By Arthur C. Horn
Back in March, during the NJEA Higher Education conference, the recognition ceremony for the year-long Local Leadership Development Program (LLDP) brought raucous energy and red-carpet vibes.
The LLDP is a multiple-session program that includes in-person and virtual trainings. The program was created to provide those in higher education with the opportunity to continue to learn and develop new skills within the structures of NJEA and the various local associations.
During that Friday evening, the second LLDP cohort gathered, along with others participating in the conference that weekend, to celebrate the completion of their yearlong learning experience. The celebration was kicked off by keynote speaker, N.J. Assemblyperson Cody D. Miller.
Miller provided everyone with words of inspiration and encouragement. The tone for the rest of the evening was set.
After the keynote presentation was completed, up next was the certificate recognition for the individuals in the cohort that completed the LLDP. This part of the program was led by NJEA Vice President and Higher Education Liaison, Petal Robertson. Robertson brought the energy as each participant was called up to the stage. As each of the eleven individuals were called, those in the audience rolled out what felt like the “red carpet” treatment with ruckus cheers. The room was energized and that energy was felt throughout the entire weekend.
Personally speaking, my commitment to participate in this year-long program was well worth it. In addition to “leveling up” my skills and knowledge, I was able to experience the togetherness and sense of belonging of being in the cohort. I not only spent this experience among accomplished professionals, but also alongside genuinely great people.
I want to shout out the “great people” of the second LLDP:
Michelle Altieri (Morris), Paul Crowley (Union), Blanca Filian (Essex), John Findura (Bergen), Ledawn Hall (Essex), Tiffany Harris-Greene (Burlington), Arthur C. Horn (Cumberland), Angela McKinney (Essex), Jessica Peacock (Bergen), Phyllis Romaine Walker (Essex) and Daniel Ward (Ocean).
On behalf of the 2025-26 LLDP cohort, special thanks must also go to the NJEA Higher Education “dream team” who made this possible: Marcia Kleniz (field representative for Higher Education), Maury Koffman (field representative for Higher Education) and Karen “Skip” Perry (administrative assistant).
Thank you all for the vision of creating LLDP and for the time and energy it took to make this experience happen.
Be on the lookout for the next Local Leadership Development Program. Information for LLDP 2027-28 cohort will be coming your way soon.
Arthur C. Horn is an assistant professor at Rowan College of South Jersey.