NJ Community College Student Leaders Gather at Brookdale Community College for 2026 Student Leadership Summit

The New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) welcomed more than 260 community college student leaders from across the state to Brookdale Community College (BCC) for the 2026 Student Leadership Summit on April 24, 2026. Centered on the theme of Connect. Collaborate. Lead., the summit brought together student leaders in academics, athletics, the arts, student government, and community service for a day of networking and leadership development.  

From the moment students arrived, Collins Arena was filled with school pride as students connected with peers from across New Jersey and celebrated the opportunities community colleges make possible. 

“This summit is about creating an opportunity for students to connect across colleges, learn from one another, and see themselves as leaders right where they are,” said Aaron Fichtner, President of the NJCCC. 

The day opened with remarks from BCC student leader Mairene Cisneros, followed by welcome remarks from BCC President David Stout and NJCCC President Aaron Fichtner. 

The program featured a keynote experience led by Jeff Dess and Lenny Williams of Trill or Not Trill. Through interactive discussion, students explored what it means to be an “influencer” beyond social media, with a focus on leadership, accountability, and authentic connection. 

The pair led the workshop “Building and Keeping a Power Network,” where students learned strategies for strengthening relationships, building confidence in communication, and using their platforms meaningfully. 

“There is no such thing as success without community and collaboration. Strong leaders identify the people around them who challenge them, support them, and help them grow,” shared Jeff Dess of Trill or Not Trill. 

Students also heard from featured speaker John Hart, Chief Operating Officer of the Rescue Mission of Trenton, who reflected on his own journey from community college student (a proud alum of Burlington County College, now known as Rowan College at Burlington County) to nonprofit leader.   

“First lesson, find your motivation, use it to inspire you, to push you, and let it be the thing that keeps you going when things are not so easy. That motivation is so important, for me it was making sure that someone I cared about saw me as a person who I wanted [them] to see me as, a person who’s trying to meet his potential,” said Hart  

The program also included recognition of the 2026 All-New Jersey Academic Team, honoring outstanding students for their academic achievement and leadership. 

One of the most impactful moments of the Summit came during the leadership empowerment session, “I Am Statements: Identity, Voice, and Leadership,” where students shared personal experiences and reflected on the moments that shaped them as leaders. 

Among them was Brookdale Community College student Daniel Ying, who spoke about returning to school as a non-traditional student. “I’m proud of myself for returning to school when I thought it was too late. I decided to take a chance and go back to school, and I’m proud of myself for staying, maintaining a 4.0 GPA, and building a strong support system. You can still succeed and have a happy, fulfilling life.” 

Throughout the day, students participated in networking activities, including a “Leadership Quest” challenge focused on cross-campus connection and collaboration and a Student Story Station, where they shared stories and reflected on their leadership journeys. 

Another highlight of the summit was the high-energy college roll call and mascot stroll, where mascots from campuses across the state celebrated school pride, energized the crowd, and posed for photos with students. 

The alumni panel discussion, “Launch. Lead. Return: The Community College Leadership Journey,” featured professionals who began at New Jersey community colleges and now serve in leadership roles across higher education and student affairs. 

Panelists reflected on resilience, leadership, and the “power of the pivot,” the ability to adapt, grow, and pursue new opportunities. 

“Leadership starts with getting involved, taking chances, and stepping outside your comfort zone,” said Katie Amunson, Director of Athletics, Brookdale Community College.  

The Student Leadership Summit was developed in partnership with the Student Leadership Summit Advisory Group, including Student Affairs leaders and Phi Theta Kappa advisors from eight community colleges, ensuring the program reflected the voices and experiences of today’s students. 

By the end of the summit, one message stood out clearly: leadership starts where you are, and New Jersey’s community college students are ready to lead.