The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey recently honored Burlington County College for its efforts to strengthen New Jersey through public and private partnerships.
“Burlington County College has been an outstanding partner with us on meaningful projects that have benefitted students and businesses throughout New Jersey,” said John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, president and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey. “It is an honor to work with Burlington County College; we value the partnership and their support of the mission of the AACCNJ.”
The chamber and BCC have partnered on several literacy, student-success and business development initiatives in recent years. Most notably, they teamed with Rochelle Hendricks, the New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education, and the nonprofit organization, First Book, to deliver 43,000 books to children in need throughout the community last spring.
“Burlington County College is proud to partner with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and humbled to receive this award,” BCC Interim President Dr. David Spang said. “Partnerships between the public and private sector create many benefits for students and our communities. We strive to align ourselves with partners, such as the chamber, who are dedicated to excellent projects that leave a lasting impact.”
In addition to First Book, BCC and the chamber have partnered on workshops to assist local businesses and a lecture series aimed at motivating students to complete college. Harmon, who also serves as chairman of the National Black Chamber of Commerce, delivered the commencement address at the college’s graduation ceremony in May, providing an example of an exceptional career that started at a community college.
“Our county benefits enormously when Burlington County College and the African American Chamber of Commerce work together,” Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio said. “I applaud both institutions for their vision and effort to help children read, students learn and businesses succeed. Their collaboration is a great support to the county’s Workforce Development Initiative.”
