Brookdale Alum Leads with Purpose: Building the Alliance for Success at Lunch Break

Renee Lehrman’s journey to finding purpose began with a simple yet life-changing step: walking onto Brookdale Community College’s campus. Her mother, a literature professor, instilled a deep respect for education, and Renee felt a persistent desire to live up to that legacy. Unsure of her path but determined to build a meaningful future, she was immediately struck by the warmth and support she encountered at Brookdale. “The kindness I experienced that first day changed everything for me,” she recalls

Renee began her studies in dental assisting, where she discovered her passion for helping others. With the guidance of dedicated professors and determination, she earned dental radiology and assisting certifications. She later participated in the partnership program between Brookdale and UMDNJ (now Rutgers School of Health Professions), which allowed her to build on her Brookdale education and complete advanced training. Through this program, Renee gained valuable experience working with patients and further refined her skills.

Her career flourished as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), where she spent 15 fulfilling years helping transform patients’ smiles and confidence. “The joint program between Brookdale and UMDNJ set me up for success,” Renee says. “It allowed me to learn, grow, and apply my skills in a real-world setting.”

Despite her professional success, Renee reached a turning point during the pandemic. Inspired by her late mother’s dedication to education and community, Renee sought a career that would allow her to give back. This led her to Lunch Break in Red Bank, where she initially worked in the Life Skills Department.

Recognizing her talent and dedication, Renee was asked to take on a larger challenge: revitalizing the Alliance for Success (AFS) program, which faced obstacles in the aftermath of the pandemic. Established in 2021 through a partnership between The Source at Red Bank Regional High School and Lunch Break’s Life Skills Program, AFS was created to empower students during their critical high school years. “I saw the potential of this program and knew it could be something truly impactful,” she recalls

Under Renee’s leadership, the AFS program has flourished. The initiative pairs high school juniors and seniors with mentors who guide them through college and career readiness. Today, the program serves 14 seniors, 34 juniors, and nearly 40 mentors, focusing on providing students with the support they need to succeed.

One of Renee’s favorite success stories involves a student who initially struggled to engage. With the right mentor and consistent support, that student transformed into a high achiever, earning multiple college acceptance offers, including one from a prestigious media program. “Seeing these students believe in themselves and achieve their goals is the most rewarding part of my work,” Renee says.

Brookdale Community College remains a key partner in the AFS program, offering workshops, campus tours, and resources on college readiness, career exploration, academic aid support, mentorship, and FAFSA application support. “Brookdale’s involvement is invaluable,” Renee says. “They help us open doors for these students and show them what’s possible.”

Reflecting on her time at Brookdale, Renee credits the college with giving her the foundation to succeed. “Brookdale gave me the tools, the community, and the confidence to pursue my goals,” she says. “It truly was my start.”

Today, Renee finds purpose and joy in her work at Lunch Break, where she helps students navigate their futures. She’s also focused on expanding the program, including potential dual enrollment opportunities allowing high school students to earn college credits.

When she’s not working, Renee enjoys music, spending time with her nieces and nephews, and volunteering in the local community. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education, community, and resilience. “Brookdale taught me to believe in myself,” Renee says. “Now, I get to help others do the same.”