Celebrating Innovation Leadership Across New Jersey: INNOVATE100 Honors Community College Leaders
New Jersey’s top innovation leaders were recognized at the annual INNOVATE100 celebration at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center. This statewide initiative, led by James Barrood and Innovation+, honors professionals who drive New Jersey’s robust innovation economy across startups, corporations, universities, nonprofits, and government sectors.
Among this year’s honorees are several outstanding leaders from New Jersey’s community colleges, including:
- Michael McDonough, President, Raritan Valley Community College
- Mark McCormick, President, Middlesex College
- Deborah Preston, President, Mercer County Community College
- David Stout, President, Brookdale Community College
- Lovell Pugh-Bassett, President, Camden County College
- Anthony Iacono, President, County College of Morris
- Susan Gaulden, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Passaic County Community College
- Diane Raver, Director, NJ Film Academy, of the NJ Pathways Initiative
The New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) is also proud to celebrate the recognition of its own leadership:
- Dr. Aaron Fichtner, President, New Jersey Council of County Colleges
- Catherine Fruge Starghill, Esq., Vice President, New Jersey Council of County Colleges, and Executive Director, New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development
The INNOVATE100 initiative not only spotlights CEOs and division heads but also elevates rising stars and community catalysts whose vision and collaboration strengthen New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem. The work is supported by key partners, including the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), Rutgers, Nokia Bell Labs, Valley Bank, and Middlesex County.
“At NJBIA, our vision is to see New Jersey reclaim its stature as ‘The Innovation State,’ and the INNOVATE100 honorees exemplify those who are leading the way,” said Michele Siekerka, NJBIA President and CEO.
