Brookdale Community College Celebrates Diversity and Civic Engagement at the Annual Wilbur Ray Dinner

Brookdale Community College proudly announces the annual Wilbur Ray Scholarship Awards Dinner, on April 5, 2024, a cherished tradition honoring diversity and civic engagement within the Brookdale community. The event, held each spring, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sgt. Wilbur Ray, who was a member of the Brookdale Community College police force and a dedicated advocate for community service in Long Branch.

For over thirty-eight years, the Wilbur Ray Scholarship Program has been a beacon of support for countless students, distributing thousands of dollars in scholarships. These funds not only assist students in their academic pursuits but also serve as a tribute to Sgt. Wilbur Ray’s commitment to public service and community involvement.

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Mr. Jacob L. Jones, Director of the Office of Community & Economic Development/UEZ for the City of Long Branch. Mr. Jones brings a wealth of experience and insight into the importance of community development and engagement.

Additionally, the prestigious Dr. Webster Trammell Community Leadership Award will be presented to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutor Santiago’s unwavering dedication to justice and community empowerment embodies the spirit of Dr. Trammell’s legacy.

The 2024 Wilbur Ray Dinner will also honor the following individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions:

Dr. Jackeline Mejias-Fuertes, Director of the New Jersey Small Business Development Center at Brookdale Community College, for her exemplary leadership in fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Ms. Adriana Medina Gomez, Director of Community Engagement at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, for her tireless efforts in promoting arts accessibility and community involvement.

Dr. Susan Whyman, Social and Cultural Historian and Vice President of the Brookdale Foundation, for her advocacy and sponsorship of the Frank Whyman Scholarship for Immigrant Students at Brookdale.

The Monmouth County Diversity Alliance, Inc., representing Monmouth & Ocean Counties, for their commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community.

The Wilbur Ray Dinner stands as a testament to the power of education, diversity, and civic engagement to transform lives and communities. We invite you to join us in celebrating these remarkable individuals and their contributions to the Brookdale community.

The event will take place on Friday, April 5 at 6:00 p.m. at Jacques Reception Center, 500 Palmer Avenue, Middletown, NJ. Sponsorship opportunities are available; RSVP here and for more information please contact Michelle Stathum, mstathum@brookdalecc.edu.or visit the website.