Working in education is never easy, but doing so now is especially troublesome. Schools at all levels, along with research institutions and other nonprofit organizations, are under budgetary pressure and facing a barrage of policy changes that call into question decades of decisions and actions. In short, the challenges are immense for teachers, researchers, administrators and fundraisers. And there’s no sign that the environment will improve any time soon.

Anyone who cares about education, particularly public education, should be alarmed by some of these developments. And business owners and executives should be perhaps even more concerned. Hiring and retaining staff with the necessary skills and knowledge is always difficult and it may get even tougher in the months and years ahead.

New Jerseyans are rightly proud of the education system in this state. Though not without its own problems, schools at all levels here consistently attract high-achieving students who turn into high-quality graduates. The education and skill levels of New Jersey’s workforce is constantly cited as one of the main attractions for businesses to move here, remain here and expand here.

But this state has never been immune from the forces that threaten to erode the quality of instruction and research. And while New Jersey institutions have thus far avoided the fate that has befallen similar entities around the country, the state’s luck could run out at any time.

If – when – that happens, the leaders profiled below will be tasked with guiding their staffs, students, and organizations through the turmoil as well as continuing the tradition of excellence residents have come to expect. That job won’t be easy, but as you read about our Power List honorees, you should feel more confident that the state’s future remains bright, despite the immediate storms.

By all means let us know if you feel that way or if you think we missed some individuals deserving of recognition. As always, the profiles appear in alphabetical order.

– Jeffrey Kanige
Email: [email protected]

Methodology

The Power Lists are compiled by the NJBIZ editorial staff based on our reporting throughout the past year with input from experts in a variety of fields and recommendations from our readers. The staff looks for people who have gained public attention – and perhaps acclaim – for their professional accomplishments and public service. Each list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business. Honorees are not necessarily better at their jobs than others in their profession, but they have contributed meaningfully to the advancement of the public interest through their work and/or community service.

Meet the 2025 honorees below: