“The most rewarding part of working for NJHAP is the knowledge that I am making a true difference in the lives of the patients we work with,” says first-year audiology doctoral student Julianna Mijal.

Second-year audiology student Emma Simas agrees: “You feel nearly as much joy as they do when it’s their turn to get hearing aids. I am always incredibly grateful when they give us a call or send an email or letter and tell us all the new things they are hearing and experiencing with their new hearing aids.”

As students in the only Doctor of Audiology program in the state, Mijal and Simas are responsible for refurbishing donated hearing aids and working with a network of audiologists across the state to distribute them to people with hearing difficulty who may not receive hearing healthcare services otherwise. With oversight from Audiology Clinical Preceptor Elena Kagan-Weitz, they oversee the New Jersey Hearing Aid Project (NJHAP), which is housed in Montclair’s Communication Sciences and Disorders program. The project is a partnership with the state’s .

“Working with NJHAP has been an excellent lesson in humility and humanity,” says Mijal. “Connecting with patients human-to-human and understanding the multifaceted lives that they lead outside of our clinic is key in making them feel seen and heard, which leads to the best care outcomes.”

“The hearing aid project is way bigger than us. I’m so incredibly proud to be part of this project, this community and so intertwined in audiology and hearing aid fitting and selection.”Ěý Ěý Ěý Ěý~ Emma Simas

Kagan-Weitz, who serves as principal investigator and director of the NJHAP, says that in addition to providing people in need with hearing care, it provides audiology students an opportunity to learn new skills. “All of our students have worked directly with NJHAP patients in providing them with audiological care, which incorporates our program’s exceptional education with community outreach for underserved populations.”

The mission: hearing health as social justice

The Audiology program is part of Montclair’s College for Community Health, which operates on the principle that “health is a cornerstone of social justice.” For many low-income seniors and individuals with hearing disabilities, the high cost of hearing aids – which can run as high as $7,000 and are not covered by Medicare – can impede them from navigating life.

Elizabeth Hill, director of the, a part of New Jersey’s Department of Human Services says hearing aids are often “the third most expensive purchase a person might make, after a house and a car.” In addition, she adds that “one of the biggest barriers that individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing face is access to hearing health care… our mandate is to eliminate barriers to participate in society where people live and work and interact.”

Hill says that the partnership with Montclair is essential for the program’s success: “We are one of the most comprehensive hearing aid programs in the country. We are very grateful for the partnership.”

How the partnership works: a cycle of giving

ĚÇĐÄvlog serves as the operational hub for the NJHAP, which started in 2013, and operates as a student-led “hearing aid bank” that provides hearing devices to recipients. It works because of:

• Donations: The program relies on public donations of used hearing aids to maintain its inventory. Donors are encouraged to mail their devices to New Jersey Hearing Aid Project, ĚÇĐÄvlog, 1515 Broad Street, Bldg. B, Bloomfield, NJ 07003.
• Refurbishment: Under Kagan-Weitz’s supervision, Montclair students work in a state-of-the-art lab to refurbish these devices. If devices cannot be refurbished at the University they are sent to outside hearing aid laboratories.
• Distribution: In collaboration with participating audiology clinics and a Montclair mobile audiologist serving 14 counties, the hearing aids are custom-fitted and provided free of charge to eligible NJ residents aged 65+ or those on Social Security Disability Income who have hearing loss.

A learning opportunity for current, prospective students

For audiology students, the NJHAP offers experience that blends professional training with community impact. Second-year audiology student Emma Simas says Montclair has helped almost 100 people get hearing aids and other assistive listening devices in the past year, and there is currently a six-month wait list.

Career Readiness: Students gain hands-on experience. Kagan-Weitz says the audiology doctoral students work together to manage the daily operations of the NJHAP. Selected for their qualifications, she says, the students are “professional, consistently kind and highly collaborative, with a genuine willingness to support others.”

Simas adds: “The Hearing Aid Project has kept me hands-on since Day One. I’ve had early exposure to all the hearing aid brands, manufacturers and history of the technology and how far it’s come.”

Lessons in Client Care: Audiology students provide client care in real time. Simas says she’s learned to manage the expectations of patients and work to establish realistic goals and meet families where they are in the process. “Many of the individuals who participate in NJHAP are faced with a myriad of barriers, many of which involve social stigmas and systems that work against them,” adds Mijal.

Real-World Impact: Montclair students see the direct result of their work as these devices are distributed to those in need. Simas says: “You talk to some of these patients or their families and you build connections with them. This year, the New Jersey Speech-Language and Hearing Association helped us fundraise for hearing aid supplies and made decorative bags for our patients so that we can dispense with their hearing aids with cleaning cloths, hearing aid brushes, battery cases and other tools to keep their hearing aids in the best shape. Being part of these two communities and seeing the combined impact is so heartwarming.”

Are you ready to make an impact?

Apply to the only Doctor of Audiology program in New Jersey and turn newfound clinical excellence into community action.

Kananelo Mokati, a Fulbright Scholar from Lesotho, will return home to work on maternal health policy after overcoming a critical funding challenge with the help of the Department of Public Health.

Kananelo Mokati: A Global Mission for Maternal Health

For Mokati, the journey to a Master of Public Health was fueled by a calling that transcends borders. A Fulbright Scholar and trained midwife, she traveled from her home country of Lesotho in South Africa to ĚÇĐÄvlog to bridge the gap between clinical practice and systemic health policy.

Choosing Montclair was a strategic decision for Mokati, who sought the professional energy of the New York metropolitan area without the overwhelming “noise” of the city. At Montclair, she found her home in the Health Systems Administration and Policy concentration, where she could focus on the structural barriers facing health-care delivery.

However, her journey faced a critical challenge in 2025 when federal funding for her Fulbright program was unexpectedly eliminated. “At that point, it felt like all the hard work I had put in over the past year was about to go down the drain. It wasn’t a lack of support, but a moment where answers simply weren’t available,” Mokati recalls.

With help from her advisor, Professor Amanda Birnbaum, and Public Health Department Chair Lisa Lieberman, Mokati secured a summer internship with the School of Nursing which provided the vital bridge funding needed to keep her on track.

The internship gave her the opportunity to perform grant application work, do a poster presentation and coauthor a research manuscript on “county-level variations in risk-adjusted rates of preterm birth among young mothers in the United States,” the latter of which was accepted for publication in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing.

“What began as one of the most challenging moments of my journey ultimately opened the door to some of the most meaningful opportunities I’ve had,” Mokati says.

Mokati’s passion for public health is rooted in her experience as a midwife – a career that began in her home country but quickly became her life’s work. She’d earned a BS in general nursing and midwifery, a requirement as part of the nursing curriculum, from the National University of Lesotho.
After receiving her MPH, she plans to return to Lesotho before heading back to the U.S. to obtain a doctorate on maternal health policy, “particularly on how health systems can better support women and improve maternal health outcomes.”

Abbigale Damiano, a first-generation graduate, provided life-saving support volunteering for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and will work at a substance use treatment center and join Montclair as an adjunct psychology professor.

Abbigale Damiano: A Local Anchor for Mental Health and Recovery

While Mokati focuses on global systems, Damiano has dedicated her graduate studies to the immediate needs of her local community. Graduating with a Master of Arts in Counseling, with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she has spent her time at Montclair diving into the front lines of the mental health crisis.

As a first-generation graduate, Damiano’s academic journey is a testament to perseverance. She graduated with a BA in Psychology in 2023 and immediately pursued her master’s program, during which she completed a rigorous clinical internship at a nonprofit substance use treatment center, providing support for individuals navigating recovery and co-occurring mental health challenges. She also worked as a teacher’s assistant for Associate Professor Ofelia Rodriguez for three years.

Her commitment to service extends beyond her formal requirements. Damiano also serves as a volunteer for the 988’s Crisis Text Line, providing real-time, life-saving support to individuals in moments of acute distress. For her, Montclair was the place where her innate desire to help was transformed into professional expertise.

“ĚÇĐÄvlog has been more than just a school for me,” Damiano reflects. “It is where I found my purpose, built my leadership skills, and discovered my passion for counseling, student support and community care.”

After graduation, the end of a seven-year student journey, Damiano has a job awaiting her at the crisis facility. She will also join Montclair as an adjunct psychology professor in the fall.

Had she not reached out to professors and department heads during her time at Montclair, she says, “I feel like I wouldn’t be as prepared now graduating or even being able to be an adjunct professor – at the age of 25.”

Reach out to the professors and to your department, they will help you and they will lead you to success.” – Abbigale Damiano

Fulfilling the Mission

Both Mokati and Damiano represent the core values of Montclair’s commitment to community service. Whether advocating for policy changes to protect mothers globally or providing a lifeline to those in crisis locally, these two graduates prove that a Montclair degree is a catalyst for meaningful change.

As they transition from students to alumni, their stories serve as an inspiration to the next generation of students.

Damiano says that as a first-generation college student she had to ask lots of questions in order not to be lost. She advises all students, including commuters like her, to spend time on campus and reach out to faculty. “They’re so many different opportunities on campus that I’m sure people aren’t even aware of,” she says. “Every professor has a different career and different connections, so you don’t know where you’ll end up if you keep up with what they’re offering you.”

“If you are looking for a school that will challenge you, open doors for you and support you – not just to do well academically but to be set up for success after graduation – ĚÇĐÄvlog is the place for you,” says Mokati.

“As someone who moved thousands of miles with nothing but hope and a desire to better myself, I found more than an education here, I found a community that showed up for me when I needed it most. I built meaningful professional networks, and I am leaving as a better version of myself.”

This story is part of a series celebrating ĚÇĐÄvlog’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

“It all blacked out. All I heard was glass shattering and people screaming,” she recalls. “My mom gathered us in one room as far from glass as possible because we thought we were getting bombed.”

While AtiehĚý and her family survived the 3.3 magnitude seismic event, the blast was the “last straw” for a family living through a growing economic crisis and escalating threats of violence. For Atieh, the journey from that blast in Beirut to the Commencement stage at ĚÇĐÄvlog is a tale of profound resilience and a search for a “home” that feels safe.

The persistence to finish

The transition to the United States wasn’t immediate or easy. Even after her family received immigration approval – thanks to a process started by her grandfather, a U.S. citizen since 2004 – Atieh struggled with the move. In what she calls “denial” about what was happening in her home country, she insisted on returning to Lebanon to live with her grandmother so she could complete her first degree in sports science. “I was very persistent. I really wanted to finish what I started there.”

While her family watched her first graduationĚýfrom New Jersey via a YouTube stream, Atieh was already looking toward the next chapter. She moved to the U.S. permanently just one day after her ceremony in July, carrying with her a desire to help others but unsure of how to navigate the American educational system.

“Coming to the USA and choosing Montclair as my school was just life changing. I’m happy to be here. Sometimes, I can’t believe it’s real.” ~ Tia Atieh ’26

A sign in University Hall

Atieh describes her early days at Montclair as navigating a “maze.” She was overwhelmed and hesitant to have her international credits evaluated, fearing her past hard work wouldn’t translate. She found the Physical Education curriculum to be quite different from her studies. However, a chance encounter in University Hall changed everything.

While waiting to speak with an advisor, she noticed the nameplate for the assistant dean for Student Success at the College for Community Health (CCHL): Hanan Atiyat. Seeing a variation of her own surname on the door felt like a cosmic green light. “I was like, ‘Okay, it’s meant for us to be here,’” Atieh says.

After some discussion, Atiyat learned that Atieh had loved tutoring children with learning disabilities in Lebanon.

Atiyat suggested Atieh review the Family Science and Human Development major. It proved to be the perfect bridge between her previous background and her goals. “This is all I ever wanted,” she recalls thinking. She also discovered social work and felt “this is where I’m supposed to be.”

Atiyat assured Atieh that she and other colleagues would help her reach the finish line as quickly as possible. She completed it in three semesters.

“Once Tia found a home in Family Science and Human Development, she transformed disruption into renewed purpose,” Atiyat says. “Tia is a true inspiration. I have no doubt she will continue to make a meaningful impact as both a Montclair alumna and a compassionate global citizen.”

Helping the “Future Change Agents”

Atieh’s passion earned her a spot as an inaugural CCHL Ambassador, where she shares her experience with prospective students. Her work didn’t go unnoticed; she was recently named one of the University’s Outstanding Student Employee award winners, selected from over 100 nominees across the campus.

As part of her role, she gives tours of CCHL and speaks highly about her major: “I always tell prospective students, ‘Imagine how welcoming, empathetic and understanding they’re going to be when they’re talking to you, a future change agent.”

A new horizon

Today, Atieh finds peace in the nature of New Jersey – running trails, kayaking and fishing. She recently completed her first half-marathon, a physical manifestation of her endurance.

As she prepares to enter Montclair’s Master of Social Work program this fall, Atieh is no longer in denial. She is a survivor who has found her voice, nature and immense gratitude.

“I never imagined getting out of those dark places in my head and overcoming all of this,” she says. “I feel more grateful. I’m building a better life for my family and my future family and I’m going to try to help my family back home as much as I can.”

On Monday, Atieh’s family won’t have to watch her graduate on a screen as she receives her BA in Family Science and Human Development. They will be in the stands, cheering for the eldest daughter who crossed an ocean – and survived a blast – to find her way home.

This story is part of a series celebrating ĚÇĐÄvlog’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

Sheridan Van Biert works as a registered dietitian for Gourmet Dining Services at Sam’s Place, the same dining hall where she grabbed meals between classes as a ĚÇĐÄvlog student.

Van Biert did her dietetic internship with Gourmet Dining Services, Montclair’s award-winning dining service provider, while studying Food and Nutrition Science in the College for Community Health,Ěýresulting in her campus career. Her preceptors during her internship are now her colleagues.

“Montclair’s undergraduate and graduate nutrition program helped me prepare for my current role by applying what I learned in the classroom into real-life practice,” says Van Biert ’22, ’24 MA. “From situational group lesson plans and cooking classes as a student to everything in between, it came naturally when I started using these skills for teaching kitchens that we, as dietitians, host for students, as well as presentations we tailor for our athletes.”

The Path to Success:

• Degrees: BS (’22) & MA (’24) in Nutrition and Food Science.
• Program Perk: Combined BS/MS track for faster career entry.
• Real-World Experience: 1,000+ hours of dietetic internship.
• Current Role: Campus RD for Gourmet Dining.

Student Connection

“Being a part of Montclair for so many years I feel is a big advantage when it comes to relating and connecting with the campus community,” Van Biert says. “It’s a valuable aspect to have when providing outpatient counseling to students or chatting with them in the dining halls and around campus.”

Gourmet’s Director of Dining and Wellness Jennifer Bostedo, RDN, Van Biert’s supervisor, echoes those benefits, noting that Montclair’s Food and Nutrition Science program well prepared her for the position. “Hiring a Montclair grad gives us the benefit of a rigorously, well-trained professional who has an intimate knowledge of the campus culture. It allows us to tailor food and beverage offerings to meet the needs of today’s students better.”

Montclair’s Nutrition Program continues to contribute to Van Biert’s career success. “Having built a strong sense of adaptability has been invaluable in my current role, as each workday varies significantly and involves juggling multiple diverse responsibilities.”

I understand the students’ perspective, as well as the food service perspective. I always like to think back to what I was excited about coming into the dining hall. It’s kind of a full circle moment.” ~ Sheridan Van Biert

Paying It Forward

Today, Van Biert helps guide Montclair student dietetic interns, collaborates with her former professors on nutrition research and student wellness initiatives and ensures nutritious, delicious meals for the Montclair community. “Now she and the other dietitians on campus continue the cycle as we precept future dietitians who started just like Sheridan did, right here at Montclair,” says Bostedo.

I love the connections I’ve made at Montclair, the people I’ve met, the campus, the community.”

for a complete look at Sheridan Van Biert’s day and her attention to details as a food service professional and nutrition counselor.

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Want to turn your passion for wellness into a career? Explore our Nutrition & Food Science Programs. See yourself at Montclair, Schedule a Campus Tour.

Sophomore Public Health major and Bonner Leader Program participant Mateo Llano, who was among this year’s group of student volunteers, says he enjoys volunteer opportunities. “Volunteering benefits me because it allows me to gain education and awareness about the issues that are affecting different groups of people on a day-to-day basis,” says Llano, who along with other student leaders, spent MLK Day sorting and selecting food for clients at the food pantry of the of Fairview.

Mikaela Guzman ’22, Bonner Leader and Service Coordinator with the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships, says there are many benefits to service: “Volunteering helps students develop leadership, empathy, collaboration and strong problem-solving skills. They are fully immersed in communities that are diverse in every sense, as volunteering brings together people of different religious, ethnic, cultural and political backgrounds who unite for the common good.”

Montclair Students Deliver on Service – Together

A total of 310 students from the Bonner Leader Program, NextGen Service Corps, AmeriCorps and Greek and student organizations, such as the Latin American Student Association, Mexican-American Student Association, Feliciano Women in Business and the Haitian Student Association, fanned out across New Jersey communities to give back. The students assisted 18 community partner organizations, such as the,, and other nonprofit agencies helping with food insecurity, dental care and hygiene and other needs.

My service experience has taught me how to lead effectively.” ~ Mikaela Guzman ’22, Bonner Leader and Service Coordinator with the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships

Service Opportunities at Montclair That Go Beyond One Day

While the Day of Service brings hundreds of students together, Montclair offers meaningful volunteer opportunities throughout the academic year. For months, for example, Montclair students, faculty and staff have helped build a home in Paterson’s One Square Mile. Students and organizers encourage peers to get involved by:

• Exploring opportunities on and around campus through the
• Attending community service events hosted by student organizations
• Connecting directly with the Volunteer Center for opportunities or collaborations
• Following on social media
• Emailing volunteer@montclair.edu
• Engaging with the Office Of Community Engagement and Partnerships

Llano offers fellow citizen leaders this simple but important advice before serving: “Always ask if a community member needs help and always ask questions to get the best volunteer experience.”

Why Volunteering Matters – for Communities and for You

Research consistently shows that volunteering benefits those receiving service and those giving their time and talents. Guzman emphasizes that service is rooted in collective action: “We are not meant to solve complex problems alone; real meaningful change happens when people come together.”

For students, volunteering “exposes students to perspectives different from their own, which deepens empathy and strengthens self-awareness,” while also placing them “in situations that challenge them to embrace who they are as leaders, put their best foot forward and step outside of their comfort zones.”

Lastly, it “fosters a sense of togetherness and unity that is essential for students to experience,” Guzman says.

The Personal and Professional Benefits of Service

Among the many benefits to volunteering:

• Promotes personal growth and self-esteem
• Has been shown to reduce stress
• Provides fun activities and interactions
• Creates opportunities to meet new people
• Positively impacts the lives of strangers
• Offers leadership experience
• Strengthens career prospects – one in five managers report hiring someone because of their volunteering experience.

Reflecting on her own career at Montclair, Guzman adds: “My service experiences helped me stand out, even as one of the youngest professionals in my office. They built my confidence, taught me how to remain grounded under pressure, and strengthened my ability to problem-solve quickly and adapt when challenges arise.”

Ready to find your place in ĚÇĐÄvlog’s community engagement efforts? and explore our nationally ranked programs, visit campus or .

Journalists: Contact the media relations team for assets or to schedule an interview.

A GED earner, Howard will receive her Bachelor of Arts in Family Science and Human Development during the College for Community Health portion of the ceremony. Her journey embodies the spirit of Montclair’s graduates and mission: students who broaden access to opportunity and uplift others along the way.

A Mother’s Dream Becomes a National Brand

Howard became a single mother at 16. Raised in Harlem in the foster care system, she wanted a different future for her young son, Cory Nieves so the two moved to Englewood, New Jersey, navigating daily life by bus. When 5-year-old Cory wished for a car to help them get around, he came up with an idea – selling hot chocolate and then cookies.

began at home. What followed was extraordinary. The mother-and-son business gained national attention, appearing in local, regional and national media, including and appearances on and the reality TV show . At its height, the company, which resulted in Howard’s Cookie moniker, reportedly surpassed $1 million in sales.

And then it all crumbled.

Loss, Homelessness and Starting Again

The COVID-19 pandemic halted sales. The business unraveled. Howard and her son lost their home and eventually moved into a shelter.

“I made it to the top and fell back down,” Howard says. “That’s a part of being an entrepreneur; it’s part of being human. I just pray that with the grace of God things will get better.”

Despite the ups and downs, Howard refused to give up – on herself or on education.

Returning to School Against the Odds

While still operating and working odd jobs, Howard, 37, enrolled at Montclair as a non-traditional student, navigating financial instability, a documented learning disability and the daily realities of survival. There were moments when continuing felt impossible, particularly when her car – the 2015 Ford Escape gifted to her on Ellen – broke down and she again faced eviction and homelessness.

“These were times when everything felt dark, and I honestly didn’t see a way out,” she says. “But by God’s grace, I was able to keep my apartment. I held on to the little bit of light I had left, and somehow, it shined right through.”

Melissa Pecora, Howard’s EOF counselor and academic advisor, watched that perseverance firsthand. “Cookie has overcome countless challenges with remarkable resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles she’s faced, she continues to rise above them and has shown that challenges can become opportunities for future success,” she says. “I have watched her excel academically while achieving significant personal milestones.”

“Cookie exemplifies a unique balance of grit, creativity and unrelenting drive. She is an inspiration to all scholars, particularly those adult learners who may be reluctant to enroll in college.” ~ Daniel Jean, AssociateĚý Provost for Educational Opportunity and Success Programs

Three Buses, No Internet, No Excuses

Unable to afford the car repairs or an internet connection, she left home three hours early, taking three buses to campus to make her 9 a.m. class. Using the internet on campus, Howard routinely stayed late into the evening, juggling class assignments and her internship and leadership of the Adult Student Advocacy Program (ASAP).

From her warmth and humor, few would know her struggles, as her light also illuminated others.

“I’ve had students come to the office asking for her or mentioning how much she helped them,” says Meghan Hearns, director of the Disability Resource Center, where Howard is a constant presence.

Advocacy as a Calling

Howard’s impact at Montclair extends far beyond the classroom. She became a mentor and presenter for students connected to the Disability Resource Center, spoke at the Disability Awareness Month flag-raising ceremony, and earned the prestigious Charlotte W. Newcombe Scholarship for Students with Disabilities.

Her most lasting contribution, however, is the Adult Student Advocacy Program – a support network she founded to help non-traditional students navigate school while balancing work, family and life challenges.

“Adult students have a lot of stuff that’s going on in our lives,” Howard says. “We sometimes feel like no one cares, but we have to open our mouths and say, ‘Hey, I need help.’ People want to help you.”

A Tribe That Wouldn’t Let Her Quit

Despite the hardship, Howard persisted with the help of the people around her.

“It took a tribe of people to get involved and say, ‘We believe in you,’” she says. “That gave me the confidence to continue.”

Support came from people on and off campus. Howard credits and is grateful for the many who helped her, including Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Margaree Coleman-Carter, whom she credits for making her internship possible, Office of Student Belonging Assistant Dean Jonnine DeLoatch, and a host ofĚý professors, advisors and even University Police – some of whom, she says, bought her meals, pitched in for car repairs or other needs. She also credits her church family at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack, some of whom will be at Commencement, for helping her get to the graduation stage.

“They just didn’t give up on me,” Howard says. “I kept holding on, and I’m happy I did.”

Academic Advisor Natalia Pizarro-Valencia credits Howard’s “hard work, perseverance and commitment to learning” to accomplish her goal. “It’s been a truly humbling experience to support Cookie throughout her academic journey. Witnessing her effort, growth and dedication has been both inspiring and rewarding.”

Looking Ahead, Giving Back

Howard’s plans to continue her post-graduate studies. She’s considering attending Drew University, where she’s been accepted. Her goals include community activism, philanthropy and humanitarian work – “pastoral work without the collar,” as she puts it.

“I want to work with single mothers and at-risk kids,” she says. “That’s why I’m going for my Master of Divinity.”

As she crosses the stage January 13, Howard’s journey affirms that with resilience – and the right support – students at ĚÇĐÄvlog can transform adversity into achievement.

Story by Sylvia A. Martinez Photography by University Photographer Mike Peters.

This story is part of a series celebrating ĚÇĐÄvlog’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

Prospective students: Learn more about Montclair’s Family Science and Human Development or explore other College for Community Health programs.

Journalists: Contact Montclair’s Media Relations team for assets or to schedule an interview on this topic

Ěý

“I’m extremely proud to say that my working experiences have allowed me to pay for my bachelor’s degree program all on my own,” says Abrom, who will be participating in Winter 2026 Commencement Tuesday at Prudential Center in Newark. A student in Montclair’s College for Community Health, Abrom’s degree concentration was in Applied Nutrition and Wellness with aĚý minor in Sports Nutrition.

Balancing work and academics, she adds, taught her lessons that will shape her future. “I now have a better commitment to financial planning, proper time management and a passion for working and what I do.”

Her father, Gregory Abrom, says, “We are extremely proud of Allison and all she has accomplished. She can now start her life without the burden of debt. Allison learned she can set a goal and accomplish it no matter what stands in the way.”

Determination from Day One

Abrom enrolled at Montclair in fall 2019 knowing her path might look different. She and her parents thought it was possible for her to self-fund her education without incurring student debt. “My parents and I view college and higher education as a privilege,” she says, adding that “working to pay for my education fully will set me up for financial freedom and success.”

At times, Abrom took only as many classes as she could afford. She was determined to do it on her own – and she’s not afraid to apply herself.

“I’m a really hard worker,” she says proudly. “I genuinely like to work, and so does pretty much everybody in my family.” Abrom worked more than full-time as a head food server at a country club while working toward her bachelor’s degree, saving as much money as she could along the way.

That work ethic became the foundation of her college experience. Associate Professor of Nutrition and Food Studies Doreen Liou says that showed in her school projects. She describes Abrom as “a proactive student, projecting a positive attitude and zeal in learning.”

Sacrifices That Paid Off

To stay enrolled at Montclair, Abrom often worked 40 to 50 hours a week at the country club until the demand became unsustainable. Although it paid well, she quit when expectations began to conflict with her education.

“They were expecting me to put the work before school, so I was like, I can’t be in that environment anymore,” she says.

She found a desk job closer to home at a golf simulator – one that allowed her to study during slower periods.

Social sacrifices followed as well, as tuition and textbooks took priority. “I had to say no to certain social outings, which allowed me to put more time into work,” she says. “I felt like I was kind of distancing myself from friends, but now my friends are so proud of me, so it doesn’t matter.”

It definitely was hard, especially being young in your 20s, to be more responsible with money but in the end, it was worth it.” Allison Abrom ’26, BS Nutrition and Food Science

Learning By Doing

Last summer, Abrom completed her required nutrition internship at the Meadowlands YMCA, where she assisted with the SNAP-Ed food pantry program, developed nutritious recipes using pantry ingredients and wrote nutrition-focused articles. She also created healthy recipes for YMCA members.

“I was granted a working environment that prompted creativity and allowed me to fully trust in my own knowledge and education,” she says.

The experience reinforced her commitment to community-based nutrition and wellness – work that aligns directly with Montclair’s public-service mission.

Looking Ahead – and Giving Back

Abrom will be cheered on by her father, mother, Laura, and brother, Drew, at Commencement on January 13. Her long-term goals include careers in corporate wellness, sports counseling or community nutrition, as well as teaching as an adjunct professor.

“I am incredibly thankful for my time in my undergraduate program at ĚÇĐÄvlog,” she says, “and I am proud of the person it has helped me become both in a professional and personal way.”

Research from the Pew Research Center shows that college graduates with student loan debt are more likely to question. Abrom’s answer is emphatically clear. In fact, her immediate post-Commencement plans: to pursue a master’s degree and a certificate in Nutrition and Exercise Science at ĚÇĐÄvlog.

She’ll be paying her own way, of course.

Story by Sylvia A. Martinez Photography by University Photographer Mike Peters.

This story is part of a series celebrating ĚÇĐÄvlog’s graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

Prospective students: Learn more about Montclair’s Nutrition and Food Science programs.

Journalists: Contact Montclair’s Media Relations team for assets or to schedule an interview on this topic

“I didn’t know about these resources…and these are all free? Oh my gosh,” she recalls thinking. “It’s great.”

Sakae didn’t just become a visitor – she volunteered for months and now serves as a graduate assistant at the Pantry while pursuing her master’s in Nutrition and Food Science.

“I was able to pursue my dream education because everyone around me was helping my food security,” Sakae says. “If I was always hungry, thinking about what and how I was going to eat tomorrow, I wouldn’t be able to succeed.”

Her experience mirrors what research shows: If a student’s basic needs are not met, their academics, mental health and overall wellness will be negatively impacted. It is also indicative of a growing reality on college campuses across the country: Food insecurity among students is increasing and demand for support services continues to rise.

A Growing Need on College Campuses

“There’s definitely been an increase,” says Assistant Director of Student Access to Community Services Frances Jelks-Brown, who oversees the Pantry and Rocky’s Closet. She points to end-of-semester pressures, limited meal swipes and interruptions in SNAP benefits as contributing factors.

“Food insecurity is a major concern for our students, particularly when we’re nearing the end of a semester; a lot of students start to run out of their meal swipes, and those on SNAP benefits may still not know if they’ll be getting benefits again,” she says.

In the past six months alone, the Pantry has distributed 57,289 pounds of food and essentials, surpassing the 42,534 pounds distributed during the entire previous year.

The Red Hawk Pantry was established in 2016 after a student-led survey showed that nearly half of college students experience some form of food insecurity – a trend echoed in faculty research that led to the creation of Montclair’s Hunger Free Campus Task Force in 2019. Montclair became the first four-year university in New Jersey to open an on-campus food pantry, which is now common on many college campuses.

I was able to pursue my dream education because everyone around me was helping my food security.” ~ Kaori Sakae, graduate student

But with increased demands to food pantries and soup kitchens nationwide, a rise in Red Hawk Pantry visits is not surprising, says Fatima deCarvalho, senior associate dean in Student Development and Campus Life, who also serves on the Hunger-Free Task Force. “We are a microcosm of what is occurring in our society, so when you see food insecurities increase in our society, you’re going to see the same concerns on our college campuses.”

How Montclair Is Working Toward a Hunger-Free Campus

Montclair’s response is broad and collaborative, with multiple departments – from the Student Health Center to University FacilitiesĚý– sponsoring food collection drives to meet students’ needs. The Pantry provides free food, hygiene products and household essentials, all funded through donations and grants. The University employs a full-time staffer but provides no operating funds.

“We are able to meet the need, but needs continue to grow,” deCarvalho says, noting the necessity for limited hours of operation and restrictions on the number of items visitors can take per visit.

Key Pantry partners include the Food Recovery Network, which is made up of student volunteers who work with Gourmet Dining to recover leftover meals from dining halls, individually package them and take them to the Pantry for distribution. In addition to preventing food waste, it provides Pantry visitors with greater food choices, says Student Development and Campus Life’s Director of Advocacy and Outreach Adela Caceres. Fresh produce is also supplied by Gourmet Dining and the Montclair Campus Community Garden. “Students come in, we give them a bag, and they leave with fresh fruits and vegetables,” Jelks-Brown says.

Moreover, Gourmet Dining’s Director of Dining and Wellness Jennifer Bostedo says that their NOURISH program endeavors to “make good nutrition choices accessible at any price point and provide the customized resources and nutrition education to make it attainable at any level. Our numerous dining venues follow suit, to make sure students have access to the best balance and value to fuel a great Red Hawk day.”

Additional support comes from the and the, owners and operators of 23 ShopRite stores in Bergen, Hudson and Passaic counties, both of which regularly provide pallets of food to the Pantry. Other campus partners, too numerous to mention, include the Student Government Association and the Latin American Student Organization.

De-stigmatizing the Need for Services and Support

Sakae says international students often face additional challenges, citing ineligibility for federal aid, limited work opportunities and lack of transportation.

One Pantry visitor, Ahmed Moussa, who is legally blind, says student staffers go out of their way to ensure accessibility.

“They’ve been a great help,” Moussa says, explaining that accommodations such as flexible hours and personalized assistance make the Pantry easier to navigate.

A welcoming environment also may play a role in students’ seeking services, says Caceres, adding that Montclair has worked hard to “de-stigmatize” request for services.

“Our student staff are trained to approach every single visitor with a welcoming demeanor and in a respectful and dignified manner as they seek support,” she says, adding, that in addition to surging costs and instability of public resources, such as SNAP, “I believe that has been one of the factors impacting the increase in usage. Hence, students like Ahmed, are welcomed and supported in unique ways based on their individual needs.”

Our student staff are trained to approach every single visitor with a welcoming demeanor and in a respectful and dignified manner as they seek support.” ~ Adela Caceres, Student Development and Campus Life’s Director of Advocacy and Outreach

Learning While Giving Back

For Sakae, working at the Pantry is both educational and gratifying.

“Every day is a new learning,” she says. “Some students don’t have microwaves. Some have dietary restrictions. Having all different kinds of food and being able to help them is really, really rewarding. That’s what I love.”

Her goal is to work in community nutrition and to one day open her own food pantry, where she can teach people how to make healthy and nutritious meals.

Expanding Resources for Students

Montclair recently received a $52,000 grant from the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, which it will use to , expand access to food, transportation and emergency grocery assistance at Montclair, while also supporting ongoing research on student food insecurity.

In addition to the Red Hawk Pantry, Montclair students have access to other programs, all designed to ensure they can focus on learning and not hunger.

As deCarvalho puts it, “If you don’t have money for food, you probably don’t have money for toiletries. It’s important that we make those items available, so students can take care of their basic needs. Donations are impactful not only for us, but for the students coming here because you are not only helping their food insecurity, you’re also helping them thrive in life.”

That’s definitely how Sakae sees it: “Being a graduate assistant at Red Hawk Pantry is deeply meaningful because beyond food insecurity, I’m assisting the academic success and life success of students.”

Resources Available to Students, Faculty and Staff

• Red Hawk Pantry – Located at Blanton Hall, Room 1200, the Pantry provides free food, hygiene items and household essentials. All visitors must register at to attain food and other products. Contact the Pantry via email if you are unable to visit during regular operating hours.
  • For donors, the Pantry makes it easy to or via an .
• Shuttle Service to nearby ShopRite and other stores that accept SNAP benefits. Operated by University Facilities, shuttles are available on Wednesday and Saturday.
• Food Recovery Network, a student-led initiative, which collects healthy Gourmet Dining-prepared meals at Sam’s Place; complete meals are frozen and available to students at Red Hawk Pantry.
• Food Champion Program, which redistributes leftovers from catered campus events to students via Canvas on a first-come, first-served basis. Students can opt-in to this program via Canvas.
• Campus Community Garden, where the campus community grows and provides fresh produce to Red Hawk Pantry. Gardeners can keep some of what they grow or donate it all to the Pantry.
• Swipe Out Hunger, a national initiative enabling students to donate unused meal swipes to peers in need.
• Registered Dietitian Program, which provides counseling services free of charge to students, faculty and staff on a small group and one-on-one basis to address food literacy and insecurity, as well as assistance on how to shop for seasonal, budget-friendly and nutritious foods. “A nourishing focus can lead to a well-fueled student who can perform academically better,” says Bostedo.
• Cans for Citations, a Facilities-led effort which allows campus community members to donate canned goods in exchange for a $10 reduction of one parking citation. All the canned goods go to Red Hawk Pantry.

Story: Sylvia A. Martinez Photography: University Photographer Mike Peters.

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

Prospective students: Learn more about Montclair’s Nutrition and Food Science programs and efforts to ensure a Hunger-Free campus.

Journalists: Contact Montclair’s Media Relations team for assets or to schedule an interview on this topic.

“Colette has made tremendous progress,” says SLP graduate student researcher Alexis Gallagher, who has been working with her throughout the study. “It can be disheartening in the beginning because they’re trying something new, and it’s not changing. Then, I think it was session four or five, suddenly, there was the ‘r’ sound. It’s thrilling.”

The software program they are using was designed by Hitchcock, a leading expert in speech-sound disorders, who, along with more than 20 colleagues across three universities, published “gold-standard evidence that biofeedback accelerates early progress with children” in the.

A Rapid Breakthrough for a Young Learner

After nearly three years of school-based therapy in Florida, improvement on the ‘r’ sound remained painfully slow for Colette, a general indicator of a Residual Speech Sound Disorder (RSSD). “While she’d made gains with other sounds, we just never saw progress with the ‘r’ sound,” says Colette’s mother, Meghan Fougere, a speech-language pathologist herself. A 2014 Montclair SLP alumna, she also tried helping her daughter.

“I kept thinking, ‘I can fix it,’ and I wasn’t fixing it. I had done my best at home with her until she realized that she didn’t want her mommy working on her speech sounds with her. She wanted me to just be mommy.”

After moving back to New Jersey and before investing in private therapy, Fougere reached out to her former professor, Hitchcock, who invited Colette to participate in a new research project using biofeedback technology. “In just a few weeks, we started hearing a difference,” Fougere says.

Hitchcock says: “We managed to create this pilot study for Colette to work on a sound that has long been difficult for her, but to also work on a developing aspect of our treatment program.” Hitchcock’s research is funded by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant focused on improving children’s speech therapy. The goal is to better understand how kids hear and produce speech sounds, and to see whether new visual biofeedback tools and listening-based training work just as well online as they do in person. So far, more than 100 children ages 8 to 18 have taken part in the study. Gallagher then applied for – and received – a Montclair Graduate Student Research Award to move the pilot program forward.

How the Game-Changing Technology Works

The visual-acoustic biofeedback software program provides a real-time display of Colette’s ‘r’ compared to a target representing the desired output, enabling her to both hear and see when she pronounces her ‘r’ correctly. Biofeedback has shown promising results in people with RSSD who have not responded to previous treatments.

This new research has tremendous potential to improve outcomes for children and in much less time.” ~ Elaine Hitchcock, Communication Sciences and Disorders Chairperson

More traditional motor-based treatment for speech disorders often relies on imitation, sound modeling or props such as a mouth-and-tongue puppet. But the ‘r’ sound is uniquely challenging: there is no single right tongue placement, as partly evidenced by 22 different ultrasound images of ‘r’ production pinned to the wall where Colette practices.

“We’ve had a lot of success in situations that have not been successful before with the use of visual biofeedback,” Hitchcock explains. “They’re using the biofeedback as a way to ‘see’ if they’re saying the sound correctly; we’re working around a flawed auditory feedback system to utilize the visual system.”

Why Early Speech Intervention MattersĚý

Many children struggle with but self-correct the ‘r’ sound. When the issue persists, however, itĚý can become problematic when teasing or frustration begins and lead to obstacles in both social and academic environments.

The biofeedback technology “is more effective, and a faster means to an end,” says Hitchcock.
The stakes are surprisingly high. Left unaddressed, speech sound disorders and articulation challenges can affect people well into adulthood – impacting confidence, relationships and even income, says Hitchcock. “So, across the lifespan, it’s a surprisingly large impact, given that it can be as simple as one sound error.”

Montclair’s Nationally RecognizedĚýSLP Program Offers Research Opportunities

The long-term goal is to train clinicians in the effective use of biofeedback technology including in telehealth practices, making speech therapy more accessible to people, including those in rural areas, who may need treatment for speech sound disorders.

ĚÇĐÄvlog’s Speech-Language Pathology program is nationally recognized for integrating clinical training with faculty-led research, giving graduate students hands-on experience with innovative treatments like visual biofeedback. Currently, Montclair is vetting an app developed by an NYU researcher, which could be more accessible to clinicians.

I wanted to join Dr. Hitchcock in her work because this opportunity does not exist anywhere else.” ~ Alexis Gallagher, SLP graduate student

Making a Lasting Impact as an SLP Graduate Student

For Gallagher, the project is more than just a research opportunity – it’s personal. A former theater, TV and film actor who changed careers post-COVID, she came to Montclair specifically to work with Hitchcock. She also witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact that speech therapy had on her own daughter, who overcame similar speech difficulties as Colette’s.

Gallagher explains that Montclair offers her “a biofeedback clinic where you can learn” from one of the best researchers in the field. “She literally wrote the program we were doing. Why would I not take the opportunity to learn how to teach a child how to do their ‘r’s using this equipment when the author of it is standing over my shoulder, training me, helping me, guiding me?”

While Colette can now produce her ‘r’s in syllables, words and phrases, she occasionally slips back into losing the ‘r’ in casual conversation and will continue working with the research therapist in the spring, until Gallagher graduates with a master’s in SLP.

Meanwhile, Gallagher is determined to make a difference for Colette. “I know what that feels like as a parent, it’s devastating,” she says, “I want to help this child.”

Story by Sylvia A. Martinez

Ready to shape the future of speech-language pathology? Apply to Montclair’s SLP graduate program.Ěý Explore other nationally ranked programs, visit campus, , or.

Journalists: Contact the media relations team for assets or to schedule an interview.

“This partnership reflects ĚÇĐÄvlog’s deep commitment to serving the public good through impactful, community-based collaboration,” said President Jonathan Koppell. “We are proud to expand our myriad of partnerships with Essex County and grateful to County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo for recognizing what is possible when academic expertise of our Department of Public Health is aligned with Essex County’s forward-thinking leadership. Together, we are building a model for how universities and local governments can work together to strengthen public health infrastructure, train the next generation of professionals and improve the well-being of the communities we serve.”

Dean Ron Werner-Wilson of Montclair’s College for Community Health added, “We are committed to teaching, research and service that promotes equitable healthcare and wellbeing in New Jersey and beyond. As the Dean of the College, I am delighted that this Academic Health Department partnership with the Essex County Office of Public Health Management will enable us to join our individual commitments to public health, multiplying our impact on Essex County residents, while building our students’ skills and expertise.”

“Montclair State always has been a great partner with us and their involvement and presence in the community is second to none. Combining the talent and resources of both our institutions will enhance the outreach and service we provide to our residents, develop innovative approaches to enhance wellness and preparedness and create a pipeline to develop future public health officials,” DiVincenzo said.

“County Executive DiVincenzo understands the importance of public health and I appreciate the guidance and support he has given as we have worked to create a public health program that responds and can adapt to the needs of our diverse community. Joining with Montclair State brings two public health powerhouses together in a relationship that will benefit our residents,” said Maya Harlow, Essex County Public Health Officer and Director of the Essex County Office of Public Health Management.

The agreement formalizes an existing working relationship between the two entities and strengthens their shared commitment to serve the public, foster research initiatives and share resources when needed. By working more closely together, the County and University will be able to create a coordinated approach to preventing disease, promoting wellness and public health education and preparing for emergencies. The combination of practical experience by the County’s public health officials and academic insight from the University’s teachers and students is an opportunity to improve outcomes, create innovative approaches to promoting public health and serve as a model for community-centered public health practice.

In addition, the agreement creates a workforce development pathway for ĚÇĐÄvlog students to gain real-world, research and data analysis experience by interning with the Essex County Office of Public Health Management. Interns would be involved in data collection and analysis, assist with existing public health programs and outreach initiatives, and participate in public advocacy and emergency preparedness in cooperation with Essex County. The University would ensure students meet academic requirements and understand the health department’s policies and procedures.

The Essex County Office of Public Health Management had a major role in organizing and administering Essex County’s highly successful COVID-19 testing and vaccination program during the pandemic. Through a partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, Essex County also has established a successful mobile outreach program and student vaccination clinic initiative.

The ĚÇĐÄvlog Department of Public Health, in the College for Community Health, has worked for decades to train the public health workforce of NJ, with alumni in public health leadership roles across the state and the region, to address a wide range of public health needs. These have included responding to the Covid-19 pandemic, maternal and child health challenges in the state, tobacco and substance use reduction, and more.

Discover More at Montclair

Prospective Students and Parents: Plan your visitĚýandĚýtake your first stepĚýin . Learn more about the Department of Public Health in the College for Community Health.
Journalists:ĚýContactĚýMedia Relations for assets or to schedule an interview on this topic.