KELLY L. MEOLA, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement
Kelly L. Meola
At County College of Morris (CCM), Fall marks a fresh start. We lay the groundwork for the year ahead, supporting our students, faculty, and community.
I am grateful for the continuous opportunities to support our students and alumni. As the philanthropic arm of the college, we raise funds for scholarships, programs, and campus projects, and assist with resources to help continue fulfilling our mission. Our campus is evolving with new and renovated facilities, with construction currently underway, thanks to the generosity of our contributors.
The CCM Foundation is dedicated to fostering a community that supports our students and alumni. Whether you’ve attended our annual Gala, the President’s Golf Classic, or contributed to the Titan Emergency Fund which helps students continue their education during challenging times, your impact has made a difference.
You are the community that makes things possible. By contributing to the CCM Foundation, you provide resources for growth, excellence, and success resulting in a strong college, robust workforce, and a promising society.
Thank you for your continued support and for helping to lay the groundwork for this academic year and beyond.
Kelly L. Meola Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
INVESTING
IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF NURSES
The CCM Foundation is honored to receive a $50,000 grant from the Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation (SHCHF) to provide scholarships for nursing students during the 2025–26 academic year. This generous investment will directly help students cover tuition, books, uniforms, and supplies—easing financial barriers so they can focus on the rigorous training required to enter the nursing profession.
This gift also aligns with CCM’s vision for the future of healthcare education. With support from local and state funding, as well as generous contributions from private donors, the college is building a new, 80,000-square-foot Center for Health Professions, designed to mirror today’s leading medical centers. The Center will feature advanced classrooms, labs, and simulation environments— expanding opportunities for students in Nursing and Allied Health to train collaboratively and enter the workforce job-ready.
Established in 2019 as a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation of New Jersey, SHCHF is committed to advancing healthcare in the region. As SHCHF Board Chair Lesley Hetherington explains, “Supporting nursing education at County College of Morris helps remove financial barriers so more students can pursue their calling and prepare to become the skilled healthcare workforce our community will depend on for years to come.”
OF GIVING THE POWER
CRUM & FORSTER INVESTS $50,000 TO BOOST COLLEGE PROMISE STUDENTS AT CCM
The CCM Foundation is excited to announce a $50,000 gift from Crum & Forster to support the College Promise Program (CPP) . This generous investment is helping first-generation and underserved high school students in Dover and Morristown access academic support, college readiness services, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Crum & Forster’s support goes beyond the classroom, from funding scholarships to offering mentoring, community service projects, career exploration, and student engagement activities. These initiatives give students the skills, guidance, and real-world experiences needed to thrive in college and prepare for meaningful careers that strengthen the local economy.
By partnering with CCM, Crum & Forster creates equitable pathways to higher education while investing in the future of the region. Their commitment ensures students are empowered to achieve their educational goals and make a positive impact in their communities.
CCM STUDENTS PAYING IT FORWARD
CCM students value giving back. Over the past year, several student clubs generously supported the CCM Foundation, including Alpha Beta Gamma (ABG Scholarship), Art Club (Titans Table), Environmental Club (Tree Guides), Fashion Club (General Scholarship Fund), and the Student Government Association (SGA Scholarship and Pollinator Garden projects).
The Office of Campus Life enhances the student experience by offering programs, events, trips, and leadership opportunities that complement classroom learning. These experiences help students grow personally, achieve academically, and engage with their community.
By supporting the CCM Foundation, student clubs demonstrate their commitment to strengthening campus life and helping future students access scholarships, programs, and opportunities, ensuring a brighter, more vibrant CCM community.
CELEBRATING CREATIVITY THROUGH GIVING
In honor of Charlotte Mandel’s 100th birthday and as the first Poet’s Prize recipient in 2012, the Mandel Family generously donated to the NJ Poet’s Prize at CCM, celebrating exceptional poetic talent.
Since 2010, editors of the Journal of NJ Poets have selected one standout poem each year for this prestigious award. Winners receive a cash prize and the opportunity to share their work at CCM during a poetry reading and recognition ceremony, highlighting the vibrant voices of New Jersey poets.
This generous gift is another wonderful example of how the CCM Foundation supports the college community, helping to enrich students’ educational and cultural experiences while celebrating the talent and creativity of New Jersey poets.
Charlotte Mandel
WHY I GIVE: VOICES OF PHILANTHROPY
DR. KATRINA BELL Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs & Workforce Development
1. WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO CCM?
As an employee of CCM, I see every day how the college transforms lives. I believe deeply in the community college mission—meeting students where they are in their educational journey and helping them build pathways to success.
DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE DIFFERENT WAYS TO GIVE?
• Employer-Matching
• Stocks and Securities
• Donor-Advised Funds
• Qualified DistributionsCharitable
• Legacy Gifts
2. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SUPPORT THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIP FUND?
I’m inspired by the determination of adult learners who return to complete their GED while balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities. This fund helps remove financial barriers so they can focus on their education and take meaningful steps toward family-sustaining careers.
3. WHAT MAKES THIS SCHOLARSHIP SPECIAL TO YOU?
It’s about creating access and opportunity. Earning a GED is often the first step toward a better future, and I’m proud to support students who are taking that step with courage and commitment. This scholarship is a way to say, “We see you, and we believe in you.”
4. HOW DO YOU HOPE YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS IMPACT CCM STUDENTS?
I hope my support gives students the confidence to pursue their goals and the resources to stay on track. Whether they’re entering the workforce, pursuing a trade, or continuing their education.
SUCCESS STUDENT
MARIA ADAMES – BUILDING A FUTURE WITH PURPOSE
For Maria Adames, choosing CCM was an easy decision. Close to home, with strong academic programs and a partnership with Rutgers University, CCM offers her the flexibility to transfer credits while keeping future study options open. Currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration , Maria is laying a foundation for both academic and professional success.
As the recipient of the CCM Adjunct Faculty Scholarship , Maria has been able to ease the financial burden of transportation expenses, especially since she does not currently have a car. “It takes away a lot of stress and allows me to focus more on my studies,” she shares with gratitude.
What makes CCM special? The professors. “They’re incredibly supportive and motivating. When I struggle, they take the time to help me really understand the material, which makes a huge difference.”
Beyond academics, Maria works with Community Options at the Denville Daily Plan It program as a Senior Direct Support Professional and Assistant Manager, supporting individuals with disabilities.
Looking ahead - Maria hopes to study architecture, grow her online art and craft business, and one day launch an architectural firm that blends creativity with compassion—designing spaces where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued, for people with all types of disabilities.
Maria Adames
DESIGNING A FUTURE AT CCM WITH DANIELLA AGHAHOWA
Thanks to the support of the Dr. Edward J. Yaw Scholarship , Daniella Aghahowa is pursuing her dream of studying Fashion Design at CCM. A resident of West Orange, Daniella chose CCM even though it is out of county because it was the closest community college in New Jersey to offer the program she was passionate about. “CCM gives me the chance to explore my interests at my own pace while keeping higher education affordable,” she says.
What Daniella values most about CCM is the supportive environment. From helpful staff to responsive professors, she found the encouragement she needs to succeed. “I was surprised by how easy it was to get accommodations here compared to high school,” she says. She also appreciates the calm, welcoming campus. It’s the ideal setting to transition into adulthood while staying close to home.
Daniella plans to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts, combining fashion design with visual arts to build a career rooted in creativity, authenticity, and meaningful impact.
THEIR MARK ALUMNI MAKING
EMMA ENRIGHT: FROM CCM TO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Emma Enright ’17, first chose CCM for its strong reputation and to take part in the Challenger Program to earn college credit while still in high school.
At CCM, Emma earned an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, graduating magna cum laude, and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. “CCM gave me the best educational experience I’ve ever had,” she reflects. “It solidified that the criminal justice and legal field is where I want to work and provided the foundation for my future studies and career.”
Emma went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Justice Studies with a minor in Arabic from Montclair State University in 2019, became a certified paralegal through Rutgers University in 2020, and earned a JD from Rutgers Law School in 2024. After working as a paralegal at Klingeman Cerimele Attorneys, she discovered a passion for defense work and is now an associate attorney, focusing on criminal defense and complex civil litigation.
CCM TO THE BIG LEAGUES: DAN PURNER’S PATHWAY
For Dan Purner ’04, CCM offered the perfect combination of affordability and opportunity. The chance Landscape Design while competing in soccer made CCM the right fit.
During his time at CCM, Dan distinguished himself both academically and athletically. He was named 1st Team All Region XIX in soccer, earned NJCAA Distinguished Academic All-American honors in both soccer and tennis, and was recognized as New Jersey’s Outstanding Male Student Athlete of the Year for junior colleges. His achievements were strengthened by the support of CCM Athletic Director Sullivan and Coaches Stephens and Hoffman, who challenged him to excel on the field, as well as Professors Tolley and Traynor of the Landscape and Horticultural Technology Department, who guided his academic and professional growth.
Emma credits CCM’s criminal justice faculty, particularly Bill Solomons and retired Professor Hurd, for their mentorship. “CCM laid the groundwork for everything I’ve achieved since,” she says.
After CCM, Dan transferred to Rutgers University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Plant Science. Today, he has combined his passion for athletics and landscape management as the Head Groundskeeper for the Somerset Patriots, the AA affiliate of the New York Yankees.
Dan stays connected with CCM by attending horticulture seminars and offering opportunities to CCM graduates and interns. Reflecting on his experience, he credits CCM for preparing him to succeed at Rutgers and beyond, noting he felt more ready than many traditional four-year students.
Daniella Aghahowa
Emma Enright
Dan Purner
Stronger Together: Community IMPACT
CCM PARTNERS WITH IMPACT100 GARDEN STATE AND TABLE TO TABLE TO FIGHT FOOD INSECURITY
CCM was proud to collaborate with local organizations, Impact100 Garden State and Table to Table, in a meaningful initiative to combat food insecurity across New Jersey. In our brand-new, state-of-the-art baking kitchen in the soon-to-open Center for Entrepreneurship and Culinary Science, volunteers prepared over 300 fresh lunches that were distributed to eight nonprofit organizations serving those in need throughout the region.
As a former Impact100 Garden State grant recipient, CCM was especially honored to host the event. The collaboration not only showcased the college’s expanding facilities and community-focused mission, but demonstrated the powerful impact of partnerships, service learning, and shared values among organizations committed to making a difference.
EVENTS FOUNDATION
2025 GRADS WEAR TEAL AND GOLD WITH PRIDE
CCM FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP SOCIETY DONOR-STUDENT RECEPTION
On March 31, 2025, CCM Foundation scholarship donors and student recipients gathered for a special dinner celebrating the generosity of the donors and highlighting the real impact of their support. The CCM Foundation Scholarship Society provides ongoing support, networking opportunities, campus activities, and recognition for students who have received a CCM Foundation scholarship. These scholarships are
CCM held its 56th Commencement at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown on Thursday, May 22, celebrating the Class of 2025. This year’s graduating class included nearly 1,000 students, with close to 400 participating in the ceremony, the largest number ever to walk at commencement. Graduates received associate degrees and certificates of achievement, with CCM Foundation Scholarship Society members proudly wearing teal and gold cords to mark their accomplishments. In addition, all students were welcomed into the CCM Alumni Association with a special zipper pull. Each year, the CCM Foundation awards approximately $300,000 in scholarships to nearly 300 students, thanks to the generosity of donors who help make our students’ dreams a reality.
Kelly L. Meola and Landon Tanyeri ’25
ONE COLLEGE, ONE COMMUNITY, ONE SPECIAL NIGHT
On May 1, the CCM Foundation welcomed community leaders, alumni, sponsors, and friends to its Annual Gala at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park. The event celebrated the power of community and raised critical support for CCM students, programs, and initiatives shaping the future of education in Morris County.
The Foundation also honored distinguished individuals and organizations whose contributions have made a profound and lasting impact on CCM:
• Philanthropy Award – Delta Dental of New Jersey for their transformative $100,000 SMILE grant supporting CCM’s new Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene programs.
• Community Partners Award – Senators Anthony M. Bucco, Steve V. Oroho, Joseph Pennacchio, and Paul A. Sarlo for their instrumental support in securing funding for CCM’s new Center for Health Professions.
• Dr. Edward J. Yaw Leadership Award – Dr. Aaron R. Fichtner, President of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges, for his ongoing advocacy and leadership in advancing the mission of New Jersey’s community colleges.
Attendees were also moved by a powerful testimonial from CCM Student Government Association President, Landon Tanyeri ’25, who shared how the college shaped his dreams of a career in public service.
The CCM Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed, as support helps fund scholarships, drives groundbreaking initiatives, and makes education more accessible and impactful for all.
The 2025 CCM Foundation President’s Golf Classic, held on October 6 at Spring Brook Country Club, brought together an enthusiastic crowd for a day of great golf and even greater purpose. With perfect weather and a record number of golfers, the event was a resounding success. This year’s outing stood out for the meaningful involvement of CCM students. Members of the Golf Team teed off for players on a challenging hole, a student photographer documented the day’s highlights, and engineering students designed and 3D-printed custom golf tools for participants. The event raised twice as much as last year, thanks to the generous support of both returning and new sponsors. Proceeds benefit CCM Athletics and Foundation initiatives, providing scholarships, enhancing campus resources, and helping students reach their goals.
Kelly L. Meola; Senator Joseph Pennacchio; Senator Anthony M. Bucco; Senator Steve V. Oroho; and Dr. Anthony J. Iacono
The team from Crum & Forster ready to hit the greens.
CCM Trustee Jim Loveys tees off to start the day.
NEW FACES WELCOMING
COUNTY COLLEGE OF MORRIS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Paul R. Licitra, Chair
Lauren C. Inganamort, Vice Chair
Donna T. Pepe, Treasurer
George J. Milonas ’98, Secretary
Laura M. Gabrielsen
Dr. Nancy H. Gartenberg
Dr. Barbara L. Hadzima
Justin R. Lash
James B. Loveys
Hector H. Mislavsky
Devanshu L. Modi, Esq.
Landon Tanyeri ’25, Alumni Trustee
Sandra Geiger, Trustee Emerita
W. Thomas Margetts, Trustee
Emeritus
Thomas A. Pepe, Trustee Emeritus
Dr. Joseph S. Weisberg, Trustee Emeritus
MEET THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF OUR FOUNDATION BOARD
PATRICK
MIGLIACCIO is Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG), the largest subsidiary of New Jersey Resources. He has been with New Jersey Resources since 2009, serving in various leadership roles including Controller, Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer. Under his leadership, NJNG serves more than 580,000 customers across the state, including in Morris County, with safe, reliable, cost-effective natural gas service. Pat also serves as State Treasurer of Junior Achievement of New Jersey. He attended CCM, has an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and is a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program. NJNG has been a generous champion of CCM, and we are excited to welcome Pat back as we look forward to the next chapter.
BOB FLYNN is Area Manager, Regional External Affairs at FirstEnergy Corporation/JCP&L and covers Morris, Passaic, Essex, Somerset, and Union counties. He brings an impressive background in public administration prior to joining JCP&L where he worked for Governor Chris Christie as his Director of Advance and for U.S. House of Representatives Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen. Bob is involved with other local area non-profit organizations like Table of Hope, Homeless Solutions, Inc., Interfaith Food Pantry Network, and Greater Middlesex & Morris Habitat for Humanity. In a recent visit to the CCM campus, Bob presented a FirstEnergy Foundation grant for $20,000 in support of CCM programs. The CCM Foundation looks forward to continuing our work together.
COUNTY COLLEGE OF MORRIS ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, President
Karen VanDerhoof, CPA, Executive Vice President of Business and Finance
Patrick J. Enright, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, Workforce Development and Student Success
Melissa Albright, Vice President of Marketing, Public Relations and Enrollment Management
Vivyen Ray, SHRM-SCP, Vice President of Human Resources and Labor Relations
Kelly Fitzpatrick, Associate Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness
Julian Gomez, Executive Director of Educational Opportunity Programs
Kelly L. Meola, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
COUNTY COLLEGE OF MORRIS FOUNDATION
Board of Directors
William K. McElroy ’83, Chair
John P. Beyel, Esq., Vice Chair
Edward F. Nelson ’72, Treasurer
M.J Sully, Esq., Secretary
Joseph G. Bilotti ’88, Faculty Representative
Joseph D’Auria
Carol Fitzpatrick ’86
Robert Flynn
Patrick Migliaccio
Everton Scott
Eric Seguin
Patrick Swaszek ’05
Wilson Vasquez
Greg Volz ’94
Gil Zweig
Eileen Paragano ’91, Emerita
Staff
Kelly L. Meola, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
