Issuu

invention W H AT’S I N S I DE FA L L 2 026

1 > Message from the President

GRADUATE PROFILES 2

2 > Right Where She Belongs: Rebecca Mentor, BSN ’25 4 > Rolling for Degrees: Robert Hightower, M.S. ’26 and Andora Hightower, MPSL ’25, B.A. ’11 7 > Ready for What’s Next: Raheem Mayes, B.S. ’26, A.S. ’24 8 > The Confidence to Lead: Christine Albano, DBA ’25 10 > Leading by Listening: Philip Rasaw, B.A. ’26 12 > Chipping Away at Her Degree: MaryAnn Fernandes, MSN ’26, BSN ’14 18 > Built for Resilience: David W. Garwood, DBA ’26, M.S. ’23, B.S. ’22, AAS ’13 20 > Directing Her Future: Patricia Childress, B.A. ’26 22 > Closing the Gap: Hector Nickolas Martinez, B.S. ’26 24 > A Lesson in Perspective: Mitchell Horn, DBA ’26

COMMENCEMENT PHOTO SPREAD

14 > Scenes from Commencement

GRADS BY THE NUMBERS 7

16 > Grads by the Numbers UNIVERSITY NEWS

26 > University reports 11% increase in total degrees as enrollment rises > Bradshaw etchings get new exhibit space 27 > Harmon appointed new provost > New 30-credit graduate degrees to expand access and affordability 8

FOUNDATION NEWS

28 > TESU Foundation appoints new board members MEET A TESU GENIUS

Inside Back Cover > Karen Schober, DBA ’26, MBA ’23, B.A. ’15

"Invention" is published biannually and is produced by the Office of Communications at Thomas Edison State University.

Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. PRESIDENT

Sara Stricker MANAGING EDITOR

Victoria Monaghan EDITOR

Erin Grugan GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Pete Croatto Meg Frantz Ayleen Gontz Beth Fand Incollingo Sara Stricker WRITERS

Kathleen Brommer Jaime R. Escarpeta Erin Grugan Jackie Morlock-Miller Michael Paras PHOTOGRAPHY

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M E S S AGE

F ROM

T H E

PR E SI DE N T

Dear Alumni, Students and Friends, This year’s Commencement ceremony is marked by more than 2,000 students who will step forward from Thomas Edison State University to become agents of change in the world. Our graduates are fueled by their resilience, their passion and their drive. This occasion characterizes the culmination of their journeys as they and their loved ones gather to celebrate this transformative milestone. I am proud to feature just some of those remarkable stories in this edition of “Invention.” You will meet learners fueled by TESU’s unique academic model, workforce partnerships and living curriculum, driven forward by resourcefulness and scholarship and bolstered by committed partners, children, friends and a devoted University community. The University is dedicated to serving these adult learners and meeting present and future workforce needs — it is endlessly gratifying to underpin these voyages.

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Hector Martinez earned his B.S. in Healthcare Management after 25 years of longing for a degree. Mitchell Horn used his National Guard tuition benefit to obtain his DBA. Rebecca Mentor found her passion in psychiatric mental healthcare, and after earning her BSN is enrolled in our Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Program. These graduates and more are just a few of the noteworthy stories that find their home at TESU. They will become leaders who make a difference, and the University is thrilled to continue to innovate and sustain the unwavering commitment of its students. I hope you enjoy this issue of “Invention.”

Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. President

Rebecca Mentor, BSN ’25 By combining her passion for psychology with a career in nursing, Rebecca Mentor found her calling in psychiatric mental health. Her BSN from TESU is preparing her to make an even greater impact. Rebecca Mentor was always interested in psychology, but her mother thought she was perfectly suited to become a nurse. Today, Mentor is blending the two as a psychiatric mental health registered nurse (PMH-RN), and last winter she deepened her commitment to her field by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing Professions at Thomas Edison State University. “I recognized that, to improve patient outcomes, I would need to obtain an advanced degree,” said Mentor, who initially earned an associate degree in science from Union County College and a diploma as a registered nurse from Trinitas School of Nursing in Elizabeth, N.J. Mentor works at Overlook Medical Center, in Summit, N.J., and at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, where she cares for patients who are facing behavioral health issues and/or addiction. In those roles, she admits patients, implements treatment plans, performs daily assessments and administers medications.

A resident of Elizabeth, N.J., Mentor pursued her BSN with encouragement from her colleagues and supervisors, and the experience has increased her interest in implementing quality improvement efforts. By applying her heightened critical thinking skills and understanding of evidence-based care and best practices, she has found new ways to improve nursing workflow, communication, teamwork and collaboration. For example, Mentor

Mentor, right, alongside friend Tamia Cook at a Jan. 2020 nurse pinning ceremony at Trinitas School of Nursing.

helped one of her units to streamline its admission process by identifying redundancies in documentation and maximizing the advantages of the Epic charting system. “Having my BSN has given me the confidence to lean into natural leadership abilities that I possessed all along but were kept buried due to the feeling of imposter syndrome,” she said. “I feel like I belong in spaces that I never thought I could occupy, and I attribute that to TESU for broadening not only my clinical knowledge and skills, but also my understanding of the political and business sides of healthcare.” Now, Mentor is preparing to pursue an additional course of study at TESU — the Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Program — so she can make an even bigger difference for patients. “I noticed that there is still a stigma surrounding mental health despite the strides we have made, and unfortunately, stigma plays a common role in poor medication compliance rates, high 30-day readmission rates and lack of available providers for psychiatric mental health,” she said. “Completing the program will empower me with the skills I need to support patients who have severe mental illness by addressing these significant concerns.” Mentor had originally planned to become a clinical psychologist after she graduated from Montclair State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2008, but she never pursued a graduate degree, instead working at a group home for people with developmental disabilities and in retail

“I HOLD TESU IN SUCH HIGH REGARD AS A PREMIER ADULT HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTION. I ENCOURAGE ANYONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO FURTHER THEIR EDUCATION TO LOOK INTO WHAT TESU HAS TO OFFER.” REBECCA MENTOR, BSN ’25

sales. Eventually, nursing called to her. “I have always been a nurturing person, and I find great joy in taking care of people,” she said. “I believe my mother really recognized that in me before I did and thought nursing would be a great career for me. When I finally realized that myself, it became all I thought about.” In her initial nursing program, Mentor completed rotations in several settings. “It wasn’t until my last semester, when I entered my psychiatric rotation, that everything clicked,” she said. “I remember the moment I made my decision that this was where I was going to make the most impact. Two things resonated with me in that moment. One was from scripture, Proverbs 16:9 NLT: ‘We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.’ The other was the simple maxim that ‘Mom knows best.’” While Mentor loves being a PMH-RN, she hopes to become a PMH nurse practitioner after finishing her next course of study and “would be thrilled,” she said, “if I could begin my career at my current institutions.” Mentor initially enrolled at TESU because it fit her lifestyle as a working nurse and the mother of a thenpreteenager who was very involved with sports. “I needed a program that was flexible, affordable, online and high-quality,” she said. “What was also amazing was that the school was part of the U.S.

Department of Labor’s Expanding Mental Health Nursing in New Jersey Grant Program that essentially paid my tuition and book expenses.” Mentor chose TESU’s RN to BSN program, a self-paced set of courses designed to enable registered nurses to earn their BSNs in as little as 18 months, and in December 2025 earned the School’s Arnold Fletcher Award for academic excellence. She felt both challenged and supported at the university, especially by its accessible mentors, who provided timely and constructive feedback. Mentor is also grateful to Nursing Program Advisor Maggie Ciocco, who helped her graduate on time even after she accidentally obtained materials for one course too late. Ciocco quickly came up with an alternate strategy, registering Mentor instead for a general education course that relied on a no-cost textbook, which still filled a requirement she needed to graduate. “I hold TESU in such high regard as a premier adult higher learning institution,” Mentor said. “I encourage anyone who would like to further their education to look into what TESU has to offer.” To learn more about our RN to BSN program, visit tesu.edu/rn-bsn-msn. (By Beth Fand Incollingo / For TESU)

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How a Dungeons and Dragons-inspired home became the starting point for one couple’s shared TESU adventure Robert Hightower, M.S. ’26 and Andora Hightower, MPSL ’25 , B.A. ’11 The house, more of a castle really, is an ode to Dungeons and Dragons, the classic fantasy tabletop role-playing game. It is an abode of ornate sconces and high, noble chairs. Wait, are those wooden doors with gilded handles the size of rolling pins outside? And golden lion door knockers? And is that an Orc and Red Dragon on display inside? Yes, on all counts. This is the house that TESU built.

Robert Hightower’s time as a student

inspired him to complete his family’s West Deptford, N.J., house. But the project, which began in 2015, convinced Robert and his wife, Andora, to start their academic adventure at TESU.

received their master’s degrees from TESU: Robert in information technology with a specialty in data analytics, Andora in public service leadership with a focus on public health and policy.

“We were both pushed to the limit and expanded our reach in terms of grit and determination,” Andora said. “We felt that if we could accomplish something like a complete rebranding of a home together, we can also accomplish a degree together.”

The main motivations, says Andora, were “the changing landscape of each employment sector and demand for specialization and qualifications along with experience.”

The couple, married since 2016, both

For the Hightowers, their previous experiences made them realize the importance of compatibility in everything.

“Far too often in life, people drift apart from each other,” Robert said. “While relationships start off together at the same spot, they take different paths and [couples] find themselves drifting apart more and more over time. We were determined not to have that happen in our relationship and found this compatibility to be integral to our relationship. It guided us to always walk down the same path together, hand in hand.” Robert is the director of information technology and chief information officer at the National Center for Advocacy & Recovery for Behavioral Health in Robbinsville, N.J. Andora was an educator at the Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine. The couple also runs Camelot Solutions, a computer hardware and software company Robert started in the mid-1990s. Choosing TESU was no roll of the D20 die. Andora earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies here in 2011 while raising a family. Her success convinced Robert,

who received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University’s College of Engineering, that TESU was the best option. They started in 2021, fittingly together, in a fundraising class taught by Matt Hugg. It was great, a sign of things to come. “The overall experience was excellent,” Andora said. “Everyone was helpful and attentive. The online discussions helped keep the connection aspect alive.” The connection, she added, was “imperative” to their education at TESU. When all else failed, the Hightowers had each other to provide empathy and support. “We would always prop each other up and measure the successes,” Andora said. “Sometimes even taking it down to the assignment level.” Going back to school folded nicely into their philosophy for a strong marriage. “When two people experience

everything together, they become more harmonious,” Robert said. “Their life experiences intertwine, shared history continues to grow and this increases their passion for each other. Each day that goes by strengthens that bond. The relationship itself becomes an ongoing adventure. Each new experience of enjoyment, sight, flavor or even difficult challenge that life often brings is sweeter or easier to overcome when viewed through a shared lens.” All that work was worth it. For Andora, the overhead view of the public sector offered insight into her day-to-day work. Robert’s time at TESU widened his perspective, allowing him to become a better leader. “We became more marketable as an asset to any organization,” Andora added. A Dungeons and Dragons-inspired house led to the Hightowers’ educational

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Below are before and after photos of the Hightowers’ Dungeons and Dragons-inspired home and garage.

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journey. That begs the question: How was their TESU experience like a game of D&D? The game, Robert says, relies on teamwork, which was crucial to completing their degrees. “We had determined that certain areas of the house needed to be complete before pursuing a degree,” Andora said. “This helped in terms of prioritizing projects and timelines. We met these challenges by being incredibly flexible and practicing constant effective communication.”

exploring caves, they were digging into unfamiliar coursework. But the end was more meaningful. “The ability to travel this journey together, instead of alone, allowed us to inspire and feed off each other’s enthusiasm of completing the TESU education,”

“THE ABILITY TO TRAVEL THIS JOURNEY TOGETHER, INSTEAD OF ALONE, ALLOWED US TO INSPIRE AND FEED OFF EACH OTHER’S ENTHUSIASM OF COMPLETING THE TESU EDUCATION.” ROBERT HIGHTOWER, M.S. ’26

There was also the usual flurry of life: homework, chores and managing the family. “Supporting each other allowed us to defeat the homework monsters, and finally ‘level up’ each time we completed another class toward our degree,” Robert said.

he said. “Similar to the end of an exciting Dungeons and Dragons campaign, it creates a living storybook of shared memories together.”

Playing Dungeons and Dragons together, he adds, has contributed to the couple thinking like teammates. That attitude “spilled over into helping each other achieve our degrees like a quest,” Robert explained. Instead of

For more information and to start your own education campaign, visit tesu.edu/admission-counselors to schedule an admissions consultation today. (By Pete Croatto / For TESU)

Ready for What’s Next: Raheem Mayes, B.S. ’26, A.S. ’24 As artificial intelligence reshapes the technology landscape, Raheem Mayes is building the knowledge and skills to evolve with it. Several years ago, Raheem Mayes found himself on the threshold of a technological shift. His new position in information technology at a state police agency gave him a front-row seat as large language models (LLMs) rapidly expanded AI’s use in public-sector organizations. “After working in the field, seeing how the technology was rapidly evolving with the invention of AI and LLMs, I found that I was interested in how all these components came together to form useful systems,” he said. That interest wasn’t new. “When I was younger, my mother would always buy me these old-school toys called K’NEX. That was my first introduction to robotics,” he noted. Mayes’ focus on building systems, coupled with a need to keep abreast of changes in the field, led him to TESU’s Information Technology program in the School of Science and Technology. The 120-credit online Bachelor of Science degree is specifically designed for individuals currently working in the IT industry. Its structure allows students to use current professional certifications to satisfy some or all of the degree’s elective requirements. Mayes' decision to attend TESU centered around the fully online courses. “I did a stint of my college career attending classes in the traditional sense, and it was difficult working full time and trying to juggle going to school in person,” he said. “I often ran into issues such as certain classes only being offered during the day, which conflicted with my work schedule.” Mayes was working as an electrical mechanic at the New Jersey Department of Transportation when he enrolled in TESU's 60-credit online associate degree program in information technology in Fall 2022. He transitioned to an information technology specialist at the New Jersey State Police before graduating, where he focused on hardware and software support. “I had more than half the credits needed for a bachelor’s, so I kept going,” he said. In July 2026, Mayes graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. He currently works as an

Mayes says his overall experience with TESU was positive. He found many courses to be highly relevant to his interests and job duties. “When you work in IT, you find out it’s best to become a specialist in one or two technologies,” he said. “It was through taking these courses that I figured out what I was particularly interested in and what I wasn’t.”

Raheem Mayes, B.S. ’26, A.S. ’24

Administrative Analyst 3, Information Systems, for a state police agency. His daily tasks include onboarding and offboarding users and setting up and securing devices such as cell phones and laptops. In this account management position, he implements solutions for technologies including Active Directory, Microsoft 365 and Zscaler. “My degree will and has opened up numerous job opportunities that I didn’t have access to in the past due to a lot of the positions, especially in IT, requiring you to have a degree,” he said. “My coursework played a pivotal role in me knowing how all these technologies work on a core level.” According to Dr. Henry Collier, dean of the TESU School of Science and Technology, offering courses that rotate and evolve to reflect the real-world environment in which students will find employment is critical. “The School of Science and Technology strives to ensure that our curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards by implementing a continuous curriculum assessment program where we engage with industry experts through our Industrial Advisory and Continuous Improvement Committees on an ongoing basis,” said Collier. “The School embraces technology changes like artificial intelligence that directly impact today’s workforce, ensuring our students develop the skills needed to be successful in the fast-paced environment we all live in.” In addition to associate and bachelor’s degrees in information technology, the School of Science and Technology also offers a 36–39 credit master’s degree.

Mayes has several suggestions for incoming students. First, get connected within the online community. “Online exchanges are an important component in a lot of classes, as it helps to see others’ viewpoints in the world.” Second, reach out. “Student support staff, deans’ office staff, and TESU mentors are all very helpful and are pretty prompt in responding and correcting any issues that arise.” And finally, for incoming students taking online courses for the first time, Mayes offers this advice: “When pursuing your degree online, it can be overwhelming trying to gauge the workload you can take on while trying to factor in things like family and work. I took it slow at first and got familiar with the online environment and assignment requirements. I found being organized and having a set routine to be a big factor in overcoming this challenge.” Mayes found support throughout his college experience from a close group of family and friends. He stresses that finding one’s own balance between studying and life is also important. “I’m a lifelong learner, so I like playing around with things in my free time — like creating networks and making changes to see what breaks,” he said. “I also like to stay active. My new current hobby is running. Nothing beats putting on a pair of headphones, zoning out to some music and going on an hour-long run.” Looking ahead, Mayes feels prepared for the next technological advancement. “What excites me most about the future of technology is how it will continue to shape everyday life — from how we work to everyday tasks like grocery shopping.” For more information about the School of Science and Technology, visit tesu.edu/technology.

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Christine Albano, DBA ’25 After three decades in corporate leadership, Christine Albano’s Thomas Edison State University doctorate gave her the confidence to launch her own consulting firm — and help small businesses thrive. When Dr. Christine Albano mentions she has a doctorate, ears perk up. People pay closer attention to what she says. Conversation comes easier. Albano does not lean on the title. She lets decades of high-level corporate experience take the lead with prospective clients. Her TESU doctorate, which she received last December, is the coda to a 30-year professional career — and the start of an exciting new chapter. Albano believes her time at TESU gave her the confidence to found Libero Insights, her business consultancy firm based in Princeton, N.J. In volleyball, the “libero” is a player position strategically used for defense to create strong offense. It is an apt term for what Albano does now — setting up her clients for success and repairing vulnerable spots. It’s also a nod to her past. Albano played volleyball at Rider University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting followed by an MBA. Originally, she pursued a Doctor of Business

(Top) Christine Albano receives her doctoral hood at TESU’s 2026 Commencement ceremony. (Right) Albano poses with her DBA degree. (Left) Albano plays volleyball.

(Top) Christine Albano with her family and (below) with her husband.

Administration because she was unhappy in corporate America. A DBA, she felt, would allow her to grow in a more personal way. At TESU, Albano studied organizational leadership. Her field study was on how entrepreneurs’ behaviors affected operating systems. It was a perfect direction since she had worked for many different organizations and experienced different cultures and different leadership styles. In the middle of pursuing her degree, Albano decided to shift her focus. She quit her job and started consulting. The move brought clarity: she no longer wanted to be an employee. It was time to share her experiences in a different way. Being at TESU “made me realize how passionate I am about small businesses being successful and helping them find balance in the rich cultures that every small company has,” said Albano. “They can maintain that culture successfully but also strengthen their business structure in a smart way for growth. It gave me time to reflect on those experiences and really draw out the valuable points I could lean into from a research aspect in order to bring that forward to future clients.” The revelation did not occur right away. The first couple of classes, Albano admits, were challenging as she relearned how to be a student. “I began to realize the fulfilling nature of learning and being able to relate to the material and stretch myself in a different way, stretch the academic skillsets and refine my communication skills and my research skills to bring my experiences forward,” she said. As time went on, Albano found TESU to be more of a journey instead of a job. The journey gave her self-confidence. TESU was a community. Mentors were cheerleaders who wanted to share their knowledge and expand their students’ horizons. Albano found being in a cohort essential to completing her degree. Though friends and family cheered her on, nothing topped the support of her

peers. “Only those students know what you’re going through,” Albano observed. Albano found inspiration among her classmates. “For me, it was given that I came out of high school and go on to college,” Albano said. “Thomas Edison serves a different community, and I met so many resilient individuals that worked so hard to get their undergraduate degree and then their graduate degree and didn’t stop and continued on through their doctorate.” Dr. Michael Williams, dean of TESU’s School of Business and Management, says a professional having a doctorate is a distinctive characteristic. There is a feeling that that person knows things and has skillsets others lack. He calls Albano the exemplar of the scholar-professional: articulate, thoughtful and an adept researcher. “Christine is a natural leader,” Williams noted. “She’s engaging. She helps others and she’s compelling in her speaking, behavior and writing. As a fully seasoned executive, it really shows.” Albano once worked for business giants like Nabisco and American Standard. Today, her clients are smaller, and the work is far more meaningful. “What I’m still doing from an actual hands-on operational standpoint is that I’m working with small businesses between $1 million and $50 million in revenue with between one and 50 employees,” Albano said. “I am able to harness the experiences, really listen well, to what they’re communicating, and help them articulate and map out their

goals and then map out a path forward with them.” Even better: it’s fun. Albano is writing operational excellence coursework for a doctorate program in community healthcare, leaning into her longtime dream of being a professor. Albano is not big on the academic alphabet soup after her name. She notices the fuss others have over her DBA, but gets no rush from it (she likes to say the most important letters after her name are “M-O-M.”) The “Dr.” before her name has made a giant difference. She does not have to boast about what she has accomplished in the classroom. Albano is too busy enjoying what she is doing now. That is what shows. To learn more about the DBA program, visit tesu.edu/dba. (By Pete Croatto / For TESU)

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Leading by Listening Philip Rasaw, B.A. ’26 After three decades of serving people with mental health and developmental disabilities, Philip Rasaw earned his bachelor’s degree to strengthen his leadership and help build healthier workplaces. In his career working at residential facilities for people with mental health issues and developmental disabilities, Philip Rasaw has learned an important lesson: listening more than talking can turn potentially violent outbursts into calm conversations. “Patients have come there for help, not to fight, and they really don’t want to hurt you or anybody else,” said Rasaw, who recently started a role as a supervisor at a residential facility for people with developmental disabilities in Burlington County, N.J., run by Oaks Integrated Care. “They often just need somebody to hear them, and that’s what we need to do as humans — listen to each other more thoroughly.” After developing those kinds of insights across three decades in his field, Rasaw rounded out his knowledge by earning a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Health Management at Thomas Edison State University. His daughter, TESU graduate Ashlee Caldwell, DBA ’24, BSBA ’19, convinced him to start the program when he was between work assignments so he could move beyond his associate degree in healthcare administration and management, which he earned from the University of Phoenix in 2012.

“Ashlee said, ‘Hey, you can just go ahead and knock this out. It will take a year and you’ll be done,’” Rasaw recalled. Knowing when to listen meant he would heed her advice. Caldwell is an assistant business administrator for the Camden City

School District. Rasaw, who lives in Westampton, N.J., started his career at North Princeton Development Center in Skillman, N.J., because it offered opportunities for advancement. He became a supervisor there after serving as a direct-care staff member charged with ensuring that patients with developmental disabilities got up and dressed in the morning, ate and attended their programs. Rasaw moved to the Trenton Psychiatric Hospital in 1998, where he worked in direct care before being selected to serve in the training department. In that role, Rasaw taught staff members CPR, defibrillator use and self-protection in case of physical altercations. “Another part of my job was finding patients whose behavior was challenging and creating a positive relationship with them,” he said. “That way, if they went into crisis, they could come to me and sit down and talk about it. A lot of times, that really turned things around.” Rasaw was working part time in an auxiliary role at Trenton Psychiatric Hospital when he started his bachelor’s program at TESU. Now, he’s excited to

Rasaw with his granddaughter Tamia Mackins.

Rasaw (middle) with his wife Lisa, daughter Ashlee Caldwell, son Kevin Rasaw and granddaughter Tamia Mackins.

bring his enhanced expertise to his new job at Oaks Integrated.

the cafeteria workers all the way up to the CEO.”

In addition to delving into topics including the American healthcare system, business law and ethics at TESU, Rasaw completed a capstone project focused on how to reduce burnout among staff members at residential facilities. His recommendations included teaching better communication, emphasizing the availability of confidential workplace assistance

Rasaw had intended to move forward with a bachelor’s program immediately after finishing his associate degree, he said, but life got in the way. At the time, one of his sons was beginning to look at colleges, so Rasaw put his own plans on hold to help with that process. He started at TESU in January 2025 at the urging of his daughter and several

“MY ADVICE IS TO GO FOR IT. ONCE YOU ENROLL, YOU’RE ALREADY COMMITTED, AND YOU MIGHT AS WELL FINISH THE JOB. THAT’S WHAT I WOULD TELL MY YOUNGER SELF: JUST GO FOR IT, BECAUSE YOU CAN DO IT.” PHILIP RASAW, B.A. ’26

programs, interacting amicably with unions and instructing supervisors to be slow to take punitive actions against employees. “To work in these positions, staff members need to have empathy for the mentally ill, but many of them work a lot of overtime, and without getting the proper rest, they’re not themselves,” he said. “That’s why it’s especially important for teams at these facilities to communicate openly and honestly, build healthy, supportive relationships and ensure that everyone is respected, from

of his colleagues. He was pleased to find that the University accepted not only the credits from his associate degree, but also about 30 additional credits toward an early childhood education degree that he had earned remotely from Central State University, a Historically Black College in Ohio, through a union-related education funding benefit. With just over 30 credits left to earn, Rasaw chose TESU’s liberal arts program rather than its healthcare administration major because he wanted a well-rounded education without needing a significant

math component. His experience at TESU convinced him that it’s “one of the top schools, if not just in New Jersey, then on the East Coast — just an outstanding school in adult learning.” Among the reasons Rasaw gives TESU “a five-star review” are its advisors, who were helpful and easy to speak with; its mentors, who were professional and responsive; and his fellow students, with whom he had friendly and constructive conversations. A father of three who enjoys watching sports and riding bicycles, Rasaw received support from his entire family as he made his way through his classes, including his mother, his wife, Lisa, and daughter. Caldwell helped him choose his program and was always available to answer his questions. As he looks back on the experience, Rasaw hopes that other adults who dream of getting their degrees will follow his lead. “My advice is to go for it,” he said. “Once you enroll, you’re already committed, and you might as well finish the job. That’s what I would tell my younger self: Just go for it, because you can do it.” For more information on a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies, visit tesu.edu/bals. (By Beth Fand Incollingo / For TESU)

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MaryAnn Fernandes, MSN ’26, BSN ’14 After two decades of caring for mothers and newborns, MaryAnn Fernandes’ commitment to lifelong learning is opening the door to her next chapter as a nurse educator. When MaryAnn Fernandes began her nursing education, she was encouraged to always keep learning, “chipping away” at her academic journey, even if she needed to take breaks. She took that advice to heart. Since earning her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, Fernandes has spent two decades providing maternal and newborn care at Hackensack Meridian Health Ocean University Medical (OUMC) Center in Brick, N.J, and as a childbirth educator at Shore Care in Neptune City. But she has also continued to study, enrolling at Thomas Edison State University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2014 and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a nurse educator concentration earlier this year. “Like many people, I faced personal and professional challenges along the way that required me to step back at times,” said Fernandes, who completed each of her degrees with a 4.0 grade point average. “However, I always returned with a renewed sense of purpose.” Fernandes started studying nursing after high school but decided instead to go into computer programming. Later, after staying home for a while to raise her own children, she again felt a strong desire to pursue nursing. “I wanted to do something both meaningful and purposeful and that allowed me to care for people in a real, hands-on way,” she said. “In labor and delivery, you’re part of a life-changing experience, and that never loses its meaning.” At Ocean University Medical Center, Fernandes monitors patients for complications, provides emergency care and supports women, babies and their families through one of life’s most meaningful and emotional transitions. Fernandes has also spent years teaching patients and family members at Shore Care while taking on informal teaching roles at Ocean University Medical Center, from working with new nurses and precepting to supporting students during clinical rotations. Now that she has earned her MSN, her goal is to move into formal adjunct or clinical instructor roles, starting with part-time teaching assignments

MaryAnn Fernandes at work, at a celebration of her degree her colleagues threw and receiving a hospital scholarship alongside Marie Foley Danecker, vice president and chief nursing officer of OUMC.

while still working clinically and later transitioning more fully into education.

TESU’s flexibility made that juggling act easier.

“After more than 22 years at the bedside,” she said, “I’m excited about the opportunity to transition into educating both nursing students and newer nurses as they begin to find their own paths in this profession.”

“The structure gave me the flexibility to work at my own pace while still feeling challenged,” she said. “The program was designed with working professionals in mind, which made it manageable and realistic to complete.”

Fernandes envisions that evolution as a way to extend her career. “Moving into a less physically demanding role will allow me to continue working longer while still having a positive impact on nursing,” she said. “In addition, the flexibility in scheduling, particularly around hours, holidays and weekends, would be a welcome change after many years in an acute-care setting.” Although she hasn’t made that change yet, Fernandes is already finding that her advanced studies are transforming the way she does her job. “I do feel that my coursework, especially in education, evidence-based practice and incorporating research, has influenced how I communicate with patients, teach families and support new nurses on the unit,” she said. “I’m more intentional now about how I explain things, apply current best practices and help others learn.” In part, Fernandes’ educational and career journeys were shaped by her personal turning points. After earning her BSN, she was accepted into TESU’s MSN program, but she didn’t pursue the degree right away, choosing instead to prioritize family during the COVID-19 pandemic and enjoy becoming a grandparent. Then, in 2022, Fernandes lost her son to a long struggle with addiction. Although she returned to her studies in 2023, Fernandes took the January 2025 term off to help her daughter face a cancer diagnosis. Finally, she finished out her program by temporarily transitioning to a per-diem role at work so she could focus on completing her final courses and practicum. “Those experiences were the most challenging moments in my life,” Fernandes said, “but they strengthened my resilience and made me even more committed to finishing my degree and moving forward in my career.”

Fernandes also enjoyed connecting with fellow students and learning from nurses with different backgrounds from all over the country, and she found the school’s mentors, instructors, support staff and leadership to be responsive, helpful and knowledgeable. Finally, Fernandes was pleased to find that her employer-funded tuition reimbursement benefit would cover most of her costs at TESU. Although she did not receive that benefit last year when she was working per diem, she was able to use funding from numerous scholarships — some awarded by TESU and others by her employer — to help fill the gap. “I was able to complete my degrees while only paying for materials, as there were no additional fees,” she said. With her latest degree completed, Fernandes is looking forward to spending more time with her two daughters, four grandchildren and Cavapoo and taking her first trip to Italy with her husband. In addition to exercising, she’s pursuing new hobbies she never imagined she would enjoy, including gardening, cooking and listening to country music. To Fernandes, those activities are just additional opportunities to “chip away” at her educational goals. “I value learning when it comes to personal growth, as well,” she said. “You’re never too old to learn something new.” To learn more about programs in the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, visit tesu.edu/nursing. (By Beth Fand Incollingo / For TESU)

Fernandes with her family at the Hope Sheds Light Walk, biking with her husband and at Wildwood Crest with her grandchildren.

The 54th A nnual Commencement Thomas Edison State University held its 54th annual Commencement in Trenton, N.J., on Sept. 26. The ceremony was attended by hundreds of graduates with thousands of family members, friends and supporters cheering in the crowd.

Grads by

the Numbers

2,255 total degrees rewarded

B.A. in Liberal Studies most popular degree

1,225 893 males females 16

#TESUgrad

Matthew & Sarah most popular first names

319 active-duty

military grads

All 21 35 countries N.J. counties represented

represented

77 36.9 average age oldest of graduates

graduate

How four Thomas Edison State University degrees helped transform technical expertise into global leadership in critical facilities, risk management and operational resilience

David W. Garwood, DBA ’26, M.S. ’23, B.S. ’22, AAS ’13 More than 30 years ago, while building a demanding career in facility management and raising a family, David W. Garwood picked up an issue of “Invention” magazine, published by what was then Thomas Edison State College. The stories of adult learners who advanced their education while balancing work, family and community responsibilities stayed with him. They demonstrated that higher education did not have to be disconnected from real life; it could grow directly from it. That moment planted the seed for an educational journey that would eventually include an associate degree in 2013, a bachelor’s degree in 2022, a master’s degree in 2023 and a Doctor of Business Administration in 2026 — all from the institution now known as Thomas Edison State University. It also created a full-circle milestone: the magazine that once inspired him is now sharing his story. Garwood did not pursue education as a series of isolated credentials. Today, Garwood is a Senior Global Account Director at Cushman & Wakefield, but each degree corresponded with the growing complexity of his career and strengthened his ability to protect people, facilities and business operations.

His associate degree in environmental safety and security provided a foundation in compliance, safety and risk. His bachelor’s degree in homeland security and emergency management expanded that foundation into preparedness, response, recovery and continuity. His master’s degree in homeland security and counterterrorism deepened his understanding of complex threats, organizational coordination and the importance of resilient systems. The DBA completed the progression by integrating strategy, leadership, applied research and evidence-based decision-making.

David Garwood receives his doctoral hood at TESU’s 2026 Commencement ceremony in Trenton, N.J.

“The value of TESU was that I could immediately connect what I was learning to the challenges in front of me,” he said. “The courses helped me look beyond an individual building or incident and understand the larger system — people, technology, processes, governance and risk.” Spanning more than three decades, Garwood’s responsibilities progressed from hands-on technical operations to regional and global leadership. Today, at Cushman & Wakefield, he leads a global account reaching more than 160 locations in more than 70 countries. The integrated service portfolio includes integrated facility management, project development and delivery, energy and sustainability, space planning and occupancy, lease administration and strategy, environmental health and safety, workplace experience, business, continuity mitigation and resiliency, and global security operation centers. The scale is global, but the purpose is straightforward: protect people, maintain reliable operations and help the client’s business continue under both normal and extraordinary conditions. After decades in senior operational roles, Garwood decided to pursue TESU’s Doctor of Business Administration to examine leadership and organizational problems with greater rigor. His scholar-

practitioner field project was especially relevant to his current responsibilities because it brought together the central themes of his career: mission-critical infrastructure, artificial intelligence, leadership, operational risk and resilience.

because they introduced perspectives that I would not necessarily encounter in my own industry,” he said. “They reinforced that resilience, leadership and risk are not limited to one organization or sector. They are shared challenges that benefit from diverse experiences.”

The DBA experience strengthened Garwood’s ability to evaluate evidence, frame complex problems, conduct disciplined research and translate findings into actionable business recommendations. Those skills now influence how he approaches global standardization, technology adoption, risk governance, organizational change and executive communication.

Family support was equally important. Garwood and his wife, Bernadette, have four children, and he credits his family with providing the encouragement and perspective needed to remain committed throughout the journey. He also draws on a longstanding commitment to public service as a volunteer within emergency services and licensed amateur radio operator involved in emergency communications.

Garwood chose TESU because its mission and structure aligned with the realities of his life. He needed an institution that respected professional experience while maintaining academic rigor and providing the flexibility required by a global career. The online format allowed him to continue leading complex operations, traveling for work and supporting his family while progressing through each degree. He valued the practical course structure and the opportunity to exchange perspectives with mentors and classmates whose experiences extended beyond his own industry.

Being invited to share his journey in “Invention” was an unexpected and meaningful milestone. “I have never viewed education as separate from my career,” he said. “Each degree gave me a new lens for the work I was already doing and prepared me for responsibilities I had not yet taken on. TESU helped me progress from technical expertise to enterprise leadership without losing the practical focus that has always guided my work.” For more information on the Doctorate in Business Administration, visit tesu.edu/dba.

“The online discussions were valuable

InventionFall2026

Directing Her Future Patricia Childress, B.A. ’26 Patricia Childress used her decades of experience in the world of film and television to propel her into a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies in under a year, all thanks to TESU’s Prior Learning Assessment program. Patricia Childress built a decades-long career in television, including acting, producing and directing. But after 30 years in the business, she decided to return to school. Her goal wasn’t to hone her skills on the small screen. Instead, she wanted a degree that could propel her into the next stage of her life.

yet still required real work and accountability and the Prior Learning Assessment program, designed specifically for adult learners who have gained college-level knowledge through work and volunteer programs, allowed Childress to parlay her real-world experience into the building blocks of a degree.

“At this point, I didn’t go back to school because I thought a degree was suddenly going to teach me how to produce television,” she said. “I went back because there was something unfinished about not having it. Eventually, I want to teach film and television. That is my ‘why’ above everything else.”

She completed that degree in less than a year.

With a clear vision of her future, Childress focused on finding a school that fit her top two priorities. First, the program needed to recognize and value her experience in the rapidly changing, high-profile realm of television programming. Second, it needed to offer courses that fit her full-time work schedule. “I wasn’t coming to college at the beginning of my professional life. I needed a university that could look at my experience seriously,” she said. “I also needed flexibility. I was working while completing the degree, so a traditional campus experience simply wasn’t realistic.”

At TESU, Childress found both. The online aspect of TESU’s liberal arts program gave Childress flexibility

Childress found the PLA process enlightening. Equating her work performance to credit hours prompted her to slow down and take a deeper look at her accomplishments. “Building my PLA portfolio was probably equal parts validating and intimidating. In television, you don’t stop in the middle of producing a show and say, ‘Here are the competencies I’m demonstrating,’” she noted. “PLA forced me to unpack that experience — producing, writing, directing, managing teams, overseeing postproduction, working with talent, developing stories — and connect it to actual learning outcomes. The biggest surprise was realizing how much I had learned over the years without ever thinking of it as ‘learning,’” she said. “The challenge was documenting it. I had to show what I knew, how I learned it and how I had applied it professionally.” Childress also experienced another unexpected result of the PLA process. In scrutinizing every decision, high point and low point of her career through an

academic lens, she gained even more confidence in her professional life. “My professional experience gave me a real-world reference point for almost everything I was studying. I wasn’t imagining what a production environment, deadline, creative disagreement or editorial decision might look like. I had lived it,” she said. “That made the coursework especially interesting because I could take something academic and immediately compare it to what actually happens in the field.” She started her career as an actress in her 20s and soon discovered a passion for producing. Her work on “Behind the Music” on VH1 set a new standard for elevated docuseries in the late 1990s. She launched four successful television shows: “The Dr. Phil Ultimate Weight Loss Show,” the Emmy Award-winning “Tyra Banks Show,” “The Talk” and “Anderson.” Her writing and production credits include work with A&E, Bravo and CBS. Over three decades, she witnessed the television industry expand into streaming, digital, branded content, social media and experiential work. “When you’ve been doing something for a long time, you tend to focus on the next deadline, the next production and the next problem. You don’t unnecessarily stop and take inventory of what you’ve learned along the way. Building my PLA portfolio forced me to do that,” she said. “Seeing my body of work distilled gave me a tremendous boost in confidence — like ‘Wow, I actually pulled that off.’” Childress specifically thanks her academic program advisor, Amy Immordino, for her input. “Without her, I never would have tackled this beast. She held my hand through the entire process and helped me choose the courses that I was actually interested in and wanted to take outside of my PLA courses. I could not have done this without Amy’s guidance.” Today, Childress runs a small production company where she works as a creative producer and content strategist. She spends her days developing ideas and producing content across entertainment, branded media, live events and social and experiential marketing. “A lot of what I do now lives at

the intersection of creativity and production,” she said. “I’m coming up with the idea, figuring out how to execute it and making sure the finished product actually connects with an audience.” Childress credits a good portion of her success in life, work and school to her past. She grew up in Texas under the Friday night lights where everyone’s dream was football or cheerleading.

and her new degree, Childress is excited by her vision of the future. “As I grow older, I am totally looking forward to becoming a whack-a-doo professor,” she said. To learn more about TESU’s PLA program, visit tesu.edu/pla. (By Ayleen Gontz / For TESU)

“I was the goth theater kid, always in some kind of mischief or creation, always involved in the arts and theater production of some kind. My sister, Helen, was the same way. We are very lucky to have parents who were incredibly supportive of our aspirations. Helen has had phenomenal success with her screenwriting and producing career,” she said. “None of it has to do with luck. It was all about focus and determination. Maybe a pinch of delusion as well.” Childress also calls out her husband as part of her success throughout her life. “I am married to the most amazing person in the world. My husband, Daniel, is a TV and film editor. We both decided to not have kids because we wanted to focus on our careers. So we work all the time, but we also love to hike and escape into the California mountains.” Completing her B.A. in Liberal Science carries great personal meaning for Childress. “In television, you learn very quickly that staring at the entire production doesn’t get the show made. You figure out what has to happen next, then you do that thing. Then the next thing. And the next,” she said. “That’s basically how I approached my degree. I stopped looking at the whole mountain and started looking at the next assignment, the next portfolio requirement, the next credit. Eventually there wasn’t a next thing. I was done. “I was working a full-time job and had other obligations,” she said, “but I just kept my focus on having the degree in my hand.” With a long-running, continuing career

InventionFall2026

Hector Nickolas Martinez, B.S. ’26 After two decades building a career in healthcare IT, Hector Martinez finally earned a long-sought degree. As a gifted high school student, Hector Nickolas Martinez had hoped to become a doctor, lawyer or technology expert. But his dreams were derailed when he wasn’t able to pursue a college degree. Although Martinez has since worked his way up to a leadership role in healthcare IT, his completion of a B.S. in Healthcare Management at Thomas Edison University in June 2026 marked his triumph over a longing that had troubled him for two and a half decades. It meant so much that he has now enrolled in TESU’s MBA program. “Nothing comes easy, but the gratification of achieving your educational goals and dreams and their outcomes surpasses the challenges and sacrifices,” he said of his journey. Martinez serves as manager of IT applications and clinical informatics at Summit Health, a New Jersey multispecialty medical practice. In that role, he manages the IT team that develops, implements and improves Epic, the electronic medical record system used by the organization’s doctors and practices.

He’s pleased that his work supports patient health and safety by improving workflows and ensuring that information

is communicated clearly. “I’m passionate about seeing people succeed and grow. Their happiness and wellness really serve as gratification for me,” Martinez noted. “It’s great for me to see how my work impacts the lives of others for the better.” Martinez pursued his degree because he wants to contribute even more on the job. “My desire has been to efficiently lead others in the best way possible,” he said. “In the future, I would like to have an executive leadership role that is focused on people, projects and processes and generating positive outcomes and the communities I serve.” Martinez got his first chance to work with technology at High Tech High School in Hudson County, N.J., where he was

(Left) Martinez at his wedding to wife Michelle. (Right) Martinez with his grandmother Isabel Altagracia Martinez and grandfather Hector Maximiliano Martinez at his High-Tech High School Senior Class Ring Ceremony.

among 120 freshmen chosen from 5,000 applicants in 1996. At the honors-level public magnet school, he was trained to use both Windows and Mac applications and hardware. He also served as a DJ and program director for the school’s first online streaming radio station and studied audio engineering and sound synthesis. That enabled him to complete internships at New York City radio stations and engineer sound for shows at clubs and other performance spaces. As he neared graduation, Martinez was honored to be chosen by faculty and peers to receive a class scholarship to help with college costs, but was heartbroken to have to decline it. Although he dreamed of pursuing a degree, working to support himself and his family was a more immediate priority. For four years, Martinez worked in a grocery store in Bronx, N.Y., a four-hour round-trip commute that he undertook six days a week. After that, he was glad to find a job closer to home at Mi Bandera Corporation in Union City, N.J., which owned a supermarket, a liquor store and a restaurant.

where Martinez met an executive from SRS Health (now Nextech), which provides electronic health records software to physician practices. Despite his lack of professional technology experience, the executive was impressed with Martinez and hired him to fill an open position. “I put in extra hours to learn the software and be able to train on it and teach others,” he said. “That meant working very long days. After six months, I was given my first project without shadowing anyone.” He proved himself in that project. “I’ve been able to progress and lead in that space ever since.” With growing responsibility came not only income but also confidence, inspiring Martinez to finally pursue a college education. In 2010, he enrolled as a human services major at Hudson County Community College, but after he had completed 32 credits, concerns about work-life balance interfered. He again shelved his educational dreams. More than a decade later, Martinez enrolled at TESU after learning from a friend about its remote programming aimed at working adults.

“I was able to meet the owner, and he gave me the support and opportunity to learn the business from the bottom up,” Martinez said. “By 2010, I had been promoted to assistant general manager.”

The commitment required him to spend nights, early mornings and weekends studying and completing assignments while also working full time and planning his May 2026 wedding to his wife, Michelle. Often, the experience felt overwhelming.

His next move was spurred by an encounter at a friend’s barbecue,

Still, “my thought was that there will never be a right time, because there will

always be something that gets in the way,” he said. “So, why not now?” “As working adults, we all have goals and dreams of self-betterment and of attaining the career opportunities that will help us better the lives of those around us,” he said. “We should not be complacent, as our world and lives are a gift, and our talents should always be leveraged for good.” Although completing his program was tough, Martinez enjoyed it, in part because it connected him with peers who shared his aspirations and his inspiration who sparked his educational odyssey. He credits his maternal grandmother, who emigrated from the Dominican Republic to help raise him, with modeling that attitude. “She showed me responsibility, dedication and ethics,” Martinez said. “These virtues have been ingrained in me throughout the years and especially now as I continue this educational journey at TESU. My whole family has provided the guidance, support and motivation I needed to continue to learn and be a better version of me.” To learn more about the B.S. in Healthcare Management, visit tesu.edu/healthcare-management. (By Beth Fand Incollingo / For TESU)

InventionFall2026

A Lesson in Perspective Mitchell Horn, DBA ’26

How Mitchell Horn’s focus on his future kept him motivated on his journey

For Mitchell Horn, focus has been the

lodestone that guided him through his education and career. Before he became CFO of portfolio services with a private equity organization, he set his sights on the C-suite and beyond. Earning his Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) helped guide him there. As a member of the New Jersey Air National Guard, Horn honed his leadership experience, taking on unique challenges that required teamwork and strategy. He found the effectiveness and productivity generated by a team with a common mission was unstoppable. He had the opportunity to use his National Guard tuition benefit to realize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to obtain his terminal degree. After earning his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and his Master of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Connecticut, he realized that could only get him so far. He needed to make additional gains and earn a DBA to get into the C-suite. “I’ve been focused on building a career in corporate finance,” Horn said. “The overall strategy is to start in entry-level positions at large corporations and then get promoted to higher-level positions in smaller organizations. I had my first opportunity to lead in 2010 and that was the moment that changed my career.” His clear vision of his future led him to his DBA at TESU. He chose the University because of its reputation with military professionals and flexible model that allows people in uniform to pursue higher education. The University’s online model allowed him to manage the complexities of parenthood, work multiple jobs and still find time for personal satisfaction. “When the work is online, there are no excuses. It boils down to time management and directing your efforts to self-improvement,” noted Horn. “If you have the inspiration to grow, TESU will support you on that journey, no matter where your starting point is.” For Horn, it all comes back to perspective. As CFO of WM Partners LP, he encounters a wide range of financial obstacles on a daily basis, and his role to improve the profitability of the various companies he supports can be an uphill battle. Due to persistent inflation, retailer-industry concentration, increased competition driven by advances in

technology and rapidly declining barriers to entry, he has to prioritize the activities that will create the most value for the entity. “The DBA program prepares leaders to face these types of challenges from a position of confidence and preparedness. The education acquired in the DBA program enables leaders to slice through the noise and focus on the big rocks,” he said. Learning from the strategies his classmates implemented gave Horn a deep toolbox from which to draw. In his specific cohort, Horn worked alongside an extremely accomplished team of business leaders across many industries. The interaction with his fellow students enabled him to go above and beyond the confinements of his industry of expertise.

Mitchell Horn, DBA '26

New Jersey Air National Guard.

“As leaders, our job is to solve problems. It’s an advantage to have exposure to a wide range of problems that other leaders are facing,” he noted.

“I felt overwhelmed from day 1 to day 1,000,” Horn was not shy in admitting. “The way to overcome challenge is to build a weekly survival plan and execute.”

The DBA program not only offered perspective from other learners, it also offered a strong support team that shepherds its students through the experience to their terminal degree.

Horn would make time for coursework in the early mornings and on Saturdays. His key was creating a to-do list at the beginning of every week and including the estimated time for each task.

“The reality is that the DBA program requires an immense amount of selfdiscipline and motivation,” Horn said. “The entire extended TESU team that provides the infrastructure, direction and coaching enables the DBA participants to thrive. Everything works, everything is clear, it just comes down to who’s willing to invest in themselves and put in the work.”

He also tried to dedicate one day per week to being 100% computer free to manage mental fortitude.

Selecting a final area of concentration in the program is a critical task, and it’s important to have an expert to help define the parameters and dig down into core objectives. Horn’s DBA coach, Dr. Cheryl Chance, helped Horn do just that. Earning a degree dials up the intensity in one area of life, and that can make other areas of life seem even more chaotic. Horn was working on his final assignment of the program when Chance stepped in to offer guidance and clarity. “She acted as a compass in a time when I had to decide the direction,” Horn said of Chance. That guidance kept Horn on track through his duties as vice president of finance and CFO as well as in his parttime work as a budget officer with the

His advice to anyone looking to undertake a DBA? “Don’t pursue this program unless you are willing to make significant life changes. Only select this program if you’re ready for a monumental challenge that will transform the way that you operate as a senior business leader,” he advised. Horn also cited his time in the Air National Guard, and is grateful for the mentors that inspired him to push himself and lead by example. He specifically thanks Command Chief Skierski and Command Chief Rakauckus. In his free time, Horn enjoys staying healthy and maintaining a life away from his computer. To find out more about the academic programs offered by TESU’s School of Business and Management or to join us for an upcoming webinar or open house, visit tesu.edu/business. (By Sara Stricker / TESU)

InventionFall2026

university news

University reports 11% increase in total degrees as enrollment rises TESU reported this fall that it conferred 11% more degrees in FY26 than in the previous year, including significant increases in the number of baccalaureate and doctoral degrees awarded, as the University continues to expand its reach among working professionals. The University awarded 19% more baccalaureate degrees, including an 88% increase of graduates from the Accelerated BSN program, and 91% more doctoral degrees in FY26 than FY25. Growth in new undergraduate and doctoral enrollment was driven largely by increases in new student enrollment over the last several years. New undergraduate enrollment increased 13% in FY26, while new doctoral enrollment increased 41%.

significant growth with new enrollment increasing 40%, from 20 to 28 students. The University has rolling term starts and expects these programs to continue to grow in the coming year.

This year’s growth was particularly notable in several high-demand health professions programs. New enrollment in the University’s Accelerated BSN increased 23%, from 149 to 183 students. The DNP program also experienced

The enrollment and degreecompletion results reflect the University’s continued growth in meeting the needs of working professionals through flexible, engaging coursework that draws on the real-world experience students bring to the classroom. At TESU, students learn not only from mentors but also from their classmates, fellow working professionals whose diverse experiences enrich the educational experience and provide valuable perspectives as they pursue degrees aligned with the needs of today’s workforce.

Bradshaw etchings get new exhibit space The University celebrated the relocation of the George A. Bradshaw Collection of etchings to a newly renovated space within the historic Kelsey Building. TESU President Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., was joined by members of the University’s Board of Trustees and University leaders for the unveiling of the collection’s new home in June. “Bradshaw’s work allows us to see Trenton through the eyes of someone who deeply appreciated its history and character,” Hancock said. “His etchings connect us to the people, places and industries that built this community.” The Bradshaw Collection offers a remarkable visual record of Trenton’s past, consisting of 64 etchings created by renowned artist George A. Bradshaw, whose work documented the buildings, streets, industries and landmarks that helped shape the city. The collection was donated to the University in 1986 by Raymond L. Steen, retired president of the Broad Street National Bank, in memory of his wife, Mary McPherson Steen.

Through his artwork, Bradshaw preserved images of places and scenes that might

otherwise have been lost to history. His etchings provide a unique glimpse into Trenton’s evolution and reflect a deep appreciation for the city’s character and heritage. The collection’s new location in the Kelsey Building is TESU President Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., and TESU Board of Trustees Chair Eric R. Lear view the George A. particularly Bradshaw Collection at its June unveiling. fitting. The of art now includes a unique QR code building itself is an important part of that visitors can scan to learn additional Trenton’s story and once housed the details about each etching, as well as new School for the Industrial Arts where web pages on the University site. Bradshaw taught; it now stands as a symbol of the University’s commitment The George A. Bradshaw Collection to preserving the city’s architectural is available for viewing by visitors to heritage. the Kelsey Building and remains an important educational and cultural The newly designed space provides an resource for the University and the greater enhanced environment for displaying Trenton community. and protecting the collection. Each piece

university news

Harmon appointed new provost critical areas of the University, including accreditation, academic partnerships, Credit for Prior Learning, learning assessment and program review. He also served as the interim dean of the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education for the 2024–2026 academic years. His work has been especially impactful in cultivating partnerships that support innovation, workforce alignment and TESU’s broader strategic goals focused on growth, impact and student success.

The University announced the appointment of Dr. Jeffrey S. Harmon as provost, succeeding Dr. Cynthia Baum who retired in March following years of distinguished service to the University. Harmon previously served as vice provost for Strategic Initiatives and Institutional Effectiveness. The appointment came after a national search and at a pivotal time for TESU as the University continues to build momentum through sustained enrollment growth and an expanding statewide presence and impact. “Dr. Harmon has demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect academic programming and innovation with workforce and student success initiatives to directly advance the mission of the University,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president. “As TESU continues to grow and meet the dynamic needs of our students, his experience and leadership will be essential in ensuring we embrace

Jeffrey S. Harmon, Ed.D., provost of TESU

the changing workforce, maintain academic excellence and deepen our engagement across the state and beyond.” Since joining TESU in 2017, Harmon has provided leadership across several

Among his most notable initiatives, Harmon has led TESU’s collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development on the statewide Apprenticeship Degree Initiative, a first-of-its-kind three-year, $5 million effort designed to connect workforce training with college degrees and expand educational opportunities for apprentices across New Jersey.

New 30-credit graduate degrees to expand access and affordability In July, the University announced that, to cater to the evolving demands of working professionals and regional employers, it would launch three new 30-credit graduate-degree programs focused on business, management and liberal studies. The streamlined offerings are designed to provide adult learners with more efficient, flexible and affordable pathways to advanced credentials without sacrificing academic rigor. The newly introduced programs target high-demand skill gaps across modern industries: Professional Master of Business Administration: Tailored for adult learners looking to sharpen their business acumen, this track emphasizes strategic thinking, leadership development and an entrepreneurial approach to complex market challenges.

Professional Master of Management: Built for practicing professionals and recent graduates, this accelerated option focuses on strengthening core management capabilities and improving organizational performance across diverse occupational fields. Master of Arts in Liberal Studies: An interdisciplinary program aimed at refining critical thinking, advanced communication and complex problem-solving skills applicable to a wide spectrum of careers. To learn more about all of TESU's graduate programs, visit tesu.edu/graduate.

InventionFall2026

foundation news

TESU Foundation appoints new board members In August, the Thomas Edison State University Foundation announced the appointment of two accomplished leaders to its Board of Directors, further strengthening the Foundation’s commitment to advancing the University’s mission through strategic partnerships. Christina Allen, DNP, associate vice president of Clinical Practice and Academics at Capital Health, and Arnold E. Harrison III, vice president of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, joined the board. Their appointments were approved during the Foundation Board’s June meeting, continuing the Foundation’s valued board representation from two longstanding TESU partners. Allen and Harrison bring additional expertise in healthcare, workforce development and education to support the University’s strategic priorities. “Christina and Arnold are exceptional leaders whose experience and commitment to education and workforce development align closely with the mission of Thomas Edison State University,” said Mary Heagley, vice president for Advancement at TESU and executive vice president of the TESU Foundation. “Their diverse perspectives and deep connections to the communities we serve will be invaluable as the Foundation advances initiatives that support educational opportunities for working professionals.” Allen oversees the educational infrastructure at Capital Health, including its graduate medical education and medical residency programs, Capital Health’s School of Nursing, Capital Health School of Radiologic Technology, the Clinical Education department and a variety of career training academies and workforce development programs. She also manages Capital Health’s academic affiliations with colleges and universities. Since joining Capital Health in 2014 as a clinical nurse specialist in Telemetry and Critical Care, Allen has held several leadership positions within Clinical

Education and Educational Operations before assuming her current role. She brings extensive expertise in nursing, healthcare leadership and healthcare education, along with a strong understanding of TESU’s mission and innovative educational model. Allen earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Drexel University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing as an adultgerontology clinical nurse specialist, as well as a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Delaware. She has received numerous honors, including the Capital Health Medical Staff Award for Academic Excellence, a Nursing Excellence Award and a DAISY Nursing Award. Harrison serves as vice president of Local Union 255 of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and has been a member of the union for more than 25 years. Before being elected vice president, he served four years as treasurer of Local Union 255.

Christina Allen, DNP

In addition, Harrison serves as senior council representative for the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, overseeing In-House Casino and Millwork Carpenters. His leadership experience also includes two terms on the Southampton Township Board of Education, and he is currently serving a second term on the Southampton Township Committee. Harrison brings valuable experience in the skilled trades, workforce development and labor communities, strengthening the Foundation Board’s connection to industries that rely on highly skilled, career-focused professionals. To learn more about the TESU Foundation and the strategic initiatives that support TESU students, visit tesu.edu/advancement.

Arnold E. Harrison III

MEE T A TESU GENIUS

Karen Schober, DBA ’26, MBA ’23, B.A. ’15 Karen Schober recently completed her third degree with Thomas Edison State University. “As an alum, I plan on engaging with the alumni roles offered by TESU and the School of Business. Networking is great, and the staff, mentors and fellow students are all amazing people. I look forward to growing those relationships,” says Schober. “I completed the Genius Program because it was a fun way to engage with the University and promote the school easily.” Schober learned about TESU in the 90s after the birth of her first child and in 2014 decided to earn a bachelor’s degree to find better employment. TESU accepted all of her credits from her previously earned associate degree and even her American Red Cross certificates, allowing her to complete her B.A. in Psychology in under a year. “When I returned to school to get my MBA, TESU was the only place I wanted to go because my experience had been so good,” Schober noted. “It worked for my life, being both fulltime employed and having a family. It gave me the flexibility I needed to return to school and finish.”

A LUM NI

With a goal of better marketing her novels (Schober is a published author of romance and nonfiction works), she decided to pursue her MBA in marketing. It gave her a bigger picture of how business worked. After completing her MBA, Schober was working at selling health insurance and then shifted into medical billing as she entered TESU’s DBA program. “Because of what I was learning within the program, I realized I could turn it into a medical billing and small business-solutions company focused on mental health practices and other businesses,” Schober noted. “I am TESU’s biggest cheerleader, recommending it to anyone who is even thinking about returning to school. Deciding to enroll in the Doctor of Business Administration program was easy but I never realized how much it was going to change my life. My previous degrees were for getting better jobs. This one was for me,” Schober concluded.

Karen Schober, DBA ’26, MBA ’23, B.A. ’15

To learn more about the Genius Program, visit tesu.edu/genius. (By Meg Frantz / TESU)

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Tuesday, December 1, 2026