Leadership Ledger, Spring 2015 by Leadership Newark

The Leadership Ledger: Progressive Leaders, Agents of Change Spring 2015

The Cherry Blossom Festival in Branch Brook Park New Jersey, 04/13/14. Photo by Gary 718 at www.123RF.com

At Leadership Newark, we not only discuss hard pressing issues and policies impacting our great city we live it. Our state and local policies affords us the opportunity to take in clean air, open spaces, and ecoconscious living. This has been beauteously displayed at the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Branch Brook Park. The annual festival, which hosts more cherry blossoms that the widely known Washington, D.C. blossoms, will host their 2015 festival from April 11-22, 2015

Leadership Newark, Inc. 494 Broad Street, Suite LL10 Newark, NJ 07102 Phone: (973) 350-9200 Fax: (973) 350-9208 leadnewark@leadershipnewark.org @LeadershipNwk

A Message from the CEO

Seminar Recap

Policy Brief: State of the City

Alumni Corner

Alumni Spotlight: Rosa Farias

Upcoming Events

CLI Spotlight

Board of Trustees, Funders & Sponsors

Do You Have Any Good News? We Want To Hear About It! We would love hearing from our alumni! Please share your good news for “Leaders in the Spotlight” or to give updates for the “Alumni Corner” section. It’s up to you! We also want to ensure the network stays connected, so do share updates, such as bios and new personal/business contact information. Please call the office or send info to our Alumni Relations staff at alumni@leadershipnewark.org.

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A Message From The Chief Executive Officer: Happy Spring: After surviving a very cold and unpredictable winter, spring is in the air. Thank goodness! Most of us are ready for some calmer warmer weather at which time we tend to see more people enjoying the outdoors and socializing in and around Newark. Are we going to see you during Newark in Action Week: Educatev Engagev Empower? I hope so! The LN Gala recognizing great honorees and the Public Policy Summit with keynoter Ryan Haygood, the new CEO for the Institute for Social Justice and a private reception in his honor for the LN family will be held June 2nd, 5th, and 6th. Be sure to mark your calendars.

LN Fun Fact: Local Legacies: Celebrating Community Roots

The late Honorable Congressman Donald M. Payne from the 10th Congressional district registered Leadership Newark in The Library of Congress as a Local Legacy. This was done in the year 2000, commemorating the Library of Congress’ bicentennial. Leadership Newark is among the 1300 projects that has become a permanent collection of the American Folklife Center.

The Leadership Ledger is one of the ways we would like to inform our supporters, friends and most importantly our alumni network about LN news and activities as well as tidbits about our alumni. Life manages to keep us all way too busy at times and we want to be sure Leadership Newark remains an important part of your life and the network stays connected. In honor of the upcoming holidays celebrating mothers and fathers, we thought it would be wonderful to hear how a few of our Fellows discuss or model leadership with their children. Of course we also have other highlights and welcome you to share your good news so we can get the word out in future publications. We definitely want to hear and share! A special shout out to the Professors - Class of 2000; the Visionaries - Class of 2005, and the Beacons of Hope - Class of 2010, as they celebrate their 15th, 10th and 5th year anniversary respectively as graduates of the LN family. This month a special celebratory reception is being held in their honor providing an opportunity to connect and re-connect with their LN colleagues. I thank each of those who have rsvp’d thus far and their enthusiasm. A special thank you to the class captains who helped rally the troops: Roslyn Holmes Grant, Larry Crump, L’ Tanya Williamson, Khadijah Olumbe, Zammeah Bivins-Gibson, & Devin Jefferson. I also must say a special thanks to Kitab Rollins for his sponsorship and help in securing the space. You guys have been a wonderful team. Lastly, a bit of CMK inspiration, “Smart leaders know what they don’t know. Learn something new, and share your wisdom as you continue to thrive!” Take good care,

Celia M. King Celia M. King, MPS Chief Executive Officer

State of the City Address

On March 18, 2015, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka held

his first State of the City Address. Baraka took the evening to discuss “Newark 3.0,” a term he coined to represent next steps the state’s largest city will take to keep up with the 21st century economy. Some key policy areas he touched were Health and Wellness and the creation of various clinics, Economic Development and the urge for a stronger relationship with entities like the Port Authority of NY and NJ, Community Development and the success of the Valentine’s Day lot sale, Education in relation to Newark’s goal of increasing post-secondary attainment of residents to 25% by 2025, and Crime and Public Safety and the overall decrease in crime since July 2014. More details can be found on the Leadership Newark website at www.leadershipnewark.org.

Class of 2016 Seminar Recap Health and Human Services – January 14, 2015 An insightful discussion on the merger of Rutgers and University Hospital came to life at the January 2015 seminar. Both operational administrators and medical professionals discusses the partnerships from the board level to community level, and provided evidence-based justification on not privatizing the hospital, which had prior financial challenges. The overview of the public vs. private management debate led the fellows to have a deeper understanding of the impact of health policy on citizens and organizations alike. Facilitated by Leadership Newark alumna, Stacie Newton (LN ’06), fellows were able to get a guided tour of key areas of the hospital including the NJ Trauma Center, the only Level 1 center in the county, the Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Area, which served as the location for the recent case of Ebola, and the Emergency Room. Included in various discussions throughout the day were other Leadership Newark alums and fellows who are also University Hospital/Rutgers employees such as Iesha Suber, ’15, Khadijah Olumbe, ’05, Iveth Mosquera, ’03, Varyfee Siryon, ‘14, and Daryl Yelverton, ’11. Economic and Community Development Seminar – February 11, 2015 In February 2015, Dr. Roland Anglin of the Cornwall Center of Metropolitan Studies of Rutgers University capped the day off for the fellows. Anglin provided an overview of the history and evolution of community and economic development in Newark. Anglin went on to discuss initiatives such as the Newark City of Learning Collaborative, which aims to increase the percentage of residents with postsecondary degrees, and like credentials to 25% by 2025. The day also included experts in workforce development, housing, community development and entrepreneurship supporting the fellows in devising solutions to current issues. The solutions were presented to Chief Executive Officer of the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation Otis Rolley who followed up with responses and clarity on initiatives underway. Finally, Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, Managing Director of the Rutgers Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, and Chike Uzoka, a small business consultant, ended the day with a panel on building sustainable businesses in Newark, NJ. Education – March 11, 2015 “You can either be hopeful or hopeless and I choose to teach the boys to be hopeful,” said Vaughn Thompson, Principal of Eagle Academy in Newark during at the February 2015 seminar. Thompson, along with Senior Program Officer of the Victoria Foundation, Dale Anglin discussed the role of single-gender education in student achievement. Their discussion was supported by both anecdotes and data that showed such institution to be as effective as any other “niche-based” institutions (i.e. Arts High School, all girls’ academy, etc.). The debate which encompassed a diverse array of perspectives around ideal approaches to student success was followed up with additional insight by Nadiyah Sa’id of Newark Public Schools, Dominique Lee (LN’15) of BRICK Academy, and Dr. Karen Thomas (LN ’05) of Marion P. Thomas Charter School discussing social emotional learning and support service delivery in student success. Fellows also visited several schools including St. Benedict’s Prep, Eagle Academy, Marion P. Thomas Charter School, and BRICK Academy. 3

Alumni Corner Happy Mothers’ & Fathers’ Day! Celebrating our network of Moms & Dads who inspire their children to be leaders every day “I teach my children to be great leaders by teaching them how to make good decisions…Inspired by my youngest son…being a leader means being confident so never doubt yourself and always know that you are a good person, a smart person, and a strong person.” – Leah Jackson, LN ‘11

“I have two boys, 15 & 8. I have always instilled in them that they are leaders, and were born to lead others….I stress to them to be trend setters, but never followers.” – Jodi Campbell, LN ’00

“I taught my [adult] children early to be humble, respectful, and purposeful in all that they do…All of my children are leaders in their own right; with hearts for service, compassion, and great determination. I hope that I have lead by example; sharing that a true leader must first know how to ‘serve now and lead later.’” – Teresa Brown, LN ‘16

“Leadership is not about being in charge… I have preached situational leadership to my daughters and explained the importance of understanding their own strengths and weaknesses.” - Allan Marcus, LN ‘16

“Fatherhood is like double jeopardy: it can be trying, but it’s very enjoyable and rewarding.” – Bernard Rollins, LN ‘01

“Kyla has been exposed to LN and the principles it stands for all of her life. It is very important to us that she attend personal development conferences, like the National Young Leaders State Conference, to begin assessing her goals and leadership style.” – Mo Butler, LN ‘02 & Nicole Butler, LN ‘04

“I never would’ve thought that I could learn so much about life from someone who’s yet to fully experience it. That’s one of the wonders of being a parent. The fulfillment of watching an open mind.” – Taseen Peterson, LN ‘13

“My daughter was focused from second grade until now…One thing I always told my daughter is to observe how I treat your mother; if you didn’t learn it in this household, then you don’t take anything less from a man outside.” – Alban “A.J.” Jones, Sr., LN ‘10

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Leaders In The Spotlight: Outstanding Individuals Doing Outstanding Things An important aspect a new employee learns is that skills and systems, developed in her or his previous employment, do not translate into a new role without adaptation to a new environment and openness to learning new skill sets.

Leadership Newark Alumna Rosa Farias, LN ‘12

If there’s one thing most, if not all agree on, winter can be a detriment to one’s social life. The icy roads, slushy sidewalks, windy days, and chilly nights can turn the idea of gathering with colleagues, associates, and friends into a daunting task. This very sentiment was felt on a wintry evening when Rosa Farias, class of 2012 reluctantly agreed to attend an event. Little did she know that attending the event would completely change her life. “I have a pretty long day with teaching and working full-time, so I just wanted to head home,” said Farias, who for eight years, worked for the City of Newark in various capacities including the Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Cory Booker and a Senior Management Associate handling matters such as tax abatements and the Open Public Records Act. It was during this event, Farias would be introduced to one of her future supervisors, Senate President Stephen Sweeney. Since January 2015, Farias has served in the capacity as a Research Associate for the Senate Majority Office in Trenton, NJ. The first 90 days of a new leadership role can be a whirlwind of emotions and lessons. “Every promotion brings a period of transition, the need for new skills and a set of new expectations, challenges and opportunities. Just because you've been successful in one leadership role, you can't assume that your old strategy will automatically succeed in your new role,” said Washington Post writer Patrick Brigger in an August 2011 article.

For Farias, her first 90 days are looking promising. “It’s been such a great learning experience. I’ve worked in City Hall with matters related to taxes and bankruptcy. Now, I’m being pushed to understand bills and laws that impact the state,” she said. In addition, Farias’ strong skills in research were strengthened while completing her Community Leadership Initiative Project as a fellow. As a Research Associate, Farias must be knowledgeable about current trends and policies to understand how a bill impacts the larger community. “For example, there are bills that are passed and when you take a deeper look and analysis into it, it can have an adverse affect in professional associations, people, and businesses. So it’s important to make sure that you understand how each bill impacts the public.” In addition, she shares the importance of distinguishing between personal perspective and what benefits the greater good. “It’s not easy, but it’s possible,” she said. Though Farias made herself home in Trenton, that wasn’t her intention. “Honestly I didn’t have plans on leaving Newark and I didn’t want to leave Newark; I loved working in Newark.” Fortunately, Farias still has the opportunity to serve NJ’s largest city. She found herself being a great resource to Sweeney and connecting him to community partners. Since her inception, she connected him to organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and YouthBuild. “In a new leadership role…absorb the unwritten rules, identify the key players and learn the job’s technical aspects,” said Brigger. Farias echoed the same sentiment. Getting to know the role of other colleagues helps you to understand the structure, system, and culture even more. “I’m learning everyday and love the job that I’m doing.”

**Congratulations, Rosa! We at Leadership Newark look forward to more accomplishments! LN Alums: Have a story to share? Contact the Leadership Newark office at programs@leadershipnewark.org. 5

Save the Dates

Are You Interested In Board Service? v Am I interested in serving on a non-profit or charter school board? v Do I need a refresher governance matters?

v Do I know my fiduciary and legal responsibilities as a volunteer board member?

Leadership Newark Presents Newark In Action Week: Educatev Engagev Empower Celebrating 17 years of civic engagement through education, candid conversations, and networking while building a stronger community. Please join us for what will be a great week celebrating and recognizing community leaders for their noble causes guiding Newark forward. Please be sure to register/RSVP as soon as possible. Hope to see you all there!

Tuesday, June 2, 2015 – 17th Anniversary Gala • 6pm-9pm The Newark Club, Metropolitan Room One Newark Center, 22nd Floor Newark, NJ 07102 Friday, June 5, 2015 – Private Reception Saturday, June 6, 2015 – Public Policy Summit • 8am-4pm Paul Robeson Campus Center Rutgers University 350 Martin Luther King Blvd. Newark, NJ 07102

v Do I know the difference between setting policy, governing and administration for non-profits and/or charter schools? v Do I need a safe space to ask simple questions regarding volunteer Board Service?

These and other important topics will be covered in this comprehensive training session on Saturday, May 9, 2015 8:30am-4:00pm RSVP by May 1st, 2015 by calling the Leadership Newark office at (973) 3509200, registering online at LNBoardservicetraining.eventbrite.co m, or sending an email to programs@leadershipnewark.org.

Nominate a Leader! Know anyone interested in becoming a part of the Class of 2017? Have them apply today! Keep an eye on our website for updates and Meet n’ Greet information. Recruitment is open!

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CLI Spotlight: Class of 2015 [Leadership Newark] classes. I envision it evolving into a critical tool...” said Janel Wright-Artis, LN’15.

The

Class of 2015 is moving along with their Community Leadership Initiative project. Fellows select an organization with a specific need and collaborate with about five members to determine an appropriate solution. The following teams are currently consulting: #teamCityofNewark: This team serves as the brain behind the framework of a future community development corporation focused primarily on the South and West wards. They will provide the city a report that includes extensive research on socioeconomic landscape, qualitative data, and best practices from around the country. “Everyone recognizes there is a lot of work to be done and we are here to help move the Model Neighborhood Initiative further along,” said Christopher Phillips, LN’15 #teamLeadershipNewark: Leadership Newark goes virtual? Yes, indeed! Team members are working on creating an interactive and innovative platform to engage Leadership Newark alumni worldwide to come together and discuss critical public policy topics affecting the Greater Newark region and beyond. “This project could potentially sustain and improve relationships between

#teamUVSO: Get your running gear in order because you might have a race to attend! This team is working on building a comprehensive framework for Unified Vailsburg Services Organization’s All Brick City Class Race. The fellows are putting great effort into supplying the framework and logistical research behind the creation of a race that will touch all five wards of the city. “The Brick City Classic race is an opportunity for my client to address some community issues… I believe the project means a great deal to the client because it will allow them to have a much larger presence in all of Newark…” said Eric Nesmith, LN’ 15. #teamUnitedWay: The United Way of West Essex and Hudson County has challenged this team to create a marketing strategy that stresses the importance of summer learning and enrichment opportunities to families citywide. Fellows are working diligently to identify best practices, and best ways to maximize efforts. “Because the promotion of …enrichment is part of a community work group, effort it allows for the other organizations and stakeholders involved in the work group with UWEWH to benefit from our work as well,” said Awinna Martinez, LN ’15. #teamUrbanLeague: The Urban League of Essex County accepted five fellows’ commitment to create a marketing campaign that will have residents feeling a sense of pride in their Fairmount neighborhood while attracting new residents who see the bright future of the neighborhood. Fellows will deliver an outstanding and artistic presentation of why “There’s Life in Fairmount,” the theme of their prospective campaign.

Board of Trustees Mark A. Chaplin American International Group Hon. Claude A. Coleman, J.S.C Superior Court of NJ, Retired Steven J. Diner, Ph.D. Rutgers-Newark Stephen Genzer, Esq. Saul Ewing, LLP W. Stan Holland Berkeley College, Newark Campus

Barbara E. Kauffman Newark Regional Business Partnership M. Cristina Martinez Thornton Tomasetti, Inc. Kimberly McLain Foundation for Newark’s Future Tanya Y. Mitchell, CPA Newark Alliance

Karen Oliver Moore Prudential Foundation Irene M. O’Brien Rutgers University-Newark Raymond Ocasio La Casa de Don Pedro, Inc. Robert S. Steinbaum, Esq. New Jersey Law Journal

Funders & Sponsors We would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to the foundations, corporations, private donors, and sponsors who believe in our mission and vision. Over the past 17 years, we have been fortunate to have friends such as these committed to Leadership Newark.