell Dixon, Curriculum Specialist
Email: edixon@njcu.edu 

Dr. Dixon is an active member of the GEAR UP Program, ensuring that all curriculum is aligned with standards to best progress the knowledge of our scholars.