New Jersey Black Women’s Collective Leadership Institute celebrates graduation
The New Jersey Black Women’s Collective (NJBWC), in partnership with Mercer County Community College and Rutgers University School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA), proudly announces the Leadership Institute Cohort of 2026 Graduation & Capstone Brunch, celebrating the accomplishments, growth, and leadership journeys of this year’s graduating cohort. The event will take place on:
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Doors Open: 10:00 a.m.
Newark Symphony Hall
1020 Broad Street
Newark, New Jersey 07102
Graduates will present capstone projects developed throughout the Institute’s intensive leadership program. They will be recognized for completing a transformative curriculum focused on leadership, strategic communication, emotional intelligence, mentorship, financial acumen, organizational culture, and executive development.
The celebration will feature keynote remarks from television host, producer, author, and Judge Eboni K. Williams, whose distinguished career and commitment to leadership and advocacy continue to inspire women across industries and communities.
Participants in the program completed 15 intensive sessions led by respected facilitators Melody M. Fogarty and Rita Williams-Bogar, MBA, whose expertise in leadership development, business strategy, organizational growth, and personal empowerment helped shape a meaningful and transformational experience for participants. Through mentorship, guidance, and dynamic instruction, they equipped participants with practical tools to strengthen leadership skills, build confidence, and create lasting professional relationships.
“The Leadership Institute was created not simply to educate, but to elevate,” said Tennille McCoy, MBA, Chair and Co-Founder of the New Jersey Black Women’s Collective Leadership Institute. “Our graduates represent the next generation of visionary leaders who are prepared to lead with purpose, authenticity, excellence, and impact in their communities and professions.”
“As Mercer County Community College continues its commitment to educational excellence and transformative partnerships, we are proud to support initiatives that cultivate leadership and create opportunities for women to grow, thrive, and lead,” said Dr. Deborah Preston, President of Mercer County Community College. “Programs such as the Leadership Institute create spaces where knowledge, mentorship, and purpose intersect to strengthen communities and empower future leaders.”
“Rutgers University School of Public Affairs and Administration is proud to join the New Jersey Black Women’s Collective Leadership Institute in its mission of preparing and empowering emerging leaders,” said Dr. Kaifeng Yang, Dean of the School of Public Affairs and Administration at Rutgers University-Newark. “Partnerships that create opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and meaningful community engagement strengthen not only individual participants, but the broader communities they will go on to serve.”
“We are proud to help launch and support the Rutgers cohort partnership as part of the continued growth of the Leadership Institute,” said Hanifa Barnes, Esq., Co-Chair of the Leadership Institute – North and Architect of the Partnership Initiative with Rutgers University-Newark. “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to leadership development, mentorship, and educational opportunities for women who are committed to making a difference in their professions and communities.”
“The addition of Rutgers University School of Public Affairs and Administration as a partner creates exciting opportunities for participants to engage with leaders, scholars, and professionals who understand the importance of service, leadership, and community impact,” said Kimberly Brooks, Esq., Co-Chair of the Leadership Institute – North and Architect of the Partnership Initiative with Rutgers University-Newark. “We are honored to help build a program that continues to empower and inspire women across New Jersey.”
“The New Jersey Black Women’s Collective Leadership Institute reflects our shared commitment to investing in leadership that transforms lives and communities,” said Taraun Tice McKnight, Esq., Co-Founder of the New Jersey Black Women’s Collective. “These graduates are not simply completing a program; they are stepping into a larger purpose and joining a growing network of leaders committed to creating meaningful and lasting change.”
The Leadership Institute was created to build a pipeline of talented and empowered leaders by creating opportunities for mentorship, professional development, strategic networking, and community engagement. Through carefully curated sessions and access to accomplished speakers, participants gain experiences that extend beyond the classroom and into their personal and professional lives.
The Graduation and Capstone Brunch serves not only as a celebration of achievement but also as a recognition of the continued commitment to advancing leadership and creating spaces where women can thrive and lead boldly.
