A Message from Bergen Community College President
Dr. Eric M. Friedman
And here’s why: Bergen not only represents the best value in higher education, but it puts students on a path for success. There’s not another institution in this region that can match Bergen when it comes to the quality of its programs, its student support services and its value. There’s a reason why more students choose to attend Bergen than any other community college in New Jersey each year — they know Bergen gives them the best chance to succeed!
Bergen also offers dozens of transfer programs with dedicated faculty that prepare students for entry into some of the nation’s best universities. To that point, did you know Bergen graduates have attended every Ivy League institution and continue to transfer to the nation’s best universities after graduation?
The NJ STARS program represents one of the State of New Jersey’s most vital assistance programs, offering students the opportunity to enroll at Bergen tuition-free. This program can remove the most significant barrier to student success and degree completion — financial considerations — and allow you to focus on your education. We are all thrilled that you have included Bergen, New Jersey’s number one college for associate degree graduates, as part of your college search. But I don’t want you to just ‘consider’ Bergen … I want you to enroll at Bergen and become part of our family!
Come see our recently opened, completely redesigned one-stop student services facility at our main campus, which offers students a seamless admissions, enrollment and registration experience. I hope to see you there soon!
Beyond the classroom, Bergen supports students through its Cerullo Learning Assistance Center, which has earned awards as one of the best tutoring centers in the country, and the world’s number one-ranked chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges!
Are you ready to become a STAR at Bergen Community College?
Bergen students take advantage of our unique academic resources such as the region’s only Health Professions Integrated Teaching Center, which prepares students for immediate jobs in the County’s number one employment sector — healthcare. And we are distinguished by our STEM Research Center, our programs in business and the arts, and so much more.
● 2016-2017 Phi Theta Kappa Regional/International Distinguished Chapter Officer
2017, Karpinksi was awarded the PTK Joan C. Scrivani Award for Outstanding Service and the PTK Distinguished Leadership Award. She was one of 62 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and one of 34 students who earned the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award for both the honors program and PTK.
While a student at Bergen Community College, she was a Legal Assistant at the Law Offices of Steven S. Genkin and was a Writing Tutor at the Cerullo Learning Assistance Center on Atcampus.Commencement
Beginning in February 2022, Karpinski began serving as Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman-Elect Shama Haider, and obtained a Masters of Public Administration from Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration in May.
● 2016 Phi Theta Kappa Middle States Officer Hall of Honors Recognition
● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Leadership Award
After graduating from Bergen, Karpinski was elected Alumni Representative for the PTK Board of Directors. At the same time, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rutgers University in Newark in 2020.
In 2016, Karpinski was the first student ever elected PTK International President, and hoped to destigmatize community colleges and promote further involvement among advisors and members. She planned to encourage greater communication between member students and institutions, thereby fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge becomes communal. Karpinski also planned to provide special attention to developing resources for chapters that lack significant institutional support. In addition to her election to PTK International President, Karpinski also earned the regional and international Distinguished Officer award and regional Officer Hall of Honors recognition. She was also elected Student Representative for the PTK Board of Directors. “Phi Theta Kappa has the ability to transform you into a person that you never thought possible,” she said. “The biggest benefit is realizing your own potential.”
Karpinski also worked as Bergen County Commissioner Aide at the Bergen County Board of Freeholders. Since 2020, Karpinski has been the Regional Political Director at NJ Forward and the President for the Young Democrats of Bergen County.
● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate
● 2021 PTK Board of Directors Vice Chair
In addition to pursuing her academic goals, Karpinski worked as a Legal Assistant at Kelly Kelly Marotta & Tuchman, LLC and a Law Clerk at the NJ Office of Attorney Ethics. She interned at the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, served as a Registry Clerk at the Bergen County Clerk’s Office, and interned for the Democratic Committee of Bergen County.
Karpinski describes attending the information session about Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) as “the first time I had that moment of ‘I belong here.’” After being inducted as a member, Karpinski was elected president of her chapter and became an advocate for community college education and PTK membership.
● 2017-2018 Phi Theta Kappa Board of Directors, Student Representative ● Phi Theta Kappa Joan C. Scrivani Award for Outstanding Service
● 2022 Rutgers Graduate School, Newark Campus - Master of Public Administration, MPA Karpinski, ‘18
STARS Spotlight Amanda
Amanda Karpinski, of Carlstadt, chose Bergen Community College because of the NJ STARS program and felt that Bergen Community College far exceeded her expectations. Attending Bergen Community College and accepting the NJ STARS program was probably one of the best decisions in her life.
● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award
Beginning in February 2022, Karpinski began serving as Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman-Elect Shama Haider, and obtained a Masters of Public Administration from Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration in May. According to Karpinski, “Throughout my academic and professional career, I constantly strive to be the best in all I do.”
● 2016-2017 Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter President
● 2017-2018 Phi Theta Kappa, International President
● 2018-2019 Phi Theta Kappa Board of Directors, Alumni Representative
● 2020 Rutgers University, Newark Campus - BA English
● Graduated with a 4.0 GPA
Karpinski was elected to serve as Vice Chair of the PTK Board of Directors in January 2021. “I am delighted to have Amanda - the youngest member of the Board - stepping into this important role,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, PTK President and CEO.
“I actively participate in all things music, art, and creative writing. I often spend my free time collaborating with others in the arts. Though I have many goals, my biggest desire is to enjoy the different phases of my life every step of the way, and to help those around me feel joyful,” said Capellán who has certainly lived up to her statement. She began her journey at Bergen by participating in the fourweek Summer Intensive Program (SIP). She said, “It taught me so much about the opportunities that Bergen offers and the SIP office also served as a support community throughout my involvement at the College.”
● 2021 Coca-Cola Gold Scholar
● 2020-2021 Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter President
Bergen Phi Theta Kappa faculty advisers Lisa Mayer and Kelly Keane in a joint statement said, “Genesis is an incredibly diligent and compassionate person who continually demonstrates extraordinary leadership skills as PTK chapter president by spearheading PTK academic research projects, the executive team, and many social events.”
● 2021 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate ● Graduated with a 3.95 GPA
Capellán earned a spot on the 2021 New Jersey All-State Academic Team, which recognized her as one of 36 top community college students in the Garden State. She also received recognition as a 2021 Coca-Cola Gold Scholar, securing a $1,500 scholarship from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and PTK – an award received by only 50 of 2,000 applicants.
• University of San Diego - B.A. in Communications and Media Studies by 2023
“I have received so much support from my mother, the PTK community and many special individuals right in my hometown of Englewood,” Capellán said. “It goes to show that a loving community will really take one far. It truly does take a village. Strength is found where communities are gathered to support one Capellánanother.”was one of 72 students in the U.S. (seven in New Jersey, four at Bergen Community College) to earn the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, the most prestigious award for junior college students, which provides up to $40,000 per year for recipients to complete their bachelor’s degrees.
If you joined us at the College’s 2021 commencement exercises, Capellán sang the National Anthem so beautifully, she brought tears to many attendees’ eyes. She was one of 59 students at Commencement 2021 to earn the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award and graduated with a 3.95 GPA. Capellán plans on pursuing additional higher education opportunities in cultural anthropology and global research, and hopes to write articles, create films, compose music and use creativity to educate others. “I aim to take what I learn in the field of anthropology and create media content to help spread awareness about cultural issues,” she said. She transferred to the University of San Diego and is majoring in Communications and Media Studies. "While pursuing my Bachelor's Degree, I aim to get involved on campus and work to improve my surrounding community just as I did at Bergen.”
“At Bergen, I found there are immense opportunities to get involved in the community. Bergen is thriving in clubs, organizations, research opportunities, community service, and social events. Even with remote learning, students are able to connect with others if they are willing to put themselves out there. The wide variety of opportunities at Bergen also stems from the diversity found here, people from many different walks of life gather here to start or continue their education.”
Capellán served as president of Bergen Community College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi, and as an ambassador for the Violence Intervention Prevention Center. She also participated in the Educational Opportunity Fund program and took an active leadership role in Bergen’s D.I.V.A. Girl Club student organization.
STARS Spotlight Genesis Capellán, ‘21
● 2021 New Jersey All-State Academic Team Member
Genesis Capellán, of Englewood, a professional studies major at Bergen Community College, found that the NJ STARS program opened up new possibilities for her. Capellán said, "The NJ STARS program gave me the opportunity to begin my college experience without any debt, which allowed me to explore my educational endeavors free of financial stress. As a result, I’ve been able to become a part of many awesome organizations on campus and dedicate more time to academic excellence and leadership!"
● Phi Theta Kappa & Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors Dual Honors Award
Sanchez is also the sole owner of a real estate company, Metavine Properties, that currently owns and manages 5 rental units in Chicago, IL. Luis is hoping to expand operations back to New Jersey through partnership deals.
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● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Chapter Officer Team Member30 teams in the U.S.
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● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate Graduated with a 3.73GPA
STARS Spotlight Luis Sanchez,
Sanchez is currently employed as Logistics System Analyst at United States Cold Storage and was recently promoted to their Leadership Development Program. The program allows him to gain experience in all areas of the supply chain. Thus far, he has been a logistics analyst, customer experience analyst, and load planner through the program.
To Sanchez, process improvement isn’t just his main area of study, but more so, a way of life.
● Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter Vice President of Communications
● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Leadership Award
● 2021 Rutgers University, Newark Campus- BS, Supply Chain Management Graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 3.94 GPA ‘19
● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award
“The NJ STARS program freed me of the financial burden that schools present. That has directly contributed toward making my academic experience debt-free and has allowed me to excel in my career and business endeavors. I am eternally grateful for the NJ STARS program,” said Sanchez.
In 2018, Sanchez was chosen for Phi Theta Kappa’s Distinguished Leadership Award and was one of 30 students in the world to be named one of Phi Theta Kappa’s Distinguished Chapter Officers. His contribution as a PTK officer led to the team effort to receive the prestigious “Most Distinguished Chapter,” where Bergen’s very own Alpha Epsilon Phi chapter was awarded for the best projects over 800 colleges. Sanchez was a member of Future Business Leaders of America and completed the CollegeLEADS program, which focuses on leadership and civic engagement on local government and public policy. He also led a team of six students in the New Jersey County College Case Competition at Rutgers Business school, later obtained his Bachelor’s Degree at Rutgers Business School, and graduated summa cum laude
● Bergen Honors Association, Publicist
● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Chapter Officer to 30 students in the world
Sanchez obtained his NIH certification to become EEG certified and spent a year as lead researcher to publish the largest statistical analysis on ASMR’s effects on the brain. Sanchez also spearheaded the project to increase the College’s environmental efforts by creating an educational awareness initiative and petition on campus which resulted in resource allocation toward environmental sustainability.
Luis Sanchez, of Lodi, attributed most of his post-graduation success to his start as an NJ STARS student. While at Bergen Community College, Sanchez held leadership positions in Phi Theta Kappa and the Bergen Honors Association where he helped to develop a completely new General Studies curriculum that was adopted by the College to streamline the student experience for future incoming students.
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Her resume includes active membership in student government as the Vice President of the SGA in 2015, Phi Theta Kappa, NJ STARS, the Educational Opportunity Fund and as a participant in the inaugural “summer intensive” college-readiness initiative. In 2015, Piñeiros became the recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship for exemplary academic performance. More than 2,600 students from 540 community colleges in the U.S. applied, but only 90 students were selected to receive the scholarship, which provides up to $40,000 per year for recipients to complete their bachelor’s degrees. “You hear stories like this from other people but you don’t think it’s going to happen to you,” she said. “This is going to follow me for the rest of my life.” At Commencement 2015, Piñeiros was one of 72 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and one of 38 students who earned a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award for both the honors program and PTK.
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● 2019 University of Maryland - M.Ed., Higher Education, Student Affairs, & International Education Policy Piñeiros, ‘15
● 2014-2015 BCC Student Government Association Vice President 2015 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholar 2015 Outstanding EOF Graduate Award 2915 Student Leadership Award Recipient, BCC Student Life Phi Theta Kappa graduate EOF Scholar Summer Intensive Graduate Graduated with a 4.0 GPA
● 2017 The College of New Jersey - B.A. in Communications, Spanish Minor
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When reflecting back about her time at Bergen Community College, Piñeiros said, “What I loved and missed the most about Bergen are the people. Students, faculty, and staff were such an integral part in my personal, academic, and professional development. I have made lifelong friends thanks to Bergen, and 'till this day, we regularly talk about how formative those years were to our academic and professional futures.” She recalled, “My honors classes were my favorite; they were small, engaging, and challenging. The out-of-classroom opportunities were abundant, and the staff and faculty who I had the pleasure of working with were approachable and committed to my success. Bergen set the tone for what I looked for in my future academic experiences and if I had the opportunity, I would redo my time at Bergen all over again.”
Anticipating a career in student affairs, she transferred to The College of New Jersey to study communications and minor in PiñeirosSpanish.
STARS Spotlight Natasha
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Natasha Piñeiros, born and raised in Ecuador, is a first-generation college graduate who proudly began her college journey at Bergen Community College. After graduating from Hackensack High School and learning that she was eligible for the NJ STARS program, Piñeiros gave Bergen Community College a chance. “It provided me with more opportunities than I could have ever imagined,” she recalled. Knowing she had the financial backing of NJ STARS, she was able to focus her energy on her academic responsibilities and student involvement. While at Bergen, she was able to explore her career options and apply to colleges and scholarships upon graduation; all of which allowed her to earn her bachelor's and master's degree debt-free.
obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Spanish Language from The College of New Jersey in 2017, and a Masters of Arts in Higher Education, Student Affairs, & International Education Policy from the University of Maryland - College Park in 2019. Since graduating with her Master’s degree, Natasha has worked at a number of higher education institutions where her priority has always been to advocate for and support underrepresented and historically underserved students. Outside of higher education, she continues to be involved in community-based organizations that support the personal and professional development of minoritized communities, and advocates for a growing understanding of how technology and mental health can be sustainably incorporated in our lifelong learning experience.
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● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award
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Reach for the STARS! • Created in 2004 • First State-Sponsored Merit-Based Scholarship Program in the U.S. • Over 1,200 STARS Have Graduated from Bergen • 54% of Bergen STARS Earned a 3.5 GPA or Higher “According to research conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, students who first enroll at community colleges, then transfer to four-year colleges, do as well in attaining bachelor’s degrees as students who started as freshmen at four-year schools. Using community colleges as ‘feeder institutions’ is a very efficient approach to producing more bachelor’s degree graduates who will stay in New Jersey.”
- Dr. Jake Farbman, New Jersey Center for Student Success Executive Director
• Nearly 100% of Bergen STARS Graduates Transfer to Four-Year Colleges • Bergen STARS Alumni Include: • The First International President of PTK • Top 20 U.S. Community College Students • Student Government Presidents • PTK Presidents • Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients and Semifinalists • 95% of Bergen STARS Remain in New Jersey After Graduation
● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate
At Commencement 2015, Stanbridge-Richardsen was one of 72 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and one of 38 students who earned a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award for both the honors program and Stanbridge-RichardsenPTK. was able to continue on to her bachelor’s degree with less financial hardship given the college continuation scholarships she received from Phi Theta Kappa, NJ STARS, and Seton Hall University for her involvement in both Stanbridge-Richardsenprograms. completed a Masters in Business Administration with Seton Hall University in 2021. She has worked for Becton Dickinson since 2017, and is currently living and working in Singapore as Talent Management & Development Manager for BD's Greater Asia region.
STARS Spotlight Rhonda Stanbridge-Richardsen, ‘15
● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Chapter Officer Team Member
In 2015, Stanbridge-Richardsen was one of only 20 students to be named to the All-USA Community College Academic Team. She also was one of 50 students in the U.S. who won the 2015 New Jersey Coca-Cola New Century Scholar Award. More than 1,700 students were nominated from more than 1,000 community colleges for recognition. Judges considered grades, leadership, activities and, most importantly, how students extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom. New Century Scholars are the highest scoring students in each state, which made Stanbridge-Richardsen the best college student in New Jersey.
Just like many high school students and their families, choosing a college was confusing for Rhonda RichardsenStanbridge-
● Graduated with a 4.0 GPA
• 2021 Seton Hall University, Master of Business Administration, MBA Marketing
. This was especially true because her parents did not pursue education beyond an associate’s degree. Even though Rhonda was eligible for the NJ STARS program, the negative perception about community college and the lack of financial guidance from school counselors led her to make a decision she categorizes as – “not very productive.”
Stanbridge-Richardsen approached Bergen with a goal to get the most out of it as possible. She said, “I signed up for honors courses during my first semester and was immediately introduced to professors who encouraged me to fulfill my potential and become involved in student activities on campus. I started mentoring students with intellectual disabilities through the Turning Point Program and joined numerous clubs.” As she became a student leader, she began to feel that “it is [her] goal to engage other students like [herself], to take advantage of the amazing programs offered.”
President
● 2015 New Jersey Coca-Cola New Century Scholar
After graduating high school in Vernon, Stanbridge-Richardsen enrolled in Colorado State University and became the first member of her family to attend a university. She said, “Although it was a great experience that diversified my perspective, the financial reality set in quickly.” After a year in Colorado, she felt her best option was to move back to New Jersey and continue her education utilizing the NJ STARS program. To cut commute time down and to take full advantage of campus offerings, she decided to live with her grandparents to attend Bergen Community College as a Bergen County resident.
Certificate of Commendation
● Ambassador to New Jersey’s Governor’s Council on Mental Health Stigma
● Phi Theta Kappa Middle States Officer Hall of Honors
● 2015 New Jersey All-State Academic Team
● Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award
● All USA Community College Academic Team Member
● Phi Theta Kappa Joan C. Scrivani Award for Outstanding Service
● Bergen County Executive and Board of Chosen Freeholders
● 2014-2015 Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter
Member
After being inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the College’s international honor society, Stanbridge-Richardsen was soon elected as President of Alpha Epsilon Phi chapter. Thanks to the support of Bergen’s faculty and administration, she and her peers were able to implement various projects focusing on college completion, personal professional development, and community service. “I never imagined that education could have such a transformative effect on one’s life,” said StanbridgeRichardsen.
● 2017 Seton Hall University, B.A. Psychology in Psychology, Minor in Business Administration
Recognition
● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Leadership Award
Petrazzuolo was involved in numerous business-oriented organizations at Bergen. He served as President of the Future Business Leaders of America, one of Bergen’s largest business clubs. He was the Team Leader of the NJC4 Case Competition Team, which is a competition hosted by Rutgers Business School and M&T Bank where community college students analyze, develop, and present their solution to a business case study written by a Rutgers business professor.
Michael Petrazzuolo, of Oakland, is a first-generation college student who began his academic journey as a NJ STARS student at Bergen Community College. The NJ STARS scholarship allowed Petrazzuolo to focus on academics and involve himself across numerous organizations on campus.
Petrazzuolo served as the Research Leader of the PTK Honors in Action Project, an academic research competition focused on nine themes related to the Honors Study Theme. Petrazzuolo and his team conducted an experiment consisting of 180 participants to study the effects of subliminal messages in political advertisements by using statistical analysis and eyetracking technology. His contribution would lead to the project placing in the Top 5 Best Projects in Theme 4 and Top 30 Best Honors in Action Projects out of 1300 active chapters.
One of Petrazzuolo’s greatest achievements at Bergen was making the semi-finals of the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. In 2020, the JKC Scholarship was given to only 50 of the most distinguished community college students in the country and covers up to $40,000/year for three years. What makes this accolade special was that his brother, Antonio, was also a JKC semi-finalist at Bergen two years earlier.
Petrazzuolo was actively involved in both the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. As the treasurer for the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors, he oversaw the finances of the club, creating fundraising events, and utilizing the budget to expand the capabilities of the honors program. As for PTK, Petrazzuolo was the Vice President of Finance where he served a similar role of recording the organization’s expenses and organized fund-raising events.
Petrazzuolo was also the Vice President and Co-Founder of Bergen’s Net Impact Chapter. He enrolled the club in the Up to Us Competition, a competition focused on promoting the awareness of the United States’ debt-crisis through extensive campaigning, and placed 3rd out of 144 two-year and four-year institutions. He also attended the 2019 Net Impact Conference in Detroit, Michigan to represent Bergen Community College.
● Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter Vice President of Finance ● Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Chapter Team Member ● Phi Theta Kappa Top 50 Most Distinguished Chapter Officers (Middle States) ● Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Semi-Finalist ● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors Treasurer ● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award ● Vice President/Co-Founder of the Net Impact Chapter, Bergen Community College ● Bergen Community College LEADS Program Member ● 2-Time Team Leader for the NJC4 Case Competition ● President of the Future Business Leaders of America ● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate ● Graduated with a 3.93 GPA ● 2022 Cornell University, B.A. in Finance and Energy Economics • Graduated with a 3.94 GPA STARS Spotlight Michael Petrazzuolo, ‘20
Originally attending Rutgers University in New Brunswick to run track and field, Petrazzuolo says that he chose to attend a community college instead because he believed that he would be able to find out what he really wanted to do after graduating college. Some of the things that made Bergen stand out for him were the small class sizes, excellent professors, and fantastic resources that organizations like Phi Theta Kappa and the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors offered students.
Petrazzuolo graduated Bergen with a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors Associate Degree in General Studies in May 2020 and was one of 53 students who earned a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors Dual Honors Award for both the honors program and PTK. He is currently a senior at the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management at Cornell University, where he is double majoring in Finance and Environmental, Energy, & Resource Economics. He is planning on working in the renewable energy industry, where he will be interning as a Project Finance and Valuation Intern this summer.
Petrazzuolo transferred to Cornell University where he doublemajored in Finance and Environmental, Energy & Resource Economics. He is planning on working in the renewable energy industry and is currently interning at Con Edison Clean Energy Businesses as Project Finance and Valuation Intern.
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wide range of internship experiences from large consulting firms to non-profit organizations. When discussing her internship experience at Boston Consulting Group, she said, “I learned the importance of a positive and empowering work environment, working alongside a wide range of professionals.”
In February, 2022, Freund was promoted to Associate Software Engineer at Capital One.
● Professor Robert Neil Ender Memorial Mathematics Award
Referencing her internship experience at Plan International USA, she said, “I learned how to navigate and organize large amounts of data to help increase donations for a non-profit that I am so proud to have been a part of!”
● Professor Robert Neil Ender Memorial Mathematics Award
Graduation
Following her graduation from Rutgers University, Freund joined Capital One as a CODA Associate. This program provides non-computer science students with the opportunity of becoming full-time software engineers after six months of training. She said, “I am excited to learn from and grow within a company that views my mathematics and statistics degree as an advantage for a software engineering career in tech!”
As a Bergen mathematics major, Freund continued her education in mathematics and statistics to become a data scientist and join the tech industry. Committed to service, she served as a mentor in the Turning Point program for young adults with intellectual disabilities interested in academic, vocational and social enrichment, and as a fellow for a professional development program, America Needs You, for first generation low-income college students. “Bergen is a school that provides a large number of resources and reminds you to take advantage of them. The tutoring center was one of my favorite features at Bergen,” said Freund. “There were always tutors on hand to assist me at any time. I also loved the small classrooms at Bergen because they allowed me to create meaningful relationships with others as well as with my Inprofessors.”2019,Freund earned the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. Nationwide, 1,500 community college students applied for the highly competitive scholarship with only 61 students in the U.S. receiving the award. Scholars are selected based on academic achievement, leadership, and service to others. The scholarship provides up to $40,000 annually for a maximum of three years to complete a bachelor’s
● 2019 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award Phi Theta Kappa Graduate Graduated with a 4.0 GPA 2021 Rutgers University, New Brunswick- B.A. in Statistics & Mathematics Freund, ‘19
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2019, Freund was one of 81 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and one of 53 students who earned a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award. “All of my life I have always worked hard in school toward my future, and to receive a scholarship acknowledging my effort is not only rewarding but it motivates me to continue to follow my dreams to succeed,” she said. “Being a first-generation college student from a low-income household, the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is incredibly life-changing, and I know it is what will push me in the right direction. There are truly not enough words to describe how grateful I am for this Freundopportunity.”hada
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STARS Spotlight Mikiko
Mikiko Freund, of Little Ferry, a NJ STARS student at Bergen Community College, shared that she would not be where she is without the NJ STARS program and she is glad she took advantage of it. Freund said, “Coming from a low-income household, NJ STARS allowed me to focus on my academics and extracurriculars at Bergen. NJ STARS contributed to my growth and success at Bergen and beyond!”
Atdegree.Commencement
● Graduated with a 4.0 GPA
● 2020 Phi Theta Kappa Guistwhite Scholar
Aside from the small class sizes, Santacroce’s favorite part about Bergen was the supportive peers and faculty. Throughout her time at the College, she said that there was always a peer or faculty member there willing to offer guidance with whatever endeavor or goal she aimed to achieve. She feels that her experience would not have been half as rewarding without the help she received from the family she found at Bergen Community College. In 2018, she was one of eight Bergen Community College students invited to present their papers at the Beacon Conference in Montgomery College in Maryland and won first place in her panel presentation. She also was one of eight Bergen students invited to present their papers at the 2019 Beacon Conference at Lehigh Carbon Community College in SantacrocePennsylvania.was very engaged with Phi Theta Kappa, the official international honor society for community colleges. She campaigned and was elected International Division I Vice President, serving 240,000 active Phi Theta Kappa members. In 2020, she was one of 15 students selected for the Guistwhite Scholars award, the second-highest scholarship offered by Phi Theta Kappa, which includes a $5,000 scholarship. Winners were selected from among 3,400 applicants nationwide, and their selection was based on academic excellence, leadership accomplishments, and engagement in Phi Theta Kappa programs. Recipients also received a commemorative Santacrocemedallion.
● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate
Jenna Santacroce, of Saddle Brook, expressed gratitude for the NJ STARS program because the scholarship enabled her to focus on her studies, extracurriculars, and personal and professional development during her time at Bergen Community College. Without the financial burden of paying for college tuition, she said she was able to spend those formative years in community college devoting time and effort toward advancing her future.
As a result of her accomplishments at Bergen Community College, Santacroce earned a full-ride scholarship to the University of Mississippi, where she is studying Public Policy with a minor in Environmental Studies. She intends to continue her education at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she will receive a Master's degree in Coastal and Ocean Policy. Santacroce’s long-term goal is to create, campaign for, and implement policies that protect the coasts and oceans worldwide.
● 2020 New Jersey All-State Academic Team Member
● 2018-2019 Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter Director
“I often get questioned why I make an effort to switch to reusable bottles and bags when celebrities and companies cause more destruction than I, as one person, am capable of reversing.” Her answer is one of her favorite quotes by American author Edward Everett Hale, “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” She said, “It is easy to detach yourself and feel that as an individual, your contribution is minuscule, but there are seven billion other individuals in this world. If each person takes ownership and takes charge, change is inevitable.”
• University of Mississippi - B.A. in Public Policy, Environmental Studies minor by 2023 ‘20
● 2019 Beacon Conference Panel Presenter
In Thailand, despite falling asleep feeling disheartened because of the plastic pollution, Santacroce said, “I woke up each morning eager as ever, not allowing what I cannot do to interfere with what I can do and knowing that any stride made toward protecting the planet is worthwhile.” Her experience in Thailand promoted her interest in environmental policy, where she intends to address coastal and ocean conservation issues through a preventative, legislative approach.
● 2019-2020 Phi Theta Kappa, International Vice President
● Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors & Phi Theta Kappa Dual Honors Award
Over winter break in 2020, Santacroce completed a Plastic Pollution and Coastal Conservation internship program in Thailand. One of their major initiatives as volunteers was to clean the coastlines. The volunteers spent countless hours collecting and disposing of trash from beaches along the west, southern coast of Thailand. The amount of plastic was incomprehensible, and at first, she admitted to feeling Santacrocedisheartened.said,
● 2018 Beacon Conference First Place Presenter in Panel
STARS Spotlight Jenna Santacroce,
also earned a spot on the New Jersey All-State Academic Team for outstanding achievement in scholarship, leadership and service recognizing her as one of 38 top community college students in the Garden State. At Commencement 2020, she was one of 60 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA and one of 53 students who earned a Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors Dual Honors Award for both the honors program and PTK.
Laila Metwaly, of Fairview, an NJ STARS student, felt that the NJ STARS program helped her focus on her education without thinking about financial burdens. “The NJ STARS program and scholarship played a significant factor in my decision to attend Bergen Community College,” said Metwaly. “The NJ STARS program allowed me to be able to fully focus on my education and academics at Bergen, as the financial limitations of attending College were alleviated. It allowed me to truly succeed and flourish within my journey and experience at Bergen.” While enrolled at Bergen Community College, Metwaly worked in the Office of Student Life and as a peer writing tutor for the Cerullo Learning Assistance Center. She served as the director of service for PTK, participated in a research group on COVID-19 epidemiology and collaborated as part of the College’s STEM “Iprogram.havealways been fascinated by the science field and knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the biology or medical field,” said Metwaly. "I aspire to be a Genetic Counselor because it is a career that focuses heavily on assisting and helping others. It incorporates two aspects that I have an incredible passion for, science and service. As Director of Service in PTK, she served the student body and the Bergen community, as well as motivated other students to volunteer. Service is extremely important to me because due to the service of others, I am where I am today. So, I want to give back. I want to make sure that the kindness and support that has been shown to me, I can give to someone else in a myriad of Whenways.”the Presidential search committee formed to lead the vetting, interview and selection of candidates and the hiring of our new president, Eric M. Friedman, Ph.D., Metwaly stepped forward as Chairwoman of the Academic Affairs Committee of the SGA, applied and was selected as the only student on the 15-member committee.
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Dr. Friedman said, “I am incredibly proud of Bergen Community College’s newest Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholars. It’s rare for a community college to have a student receive this prestigious honor. To have four receive it in the same year speaks to the incredible aptitude, character and resolve of Bergen students. This life-changing scholarship will help them continue on a path for success.”
● 2020-2021 Student
Metwaly was eligible to graduate from Bergen after three semesters but forfeited her NJ STARS II scholarship to enroll an additional semester so she could complete the academic year leading her class of 2021 as Student Government Association President, and close the Commencement 2021 ceremony when she performed the ceremonial shift of tassels. successfully graduating from Bergen Community College with an Associate's Degree in Biology, Metwaly transferred to Rutgers University in New Brunswick and is majoring in Biological Sciences. Government Association President Kappa Alpha Epsilon Kent Cooke New Brunswick Campus B.A. Biology/Biological
Undergraduate Transfer Scholar ● Ceremonial Shift of Tassel at Commencement 2021 ● Phi Theta Kappa Graduate • Graduated with a 3.84 GPA • Rutgers University,
Following in the footsteps of a dozen Bergen Community College alumni, Metwaly was one of four class of 2021 graduates that earned the most prestigious award for community college students – the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship, which provides up to $40,000 per year for each student to complete a bachelor’s degree. In 2021, only 72 students in the U.S. earned this scholarship.
in
Sciences by 2023 STARS Spotlight Laila Metwaly, ‘21
After
● 2020-2021 Phi Theta
Phi Chapter Director of Service ● 2020 Jack
NJ STARS Representative & Enrollment Services Coordinator 400 Paramus Road, Room C-111 Paramus,
CatherineContact:
Each year, approximately 1,600 students in Bergen County are eligible, yet only about 6% of these students take advantage of the NJ STARS program. I frequently hear from high school students that they are discouraged from attending a community college by their peers, by their parents who tell me they want their children to go to the best colleges and apologize that they cannot afford to send them to the more expensive schools, and even by their high school counselors.
According to the Public Policy Agenda, “Many middle-class families often do not make enough money to afford college tuition bills, but often make too much money to qualify for federal or state-sponsored need-based financial aid.” NJ STARS students can graduate with their associate's degrees with little or no debt, and still receive their bachelor's degrees at a fouryear college, often with help from the NJ STARS II program, Phi Theta Kappa, and other scholarships. Many NJ STARS graduates go on to pursue their master's degrees. Students who qualified for the NJ STARS program but did not attend Bergen Community College full-time are still eligible if they enroll within five semesters following high school graduation, even if they attended another college or university. I am very passionate about the College and the NJ STARS program. Although I was not an NJ STARS student, I am also one of Bergen’s success stories. I had never gone to college but had worked in the corporate sector for 30 years when I was laid off for the third time due to corporate mergers, purges and downsizing during the “lean mean” years . I realized I needed a college education; I sold my home and moved in with my parents. I enrolled full-time at Bergen Community College and got a part-time job as a student at Bergen. At the beginning of my final semester, the first position I was offered was Senior Administrative Assistant to the President of Bergen Community College. I graduated with honors with my Associate’s Degree and as a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and my new boss handed me my diploma at Commencement 2008! In 2014, I was given the opportunity to coordinate the NJ STARS program and work with these exceptional students. I feel that I can capture prospective NJ STARS students’ interest by sharing my experiences at Bergen in the Dr. Judith K. Winn School of Honors and as a Phi Theta Kappa member. I share what I loved about the honors courses and tell them about the many clubs and leadership opportunities available for students, and especially, about the accomplishments of our NJ STARS students and graduates. Many times, it helps students make the decision that Bergen Community College is their best choice! F. Krostek NJ
ckrostek@bergen.edu201-689-705507652 Want to become a STAR?
L. Blakeslee Chair Adam Silverstein Vice Chair Patrick Fletcher Treasurer Joseph Barreto Secretary Louis DeLisio Ritzy
StephenMarkMoralez-DiazLongoF.Pellino,Esq.Dr.SheetalRanjan
Board of Trustees
Eric M. Friedman President Dr. Brock Fisher Vice President of Academic Affairs Meredith Gatzke Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development Nat Saviet Vice President of Facilities
A.J. Trump Vice President of Student Affairs Ron Spaide Chief Information Officer Wilton Thomas-Hooke Chief Financial Officer Cinzia D’Iorio Interim Executive Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Development
Dr.
Alicia
Dr.
Guidolin Hocman Alumni Trustee Executive Staff
Dorothy
Dr.
Larry Hlavenka Executive Director, Public Relations, Community and Cultural Affairs Ronald Miller Executive Director, Bergen Community College Foundation
