I am excited to share the Spring 2025 “Invention” magazine, our Donor Impact issue. This edition is focused on the influence of generosity, leadership and service and how these attributes create opportunities for the communities we serve.
In this issue, we highlight the transformative work of the TESU Foundation and its commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that enhance the University’s ability to offer an exceptional student experience. The Foundation’s Board of Directors comprises dedicated leaders, alumni and generous supporters who believe in the power of education. Their expertise, advocacy and philanthropy are crucial in advancing our mission.
As you will read, Nancy Gloor has served as chair of the TESU Foundation Board since 2021 and will pass that mantle to alumnus Steven King in June. On behalf of the entire University community, I extend my deepest gratitude to Nancy for her leadership and counsel. Her insights and impact will help shape the Foundation for years to come.
Corporate philanthropy remains a cornerstone of our mission. In this issue, we highlight one of our most steadfast partners, PSEG. The company’s three decades of investment in TESU have significantly benefited the veteran and active-duty military students we are honored to serve. We also showcase the contributions of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine and others whose generosity supports our programs and drives student success.
We will also honor Cathy Punchello, University vice provost and registrar and TESU’s longest-standing employee-donor. She has dedicated her career to serving TESU students and reinforces that commitment through her philanthropy. Her generosity –alongside that of many of our staff members – makes degree completion feasible for the students we are privileged to serve.
You will also meet students and alumni such as Kathryn Hendershot, A.S. ’24, and Master of Science in Human Resource Management student Suzana Christopher, B.A. ’24. Their accomplishments encourage us to keep innovating, educating and developing career-focused programs that empower individuals to reach their full potential.
I hope this spring’s “Invention” will inspire you to reflect on your achievements and how TESU may have impacted your life. Together, we remain proudly committed to igniting the spark of possibility in others.
Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. President, TESU
A LEGACY of OPPORTUNITY
Steven R. King’s Commitment to TESU and Its Students
When Steven King, MBA ’15, BSBA ’93, began his academic journey, he was like many TESU students – an ambitious adult learner juggling a career, family and coursework.
His academic success enhanced his vibrant career, and he is now committed to ensuring that others have the same opportunity. As a proud TESU alumnus, philanthropist and chair of the TESU Foundation Board, King focuses on programs that remove financial barriers and improve access to higher education. The University’s Zero Textbook Cost
every student should have the support they need to succeed.”
King understands the value of an accessible, accredited degree program at an affordable price better than most. As an alum of the School of Business and Management and the incoming chair of the TESU Foundation Board, he is also a respected business leader with more than 27 years of progressive experience in the financial services and information technology sectors.
In addition to his current role as managing partner at Tulloch Investments LLC, King is also an investor, strategic advisor or board member for several early-stage technology companies. He is the former executive chairman of Nuxeo (later acquired by
Hyland Software). Before that, he was the CEO of Recommind, a leading eDiscovery and information analytics provider. In 2010, King became the president and CEO of DocuSign, guiding the company to more than $20 million in revenue. He led ZANTAZ Inc. as its president and CEO earlier in his career. Under his guidance, the company became a market leader in cloud-based content archiving and e-discovery solutions. He also held executive positions at E*TRADE and ultimately became the CEO of E*OFFERING, a pioneering online investment bank under the E*TRADE umbrella.
“Working in the tech industry for a Silicon Valley firm at that time was exhilarating and rewarding, but I knew a bachelor’s degree would help advance my career.
I researched and discovered Thomas Edison State [then] College,”
he said. “Its online component didn’t exist yet, but the flexibility to work at my own pace while earning college credits did, and it was a perfect fit for me. Throughout my professional life, I’ve had the good fortune of being in the right place at the right time. My degree helped ensure I was prepared to take advantage of those opportunities. I am forever grateful to this university and committed to giving back in any way possible.”
During the University’s 2024 Commencement ceremony, King was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa, in recognition of his achievements and positive impact. During his acceptance speech, he lauded TESU graduates and their families in attendance, stating, “I know from experience that you have faced challenges that might have seemed insurmountable without your family’s support. I began my education three decades ago, and I’m sure my story mirrors that of many graduates and students.”
The Kings have worked with TESU’s leadership to structure their philanthropy around initiatives like the ZTC program.
platform. The free tool helps prospective students assess prior learning credits and their potential application toward a degree. The platform also allows them to create comprehensive professional profiles encompassing certifications,
King has been an invaluable member of the TESU Foundation Board since 2013.
“A significant challenge adult learners face is the cost of required course materials,” noted Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., president of TESU. “A recent study found that the average cost for textbooks or learning materials per college course was $153, an expense many students do not anticipate when they enroll. As a result, up to 65% of students nationwide attempt to complete coursework without essential materials even though they realize it may negatively impact their success. Our ability to integrate free learning resources into our degree programs is largely thanks to Steve’s efforts in tandem with the TESU Foundation’s work and individual supporters who provide funding for the development, integration and expansion of free textbooks and learning materials.”
“Serving on the Foundation Board offers a chance to advocate for strategic endeavors that empower students and give back to the institution that has played an essential role in my academic and professional journey. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to the University’s initiatives, particularly those that support student success and enhance its capacity to reach even more learners,” said King. “I’ve always been passionate about education’s role in changing lives. I feel privileged to be a part of TESU’s commitment to students and have seen firsthand how its innovative approach allows students to balance their education with personal and professional obligations. It’s motivating to be part of an institution dedicated to addressing the needs of nontraditional students, providing them with a pathway to success. My passion for the transformative role of education runs deep, and I am privileged to be an instrumental part of TESU’s commitment to adult learners.”
“THROUGHOUT MY PROFESSIONAL LIFE, I’VE HAD THE GOOD FORTUNE OF BEING IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME. MY DEGREE HELPED ENSURE I WAS PREPARED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THOSE OPPORTUNITIES. I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL TO THIS UNIVERSITY AND COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK IN ANY WAY POSSIBLE.”
King continues to play a pivotal role in the institution’s mission.
In addition to the University’s ZTC program, the Kings have supported the launch of TESU’s Credit Predictor Pro
credentials and other training experiences that may be translated into college credits. The Kings also provide funding to support the School of Business and Management’s doctoral orientations, research symposiums and networking sessions as well as TESU’s Annual Golf Classic and scholarship programs.
“I can’t think of a better way to demonstrate TESU’s unique niche in higher education than Credit Predictor Pro, which will inspire potential users to pursue or complete their degree. My wife Kay and I are delighted to support the University in making it possible for more prospective students to utilize this tool,” stated King.
“Education is the key to unlocking potential and creating brighter futures. Kay and I also believe giving back is an important way to leave a legacy,” said King. “Supporting initiatives that reduce barriers to degree completion allows us to contribute to something greater than ourselves and pave the way for the next generation of leaders and innovators. We believe that paying it forward for others provides life-changing opportunities for students and their families.”
To learn more about the School of Business and Management programs, visit tesu.edu/business. For more information about the Zero Cost Textbook initiative, visit tesu.edu/ztc. To know whether your prior learning or expertise equates to college credits, check out the Credit Predictor Pro platform: creditpredictor.org/cpl/#/ tesu/login
STEVE KING, MBA ’15, BSBA ’93
Photo:HeartstringsPhotoCo.
Kathryn Hendershot, A.S. ’24, endured food, housing and health insecurity, but she was determined that nothing would stand in the way of earning her degree.
“It was nerve-wracking at times to come up with the difference between federal student aid and the remaining balance in my student account,” said Hendershot, who is now enrolled in the B.A. in
English program at TESU.
“I am disabled with a limited income, so I did not want student loans to jeopardize my financial future. I have experienced multiple delays and detours during my degree progression and have even been on the brink of homelessness. In spite of all that, I feel my situation speaks to even larger obstacles faced by those who
are similarly disadvantaged but remain focused on earning a college degree.”
Since the onset of the COVID pandemic, Hendershot has relied on state disability payments, often having to choose between paying her rent on time, affording groceries or enrolling in her next course. Despite this cyclical dilemma, she said that relief has come
via TESU scholarship support. In 2024, she was awarded a Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation Scholarship for $2,000 and TESU Foundation Student Relief Funding for $250. In 2023, she received a further $2,000 through the University’s Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust scholarship.
“I am profoundly grateful for the scholarship support because I am often forced to choose between putting gas in my car, food in my stomach or purchasing study materials for my next course. Simply put, I would not have been able to continue my education without scholarship support,” she stated. “I am grateful that TESU made concessions for me and allowed me to enroll while carrying an outstanding balance. Also, if it were not for the course mentors being so understanding and inspiring, I could not have achieved as much as I have.”
She said the University’s reputation, costeffectiveness and online course structure provided additional advantages.
“The local public universities and community colleges near my home in Centreville, Va., have some of the region’s highest tuition rates. Comparatively, TESU is much more cost-effective. Not only did the value attract me, but also its reputation, regional and professional accreditation and array of course offerings,” she said. “The University has pioneered many aspects of online course delivery and understands the value of high-quality instruction.”
the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission, which oversees the iconic Lower Trenton Bridge connecting Trenton, N.J., with Morrisville, Pa. She requested that its customary lighting be changed to TESU university colors to commemorate the occasion. A couple of administrative calls later, the prominent “Trenton Makes the World Takes” lettering was illuminated by TESU’s signature burgundy, blue and gold spirit colors on the evenings before and after the Commencement ceremony.
“The ‘Trenton Makes the World Takes’ messaging is a refrain many of us share, and we’re very proud of it,” said Hendershot, who hails from neighboring Bucks County, Pa. “That signage captivated me in my youth. When we traveled to the New Jersey Transit Station in Trenton years ago, my dad would explain that the phrase alluded to the town’s heritage as a worldwide supplier of pottery, glass, textiles, iron and rubber during the 19th century.”
Using TESU’s student support mechanisms to her advantage, Hendershot also sought the help of TESU’s Office of Career Development to fine-tune her resume midway through her degree program.
“I am proud of my polished, updated resume and cannot wait to add my academic accomplishments. Because I had such a stellar experience, I recommend that my friends contact the staff in that office for help with their resumes,” Hendershot said.
To learn more about the academic programs in the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education, visit tesu.edu/heavin
Hendershot found her online exchanges with mentors and fellow students valuable as she progressed in her studies.
“TESU has a great system in which students learn the course material individually and then receive valuable feedback from other students and course mentors during the online discussion forum exchanges,” she said. “The course materials, student resources and online interactions supported and guided our projects. The process can be rigorous, but the critical thinking required encourages students to engage in the concepts and apply creative analysis and solutions in assignments.”
To celebrate earning her associate degree during the University’s 2024 Commencement, Hendershot chose to display TESU’s spirit colors – but not in a regular fashion. She contacted
“SIMPLY PUT, I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO CONTINUE MY EDUCATION WITHOUT SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT.”
KATHRYN HENDERSHOT, A.S. ’24
The Multiplier Effect
Vice Provost and University Registrar Cathy Punchello, MSM ’13
During TESU Foundation’s Day of Giving, the University proudly celebrated its longest-serving employee donor: Vice Provost and University Registrar Cathy Punchello, MSM ’13.
Dedicated employees are the cornerstone of any thriving university, but those who give back as donors create a multiplier effect, further sustaining our University’s present and future. Cathy Punchello joined Thomas Edison in 1994 as a registration coordinator before advancing to her current role as vice provost and university registrar. From the beginning, she has redoubled her commitment by contributing to the TESU Foundation through payroll deduction.
“Employee donors play a pivotal role in advancing the University’s mission by creating a legacy of lasting change,” said Mary Heagley, vice president for Advancement and executive vice president of the TESU Foundation, during the December event. “There is no better endorsement for an institution than to have a respected employee, with such a deep understanding of the institution, consistently supporting it in this way. We are deeply grateful to Cathy for her 31 years of steadfast generosity and dedication.”
Punchello has internalized the University’s mission and student-first focus throughout her tenure and views her role at TESU as far more than just an occupation.
“Our mission is ingrained in who I am, and my colleagues have become like family,” she noted. “Together, we work diligently to serve our students and help them achieve their educational goals. I feel privileged to work alongside such a talented and committed team. Thomas Edison is more than a workplace; it is a community of individuals who truly embrace ‘building careers, advancing professions and empowering lives.’”
Under Punchello’s leadership, the Office of the Registrar maintains and safeguards student records in compliance with state and federal regulations. This entails overseeing academic evaluations, registration
processing, grading, reporting enrollment data, data analyses and managing graduation audits and certifications. On an institutional level, she has been integral to student lifecycle, process management, strategic planning, University re-accreditation and academic system implementation endeavors and enhancements.
“It has always been important to me to show my support for this mission and our students by contributing to the TESU Foundation. It is a meaningful tradition that I plan to continue every year,” added Punchello.
A proud TESU alumna, she earned her Master of Science in Management degree and a graduate certificate in Organizational Management and Leadership from the University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Sociology from Rider University, Lawrenceville, N.J.
L. Evans, BSBA ’89, understood the power and potential of education.
In 1989, at 47, Beverley L. Evans earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting from Thomas Edison State College. However, her connection with the institution did not end there.
Eleven years later, Evans decided to preserve her legacy long after she was gone. She set up a trust to benefit Thomas Edison State University as part of her estate planning. Earlier this year, the TESU Foundation received notice of Evans’ passing and a $10,000 donation from her estate. It was a final act of generosity that will support students for years to come.
“Beverley believed that higher education empowered women,” said her friend and colleague Roberto Anaya, who had known her for 22 years. “She used her degree to advance herself professionally and knew that her education gave her an advantage in the workplace.”
Evans established a successful career as a senior accountant for the County of San Mateo in California. According to Anaya, she consistently engaged in
thoughtful discussions about education and politics. “She was my favorite person and friend,” Anaya reflected.
The University is pleased to honor Evans as a lifelong member of the University’s 1972 Giving Society, ensuring that her commitment to education endures.
“TESU is privileged that Ms. Evans chose to leave a legacy, and she will always be a member of the University’s 1972 Giving Society. Her generosity in supporting scholarships at TESU will have a
meaningful impact on the students we serve, and we are grateful for her and the many alumni who include the University in their estate plans,” stated Mary Heagley, vice president for Advancement and executive director of the TESU Foundation. “Leaving a bequest is a powerful planned giving tool many supporters use to create legacy gifts.”
To help others explore the impact of planned giving, TESU has partnered with FreeWill, an online resource that simplifies the process for students and alumni to create a will — often the first step in estate planning.
Evans’ desire to pay it forward for others stemmed from observing the challenges women often encounter in the workplace. Following her passing, numerous educational institutions received donations, underscoring her deep commitment to making education accessible to others.
To learn more about how you can leave a legacy through planned giving, visit tesu.edu/plannedgiving
Expanding Access
New funding and partnerships expand opportunities for psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Donor support, grant funding and a tenacious academic community are expanding career opportunities for nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric and mental health care.
To meet the mounting demand for these professionals, TESU, along with its educational partners and donors, is working to eliminate academic and financial barriers for RNs entering the field. Support from Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine and grant assistance from the U.S. Department of Labor are helping to make this goal a reality.
“We are thankful for our partnership with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, whose generous donation of $66,500 will directly benefit TESU nursing students enrolled in our newly launched Master of Science in Nursing’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program,” stated Ruth Wittmann-Price, Ph.D., dean of the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions. “This contribution aligns with TESU’s funding from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Nursing Expansion Grant Program, further enhancing our commitment to preparing quality mental health practitioners.”
The program has spawned key institutional partnerships in the Trenton community and beyond.
“We are fortunate to be among a select group of hospitals in New Jersey chosen to partner with TESU when the U.S. Department of Labor’s Nursing Expansion Grant Program was launched
in 2023,” said Michael Voll, chief nursing officer at Ancora Psychiatric Hospital in Hammonton, N.J. “This educational partnership will help our institution attract more nurses and enable our registered nurses to advance in their careers by enrolling in Thomas Edison’s PMHNP program. Professional development is integral to Ancora’s mission, and evidence consistently demonstrates that better-educated nurses lead to more favorable patient outcomes. Our field can be challenging, but it is immensely rewarding, and professionally, there is no other place I would rather be.”
In addition to its collaboration with Ancora, TESU has teamed up with Trenton Psychiatric Hospital and Capital Health to tackle critical staff shortages in the field. These initiatives and the funding supporting them are converging at a pivotal moment.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the mental health field will face a shortage of 250,000 professionals this year. New Jersey, where the need is especially urgent, ranks 26th among U.S. states in terms of mental health provider availability, with one-third of its demand for professionals unmet. Additionally, Trenton, the capital city of New Jersey
and home to the University, has an inpatient mental health admissions rate that is double the state average. The grant support offers crucial scholarship funding
for students enrolled in the PMHNP program and will enhance TESU’s efforts to expand and upskill the state’s healthcare workforce to counteract these trends.
“At Johnson & Johnson, we are striving to close the gap between community and care so that better health is within reach of all people,” noted Leighann Forbes, Ph.D., vice president, U.S. Medical Affairs, Neuroscience for Johnson & Johnson. “With deep roots in New Jersey, we are strengthening the health workforce to improve access to mental health care for our neighbors. Through this program, nurses will be better equipped to respond to the mental health needs of our community but also connected to opportunities to provide care through the collaborations
established with area hospitals.”
The W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions at TESU has developed customized coursework to train 20 nurses enrolled in the program for careers in the field. Johnson & Johnson’s support for this initiative has been crucial to the program’s launch and effectiveness.
“The School is uniquely positioned to prepare advanced-level, compassionate nursing professionals who can address critical workforce shortages in psychiatric and mental health care across the patient lifespan,” said Dr. Eboni Brown-Freeman, DNP, the PMHNP program’s director.
“By offering an innovative and rigorous program model, the students will be poised to deliver specialized mental health care in varied settings while addressing staggering needs nationwide. Through strategic partnerships, collaborative outreach and donor support, we are expanding access to advanced nursing education while equipping our graduates with the expertise to provide holistic, patientcentered mental health care. Our PMHNP program is vital in strengthening the health care workforce and improving mental health outcomes in our communities.”
According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, registered nurse practitioners in this field assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients. Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioners may also provide
therapy and prescribe medications for patients facing mental health disorders or substance abuse issues.
The University’s PMHNP program is designed for bachelor’s-prepared nurses. Key features include an online course structure, part- or full-time enrollment options, in-person clinical components and individualized one-onone preceptorships. The program begins every 16 weeks in January, March, July and September.
To learn more about this and other academic programs at the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, visit tesu.edu/nursing
How Donor Support Transforms Military and Veteran Education at TESU
Formore than 30 years, Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSEG) and the PSEG Foundation have been dedicated partners in advancing Thomas Edison State University’s mission, resulting in one of the institution’s most significant corporate collaborations.
With a strong commitment to developing a regional workforce and investing in its communities, the New Jersey-based diversified energy company has established a series of initiatives supporting U.S. military veterans and students, ensuring they have the resources necessary to transition successfully to civilian careers. The company has played a crucial role in expanding TESU’s Operation Vet Success platform – a virtual resource hub designed to assist veterans and active-duty service members in starting a degree program, accessing essential support services and advancing toward degree completion.
This support was further solidified in 2023 when the PSEG Foundation established the PSEG Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund with a generous $100,000 gift. Since then, the scholarship fund has supported nearly 100 U.S. service members enrolled in academic programs at TESU, with an emphasis on veteran scholarship support.
According to Craig Smith, director of Military and Veteran Enrollment and Outreach at TESU, 35% of the University’s 1,656 veteran students enrolled were prevented from fully utilizing their VA benefits to fund their educational goals.
“Their benefits are often exhausted, expire or have been transferred to a family member,” noted Smith. “The PSEG funding effectively eliminates this gap, allowing veterans to continue their degree pursuits.”
The $1,000 in scholarship funding for 2025 graduate Robert Bryant provided
the momentum he needed to conclude a decades-long degree pursuit.
“As a U.S. Navy veteran and community leader, education has always been my top priority,” said Bryant, who earned his B.A. in Liberal Studies from the University in March. “Earning a college degree seemed impossible, but I just kept moving forward. I chose TESU because of its commitment to busy, working adults. I was motivated to finish, but unfortunately, I did not have the available funds, so I had to put my degree pursuit on hold. I remember the day I received an email from TESU announcing the Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund opportunity. It was my chance. I applied for and was awarded the scholarship. With the funding, I’ve finally earned my degree after a 30-year pursuit.”
The TESU Foundation has additional corporate giving partners to support
this initiative. Most recently, NJM established the NJM Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund at TESU.
“The TESU Foundation is grateful to have wonderful partners who believe in the power of education and who share our deep commitment to serving those who serve our country,” said Mary F. Heagley, vice president for Advancement and executive director of the TESU Foundation.
“This funding creates opportunities for our Veteran students to either begin their educational journey or finish their degrees.”
Donor support has not stopped there. TESU Foundation board member and TESU alumnus Rick St. John was inspired to contribute $10,000 to the effort following the lead of his board colleague Ron Gimbel, who established the Ron Gimbel Military and Veteran Endowed Scholarship Fund in 2021. Gimbel’s endowment has grown to over $100,000 since it was created and will be a consistent and permanent source of funding for military and veteran students.
“The meaningful partnership between TESU and PSEG began more than three decades ago and continues to grow,” said Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., president of the University. “The PSEG Foundation’s support of military and veteran students at TESU demonstrates the company’s deep commitment to our nation’s service members and their transition to the workforce. It is an honor to have our institution serve as a leading educational provider for the men and women who serve our country, and this partnership has made that possible.”
Building on Success: TESU Foundation’s Annual Impact Awards
Thomas Edison State University Foundation held its second annual Impact Awards on Oct. 10, 2024, honoring individuals who embody the University’s mission to create innovative and accessible pathways for students and communities. The event raised more than $100,000 to support TESU’s programs and initiatives.
University President Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support, noting, “We are grateful to everyone who shared the 2024 event and very much look forward to the October 2025 Impact Awards. To many of our students, the value of scholarship support and a highquality, low-cost pathway to a degree cannot be overstated. The efforts of the TESU Foundation Board and donor participation inspire us to continuously provide the most innovative and careerrelevant programs possible for our students,” she said.
Bonny Simi, a 2019 TESU graduate and president of Operations at Joby Aviation, received the Distinguished Alumna Award during the 2024 ceremony. Recognized for her leadership in fostering growth and development opportunities in the aviation industry, Simi made higher education more accessible through the JetBlue Scholars program she founded in 2016. Nearly 500 JetBlue employees have fulfilled their dream of a college degree through the program.
Sean Murray, market president for Central/Northern New Jersey and the
Lehigh Valley Region at Fulton Bank, was honored with the Spirit of Edison Community Award for his dedication to strengthening local communities and fostering partnerships that drive economic growth and sustainability. Murray’s nephew, a TESU alumnus who prefers to remain anonymous yet has greatly benefitted from the University’s flexible model, was in attendance.
“Approximately three years into my criminal justice career, I completed my bachelor’s degree online from the comfort of home while helping to raise our son,” said Murray’s nephew, who was promoted shortly after earning his degree. “I was fortunate to find my niche after completing my degree requirements, and now I’m living that dream and supporting my family, too. My uncle Sean inspired and motivated me to take the next step in my career and education. He believed in me and assured me that I would complete my degree requirements before I knew it, that I’d never regret returning and it would open so many doors to opportunities. He was absolutely right.”
Now an annual tradition, the Impact Awards celebrate
exceptional alumni and community leaders and serve as an integral fundraiser for TESU’s mission. This year’s proceeds will help expand the University’s innovative program offerings and provide scholarships that ensure students have access to workforce-relevant programs tailored to their unique needs.
The 2025 Impact Awards will be held on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m. in
Thank you to the TESU Foundation 2024 Impact Awards sponsors:
Platinum Sponsors
Capital Health, Fulton Bank, NJM Insurance Group
Silver Sponsor BAYADA Education
Bronze Sponsors
AllianceBernstein, PNC, PSEG
Awards Underwriters
Bernie and Ann Flynn, Stark & Stark
Wine and Spirits Underwriters
Dr. Ahmed and Nadia Azmy, Hillman Consulting, The Mercadien Group, Sean and Hilary Murray, Princeton Radiology, Willard Alonzo Stanback, P.C.
Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
George A. Pruitt Hall 301 West State St., Trenton, NJ 08608
2025 Impact Award Honorees: PSEG Foundation
Ron Gimbel Chief Financial Officer, Sumitomo Pharma TESU Foundation Board Member
For more information, visit: tesu.edu/impactawards
PEER SUPPORT
BOOSTING RETENTION AND ACHIEVEMENT AT TESU
Tutoring, coaching, and community foster
higher GPAs and degree completion.
Launched in November 2021, TESU’s Peer Support Program provides academic peer coaching and tutoring to undergraduate students – including traditionally underrepresented and academically at-risk students – helping them navigate their degree programs and confidently tackle their coursework.
The program, funded by a $483,000 Opportunity Meets Innovation Grant from OSHE and bolstered by an additional $25,000 each from Citizens Bank and Investors Bank, provides academic support and fosters meaningful student-staff connections.
“The Peer Support Program promotes student success and increases retention and degree completion by employing part-time peer tutors and peer coaches who leverage their expertise and familiarity with the TESU academic model in supporting our adult learners,” said Steven Weinblatt, assistant director of Student Success Initiatives
in the Office of the Vice President and Provost. “Participating students receive one-on-one academic tutoring in English, writing and math, as well as peer coaching, via email or virtual appointments. The program aims to bolster students’ academic skills and decrease common stressors that can hinder degree completion.”
The program’s goals merge with TESU’s vision to “Build Careers, Advance Professions, Empower Lives” and align with New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s goal of achieving 65% of working-age New Jerseyans possessing a post-high school credential by 2025. More than 700 students have participated, representing more than 280 appointments with the program’s staff. The endeavor has spurred an 8.9% increase in the retention rate for all undergraduate students, with historically underrepresented groups benefiting the most. Recent data indicates that the persistence rates of
underrepresented students who used the program’s services were significantly higher than those who did not – with a 16% higher retention rate for Black students and an 11% higher retention rate for Hispanic students.
Master’s program student Suzana Christopher, B.A. ’24, expressed her gratitude for the assistance she received from the Peer Support team, especially while completing her B.A. in Liberal Studies degree in Human Resource Management in 2024. Since English is her second language, she initially found the writing-intensive program overwhelming. Nevertheless, she said that program tutors Sherri Downing Hamm and Alex Shiroma supported her every step of the way, often going above and beyond to assist her with written assignments and even helping retrieve submitted work she thought was lost in her course space.
“The Peer Support Program was a cornerstone of my undergraduate journey. Sherri and Alex helped me with technical issues, navigating the student portal and familiarizing me with online resources,” noted Christopher, who is
now enrolled in TESU’s Master of Science in Human Resource Management (MSHRM) program.
“As an adult learner unfamiliar with TESU’s platforms, everything was new to me. I found digital learning platforms and written assignments challenging in the beginning. Alex helped me through the necessary revisions to my papers and remained committed to helping me improve my writing skills. Sherri was endlessly supportive, kind and always available – even during her off hours. Both introduced me to writing tools that helped me structure my papers while adhering to source citation guidelines, alleviating much of my stress. Sherri even walked me through tracking down an assignment I had uploaded but could no longer locate. I was so relieved that I wanted to hug her. I have three children and multiple responsibilities, but I still earned my B.A. degree at the University within 18 months while maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Both Alex and Sherri are now like family to me.”
Both peer tutors have walked in Christopher’s shoes. Shiroma earned his B.A. in History from TESU in 2022, and Hamm earned her MSHRM in 2024 and her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership degree in 2022.
“Improving student retention, increasing GPAs and helping students like Suzana successfully navigate their online course space is our overarching goal,” said
“THE PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM WAS A CORNERSTONE OF MY UNDERGRADUATE JOURNEY.”
SUZANA CHRISTOPHER, MSHRM STUDENT, B.A. ’24
Jasmeial Jackson, Ed.D., vice provost and chief Student Success and Experience officer in the Office of the Vice President and Provost. “The Peer Support Program empowers and upskills our students, leading to higher degree completion rates. Program staff also provide evening and weekend support to accommodate our students’ lifestyles while fostering a sense of community and human connection in online learning.”
Christopher noted that TESU’s peer support structure made her academic journey possible and urged fellow students to utilize the New Jersey State Library’s platforms and resources, especially ProQuest, a searchable platform containing scholarly journal articles, eBooks, videos and dissertations.
The New Jersey State Library is an affiliate of TESU. Visit njstatelib.org to learn more. For additional information about the Peer Support Program and how it might benefit your degree journey, email the Peer Support Team at peersupport@tesu.edu
The Thomas Edison State University Foundation Board of Directors is a group of dedicated leaders who believe in the transformative power of education. Through their professional expertise, valuable insights, advocacy and philanthropy, they play an essential role in advancing TESU’s mission and supporting its continued success.
Nancy Gloor Chair of the Board Managing Director Technology Goldman Sachs (Ret.)
Steven R. King ’93, ’15 Co-Vice Chair of the Board Managing Partner Tulloch Investments LLC
Kim Kleasen, Ed.D. Co-Vice Chair of the Board Senior Director Organization Change and Communications Johnson & Johnson (Ret.)
Ahmed A. Azmy, Ph.D., AIA, APA President Azmy Architects LLC
Alex Binder Vice President Advanced Care Institute VNA Health Group
Debra D’Arcangelo Nonprofit Professional
Bruce D. Garganio Regional Manager Eastern Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters
Ronald Gimbel Chief Financial Officer Sumitomo-Pharma America
Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. President Thomas Edison State University
Catina Hood Vice President Fulton Bank
James B. Kilgore Managing Partner Winterdale Property Management LLC
Matthew Lamb, Pharm.D., R.Ph. Chief Development Officer, Executive Vice President ITB-MED Biopharmaceuticals
Eric Robert Lear, CPA Managing Partner Lear and Pannepacker LLP
Brian T. Maloney Corporate Consultant
Martin Melilli Market President TD Bank
Deborah Mican, Ph.D., MHA, BSN, RN, CNOR Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer Capital Health System
Strategic Advisor Triad Metals International (Ret.)
Willard Alonzo Stanback, Esq. Principal Willard Alonzo Stanback, P.C.
Jeffrey Stokes ’15
Senior Director - Renewables Engineering & Technical Support PSEG
Michael Toscani, Pharm.D. Research Professor/Fellowship Director
Rutgers Institute for Pharmaceutical Industry Fellowships
Carol Voorhees ’15
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
NJM Insurance Group Inc.
Gratitude to Gloor
Recognizing the Resounding Impact of the Outgoing Foundation Board Chair
As a lifelong learner who has personally experienced the transformative power of education, Nancy Gloor was inspired by TESU’s mission and its ability to break down barriers for adult learners. She joined the TESU Foundation Board in 2017.
Since 2021, Gloor has served as the Foundation Board chair, guiding the organization through pivotal moments, including the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, leadership transitions at the University and the restructuring of the Foundation Board. As a gracious and generous host, she regularly organized opportunities that connected Board members and supporters with TESU’s mission.
“Nancy’s leadership went beyond ensuring that the Foundation met all legal, financial, investment and audit requirements,” said Dr. Kimberlynn Kleasen, who served as Gloor’s vice chair. “She was committed to increasing Board member engagement, empowering us to advocate for TESU, raising the University’s visibility and identifying new funding sources.”
In December 2022, Gloor and her husband, Guy, made a lasting impact by establishing the Glass Hammer STEM Endowed Scholarship Fund. This fund addresses diversity challenges in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It will provide scholarships to underrepresented populations pursuing STEM degrees, breaking down financial barriers and contributing to a more diverse future in these fields.
“As Nancy concludes her term as
Foundation Board chair, I want to extend my sincere thanks for her exceptional leadership, service and dedication to advancing TESU’s mission,” said incoming Board Chair Steven King, ’93, ’15. “Her contributions have been invaluable, and I am grateful that she will continue to serve on the Board and be a key resource as I step into the role of Board Chair in June 2025.”
Gloor reflected on her service as board chair and her confidence in its future.
“My time on the TESU Foundation board has been an amazing, enlightening and educational experience. It has been my pleasure and privilege to serve as Board Chair over the last few years and to witness the dedication and generosity of the Board members and the staff at TESU. Of course, nothing we accomplished would have been possible without our amazing Development team, our Vice Chair Kim Kleasen, and the hard work of the fundraising committees, the Investment and Audit committees and the Board Development committee. Their regular contribution to advancing the mission of the Foundation and the University is often unseen but critically important. I congratulate and support the incoming Board Chair, Steven King,
and look forward to our continued work together in continuing this amazing journey.”
In describing the impact of philanthropy at TESU, Gloor reflected on how gratified she has been to be a part of the institution’s work.
“The funny thing about giving is that it comes back to you in multiples. The joy I have received from being part of the TESU Foundation has greatly exceeded my contributions. In the words of Kathy Calvin, former CEO of the United Nations Foundation, ‘Giving is not just about donating. It is about making a difference.’ And everything about Thomas Edison State University is about making a difference in someone’s life. I thank everyone for allowing me to be part of that mission.”
Four New Members Appointed to TESU Board of Trustees
Four new members have been appointed to the University’s Board of Trustees. The gubernatorial appointments were confirmed by the Senate in February.
Gregory Brewer, of North Carolina, is president and CEO of Right at Home Care and Assistance, where his responsibilities include overseeing budgeting, sales, profit and loss management, accounting, data collection, record maintenance and employment practices. He is also an associate senior consultant with Guttman Development Strategies, where he advises C-suite level and mid-range management employees on management development, executive coaching, organization development and training practices. Additionally, Brewer is a personal and executive coach, trainer and speaker utilizing the John Maxwell Group Team methods. Brewer is a graduate of Thomas Edison State University.
Trenton-resident Diane Campbell, Ed.D., retired as vice president for Student Affairs at Mercer County Community College after 44 years of service. Her extensive board experience includes the Shiloh Community Development Corporation, the United Way of Mercer County and Building ONE New Jersey. She also served as a member and as president of the Trenton Board of
Education. She has experience in online education, having served as the first director of MCCC’s Virtual Campus (now Mercer Online), and was president of the New Jersey Virtual Consortium, a joint effort among the state’s community colleges to provide distance learning.
Marc Citron of Princeton is a partner with Saul Ewing LLP, a Princeton law firm. During his more than 45 years of legal practice, Citron has advised clients ranging from real estate developers, retailers and the hospitality sector to manufacturers and software developers on commercial and industrial projects, including those involving redevelopment and brownfields. He has extensive board experience, including service on the Board of Trustees for Central Jersey Business Organization, Sustainable Jersey and Eden Autism.
Frank Lucchesi of Manahawkin is the director of External Affairs South at PSEG, where he is responsible for developing and implementing strategic outreach and communication plans in support of critical PSEG, PSE&G and PSEG Transmission priorities. He is Commissioner and Vice Chair of the Mercer County Improvement Authority and serves on multiple boards, including Hamilton Area YMCA, Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce, Central Jersey Junior Achievement and the New Jersey State Police Memorial Association.
These appointments underscore the University’s commitment to excellence in governance and its mission to serve the public interest alongside the New Jersey State Library.
New Dean for School of Science and Technology
The University appointed Henry Collier, Ph.D., as the new dean of the School of Science and Technology.
Collier brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education, along with extensive industry expertise in cybersecurity, networking and artificial intelligence.
Collier is an internationally recognized expert in the human firewall, artificial intelligence and networking, having published numerous peer-reviewed articles on these topics. He currently leads a global research initiative
examining the cultural factors that influence susceptibility to cybercrime. Before joining TESU, Collier served as the assistant dean for Online Learning at Marshall University and the director of Technology Programs at Norwich University. He began his academic career at River Valley Community College, where he revitalized the Cisco Networking Academy and managed a National Science Foundation grant to
develop the Cybersecurity & Healthcare IT program.
In addition to his academic achievements, Collier has a distinguished background in industry and military service. He has worked as a telecommunications and IT/cyber specialist, field engineer and technical support manager. He also served six years on active duty in the U.S. Army and currently holds the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 in the Army Reserves after 28 years of service.
Collier holds a Ph.D. in engineering with a concentration in security, along with degrees in managing innovations and information technology, information technology and computer technology.
theThe support of TESU alumni provides a framework for the future success of the University. Through referring friends and family, participating in social media and sharing unique stories, alumni volunteers devoted more than 1,000 hours of their time in 2024 to help advance the mission and vision of TESU. Thank you to all of our alumni volunteers who engaged with the University in 2023-2024.
Meet a TESU Genius: Jermaine Conyers,
As a U.S. Army veteran and TESU alum, Jermaine Conyers understands the importance of dedicating himself to a mission and creating a legacy.
After learning about TESU from fellow service members, Conyers said that he was pleased to discover an accredited university that accepted his academic transfer credits and credit equivalences earned during his military career.
“I avoided wasting valuable time repeating courses I had already taken at other institutions, and I appreciated seeing fellow veterans in many of my courses,” noted Conyers, who earned his B.S. in Technical Studies in 2021 and his M.S. in Healthcare Management in 2023. He is now contemplating doctoral-level studies.
After working as a senior project manager and health systems specialist in a military hospital, he was hired by Leidos in 2023 as a project manager. The U.S.based company specializes in defense, aviation, IT and biomedical research.
M.S. ’23, B.S. ’21
“My master’s degree sets me apart in a competitive job market and helped me secure my current position. Thomas Edison is military-friendly, offering course options that enable military members to earn a degree while managing their busy lives. Earning my degree in my 30s also inspired my family and members of my community to pick up where they may have left off in their degree pursuits,” he shared.
Along the way, Conyers completed TESU’s five-step Genius Program.
“I completed the Genius Program to give back to the University,” he explained. “I want to continue advocating for TESU, its flexibility and its students, many of whom serve our country or work globally.”
The Genius Program’s more than 100 participants support TESU by sharing their experiences on social media, attending TESUsponsored events, donating, referring friends or family and staying connected to the University. As a token of the University’s appreciation, program participants receive a custom TESU Challenge Coin.
To learn more, visit tesu.edu/genius
Alumni and friends of TESU are invited to join the new Genius Program. Simply complete five steps to be eligible for the prize! See complete details at tesu.edu/genius.
Keep Us Posted!
To connect with the Office of Alumni Engagement and fellow TESU alumni, join the conversation on social media: Alumni Facebook Group: tesu.edu/FacebookGroup
Commencement 2025
TESU’s 53rd Annual Commencement ceremony will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 at the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton, N.J. Check out tesu.edu/current-students/commencement for more information.
