Jose Balda serves as the Assistant Vice President for University Admissions at New Jersey City University, overseeing a team and managing all aspects of student admissions, from recruitment to marketing and conversion. With a focus on recruiting and enrolling a diverse and intellectually driven student body, Jose has been dedicated to advancing the university's admissions goals.

Beyond his role in admissions, Jose is a passionate advocate for NJCU students' needs. He participates in male empowerment groups on campus and mentors students from local high schools. Jose has also conducted workshops for programs such as EOF, College Bound, and the Juvenile Justice Commission.

Professionally, Jose is involved in various organizations, including the New Jersey Association of College Admissions Counselors (NJACAC), the Hispanic Association for Higher Education (HAHE), and the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC).

Jose holds a Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences and a Master of Arts in Counseling, both from New Jersey City University. He was selected for the Inaugural Presidential Leadership Academy, La Academia de Liderazgo, by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, demonstrating his commitment to leadership and advocacy in higher education.

Dr. Navin Saiboo, University Registrar is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in higher education, managing student records, ensuring compliance with academic policies, and overseeing registration processes. Holding a Ph.D. with a focus on Higher Education Administration, Dr. Saiboo approaches his role with a deep understanding of the complex dynamics within university systems.

Driven by a desire to see students thrive, he goes beyond his administrative duties. Dedicated to student success, he collaborates with university stakeholders to provide comprehensive support and guidance throughout each student's academic journey and participates in male empowerment groups on campus and mentors students from local high schools. 

Dr. Saiboo's dedication extends to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. He works tirelessly to ensure equal access to educational opportunities for all students, advocating for a more inclusive and supportive environment within the university community.

Dr. Saiboo holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from New Jersey University and a Ph.D. from Seton Hall University. His extensive experience and deep expertise as a University Registrar reflects his unwavering dedication to fostering diversity, empowerment, and success within the university community. Through his leadership, advocacy efforts, and active involvement in professional organizations, Dr. Saiboo continues to make a significant impact in higher education.

Rev. Venida C. Rodman Jenkins hails from Teaneck, and she is passionate about providing love, visibility, encouragement, and spaces of belonging to underrepresented groups, a current that ripples through all areas of her life.

She is the Director of the Speicher-Rubin Women’s Center for Equity and Diversity at New Jersey City University, and an Adjunct Professor at Newhouse NYC, Syracuse University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Syracuse University, and the Master of Divinity degree from New York Theological Seminary. Venida loves singing, sushi, and the arts. She resides in Jersey City, NJ with her partner-in-squashing-oppression, Todd L. Jenkins. She is grateful to be receiving this award as part of her mother’s legacy – Rev. Lucy G. Rodman! Thank you all for this honor!

Ashley Igbokwe is a rising senior at NJCU, majoring in biology with a steadfast goal of becoming a physician. Her journey through academia has been marked not only by academic excellence but also by an unwavering commitment to serving her community both on and off campus.

Currently, Ashley wears multiple hats within the NJCU community. She serves as the student organization officer, a role that requires dedication, organization, and a genuine passion for fostering student engagement and growth. Additionally, Ashley is a valued member of the student staff at the Speicher Rubin Women’s Center for equity and diversity, where she contributes to creating a more inclusive and equitable campus environment.

As a Supplemental Instruction leader, Ashley goes above and beyond to support her peers in their academic pursuits, offering guidance and mentorship to help them succeed. Her role as a resident assistant further highlights her dedication to the well-being of her fellow students, ensuring they feel supported and valued within the university community.

Beyond her campus involvement, Ashley's commitment to service shines brightly. She has organized book drives for children in need, led breast cancer awareness walks, and ignited a passion for science in younger generations through engaging experiments and educational initiatives for elementary students.

Ashley's leadership extends beyond her individual efforts. In her previous role as the community service engagement officer for the Honors program, she worked tirelessly to foster a culture of service among her peers, providing opportunities for involvement and making a lasting impact on the community.

Now, as president, Ashley continues to prioritize community interests, ensuring they remain central to all her goals. Her belief that "a little eventually becomes a lot" drives her to take small steps towards achieving significant results, never underestimating the power of collective action and perseverance.

In Ashley Igbokwe, we see not only a dedicated student and aspiring physician but also a compassionate leader and tireless advocate for positive change. Her commitment to service and her belief in the transformative power of small actions serve as an inspiration to us all.

Born and raised in the vibrant town of Jersey City, New Jersey, Bobby RayShea Shirden has a record a commitment to service and community throughout his life.

Bobby is a graduate of Lincoln High School in Jersey City. Within the halls of NJCU, Bobby serves as a member of the Facilities and Campus Maintenance (FCM) team, specifically in Housekeeping for six years. His dedication to ensuring welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff reflects his deep commitment to the university community.

Yet, Bobby's impact extends far beyond the campus grounds. For over two decades, he has been consistent in the support and mentorship in his local community. As the Head Coach at the Recreational Center in Jersey City, NJ, Bobby has tirelessly invested his time and energy into shaping the lives of countless youth, instilling in them the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

In recognition of his unwavering dedication, Bobby has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious Lynette Garden's Children's Outstanding Service Award. This accolade stands as a testament to his profound impact on the lives of the youth he has served throughout the years.

Beyond his role as a coach, Bobby has also contributed to the community as a Basketball Referee for over 25 years. Through his passion for the game, he has not only officiated countless matches but has also served to positively aspire athletes.