Alumni Gather at the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Convention to Connect with the College for Education and Engaged Learning

Montclair State University welcomed Red Hawks to an Alumni Reception as part of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Convention on November 6, 2025. The group gathered at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City for an evening of professional networking, a heartfelt reunion and updates from their alma mater, the College for Education and Engaged Learning at Montclair. 

“We were thrilled to return to Atlantic City for the NJEA Convention and to welcome our incredible alumni educators. The gathering offered a joyful opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, reconnect with one another and honor the dedication that continues to shape our schools and communities. It was a wonderful reminder of the connections we’ve built — and the even stronger ones still ahead,” said Jeanne Marano, associate vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement.

At the Atlantic City Convention Center, the Montclair table was buzzing with energy. Alumni stopped by to celebrate how far they’ve come since graduation and learn about opportunities to reconnect with their alma mater through graduate programs, professional development opportunities and more. Guests also learned about alumni benefits and engagement activities like upcoming events, affinity groups and the digital platform MONTCLAIRconnect. 

There were plenty of fun giveaways, lots of laughter and meaningful moments as familiar faces returned to say hello. Most of all, our team loved telling everyone, “We’re so happy to see you!” It was a warm, spirited reminder of the strength of our community and the lasting impact of our shared roots.

“Attending the NJEA Convention with a table on the floor and interacting with hundreds of participants was exhilarating! But even more exhilarating was meeting and talking with more than 100 alumni at our reception!” said Dean Alfonso. “Look for more next year as the College continues to move onward and upward.”

Montclair’s alumni reception hosted Red Hawks for an evening that strengthened bonds and sparked new connections. Guests who lived in the area or traveled to Atlantic City for the convention caught up with fellow alumni and learned about what’s new and exciting at Montclair. 

Alumni heard updates from the College and about ways to stay connected to the alumni network. Guests shared memories and reconnected with peers who walked similar paths — creating an atmosphere rich with camaraderie and shared Red Hawk pride. The school’s vision incorporates community partnerships to provide students with a locally-rooted experience that emphasizes a commitment to service.  

Dean Alfonso shared information about the newly created CEEL Center Consortium, comprising six centers: 

• The ADP Center for Learning Technologies is a model hub for educational technology, serving faculty, staff, community educators and students.
• The Ben Samuels Children’s Center is a model of excellence in inclusive early care and education. Staff implement best practices in teaching and learning to serve children aged 12 weeks to 5 years old.
• The Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health provides therapy, support and services to benefit the well-being of children and families.
• The Center for Educational Innovation and Strategic Partnerships supports school districts, delivers professional development and facilitates off-site graduate programs to bridge the gaps between educational institutions and local communities.
• The Center for Research and Evaluation on Education and Human Services is committed to “helping people who help people” in the areas of education, public health and human services.
• The Center for Student Success and Educator Excellence offers a comprehensive resource for students at every stage of their academic career.

Joe Bavazzano, director of the ADP Center for Learning Technologies, encourages alumni to get involved in events and activities. “The Center is committed to supporting Montclair alumni educators. Whether you’re sharpening your digital skills, exploring emerging technologies or looking to elevate your creative and professional toolkit, our workshops and resources are here to help you grow,” he said. “Each session is designed to keep you learning, connected and ahead of the curve.”

Here is a lineup of upcoming free events and programming happening throughout the year, open to our educator community:

• Ethics & AI: Navigating Responsibility in the Age of Algorithms on 12/3, 4 – 5 p.m. (Zoom)
• Getting Started with Canva on 12/9, 4 – 5 p.m. (Zoom)
• Canva Masterclass: Advanced Tools & Pro Design Hacks on 12/11, 2 – 3 p.m. (Zoom)
• Connected Classroom: From Tools to Transformation with Google for Education on 12/16, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. (ADP Center for Learning Technologies)

Stay Connected and Learn More

Join our online community on MONTCLAIRconnect to stay connected and explore all the benefits available to you. For more information on how to join, check out our website.

One on the platform, become a member of the “College for Education and Engaged Learning” networking group to connect with other alumni from the College.

To get involved in more alumni activities, contact Nada Rustom, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, rustomn@montclair.edu.