helping-Latinos

At NhN, helping-Latinos, AskProfessorJohn we are dedicated to uplifting and empowering Latino communities through education, resources, and advocacy. Our mission is to create pathways for success by addressing unique challenges and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that strengthens our society. By working together, we aim to provide opportunities, foster inclusion, and ensure that every voice is heard and valued.

                                                                                                                   Ask Professor John

helping-Latinos: Building Bridges for Opportunity and Inclusion

Our Mission
​
helping-Latinos is a dedicated initiative within Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA focused on empowering Hispanic communities through education, workforce development, and inclusive opportunities. Inspired by my experience teaching at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Hispanic Center, this effort embodies our shared commitment to creating pathways for success and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Why We Started

While teaching as an adjunct at FDU’s Hispanic Center, I witnessed firsthand the passion and resilience of Latino students striving to achieve their goals. Their stories and determination sparked the vision for Helping Latinos—a platform that connects resources, mentorship, and community support to help individuals thrive in education, careers, and life. Many of my students wanted to volunteer to help with my efforts for NhNUSA

Student-Driven Collaboration

This effort is not mine alone. Many of my students expressed a strong desire to get involved, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the mission. Together, we aim to create programs that address real needs—such as language support, job readiness, cultural inclusion, and leadership development—while celebrating the rich heritage of the Latino community.
​
What We Do

• Career Mentorship & Networking: Guiding job seekers and professionals toward meaningful opportunities.
• Education Support: Providing tools and resources for academic success.
• Community Engagement: Building partnerships with local organizations to amplify impact.
• Advocacy & Awareness: Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplaces and communities.

Join Us

helping-Latinos is a collaborative movement. Whether you’re a student, professional, or community leader, your voice and actions matter. Together, we can create a future where every Latino has the support and opportunities they deserve.

Improve your English this can be a barrier to your advancement

Amira DeCastro who is a long time volunteer leader with or Fort Lee Library based Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA program. She has also been our key volunteer leader for our Women-helping-Women USA partnership with Women Rights Information Center in Englewood NJ since July 2018, has put together a range of helpful websites to use to practice your English.
​
From: Amira Decastro <[email protected]>
To: John R. Fugazzie <[email protected]>
Sent: Thu, Nov 1, 2018 2:45 pm

Hi John

Please see below a list of free resources to learn and practice English.  Online learning is the best way to immerse yourself in the language. 
​

• https://www.usalearns.org/
• https://www.duolingo.com
• https://www.Youtube.com    ( Just type "English Tutorial Speaking" as keywords) 
• https://www.coursera.org/learn/business  ( mutiple english courses, search for keywords e.g. free english course for business and professional development) 
• https://www.udemy.com/courses/search/  ( look for keywords like free english courses for international business, enterpreneurs etc)
• https://www.usalearns.org/free-online-english-courses  ( Good to prepare for citizenship)
• Local Libraries:  Most libraries offer Rosetta Stone online classes for free and by signing up with the Library Member ID. 
• https://www.worldenglishinstitute.org/
• https://alison.com/courses
• https://www.edx.org/course?subject=Language     (English for work, interviews, business etc)
• https://www.saylor.org/
• https://www.openlearning.com/search/?q=english
• https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/workplace-english
• http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish

Best,
Amira D. Paluskiewicz
[email protected]
​

 additional options to expand it further. Here’s a comprehensive guide combining your list, personal resources, and other reputable sources:

✅ Your Existing List Highlights

• USA Learns – Great for beginners and citizenship prep: https://www.usalearns.org
• Duolingo – Gamified lessons for vocabulary and grammar: https://www.duolingo.com
• YouTube – Search “English Tutorial Speaking” for free video lessons.
• Coursera & Udemy – Free courses for business English and professional development.
• BBC Learning English – Excellent for grammar, listening, and current topics: http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish
• Local Libraries – Many offer Rosetta Stone access for free with a library card.
• World English Institute, Alison, edX, Saylor, FutureLearn, OpenLearning – Structured courses for work and interviews.

List of free resources to learn and practice English.docx.) [List of fr…ce English | Word]

🌐 Additional Free Resources I Found

1. British Council LearnEnglish – Free resources for adults, teens, and kids, including videos, audios, and worksheets.
   Visit British Council [britishcouncil.org]
   
2. Papora – Unlimited live classes with native-level teachers, interactive lessons, and certificates.
   Learn with Papora [papora.com]
   
3. VOA Learning English – News-based lessons for listening and vocabulary practice.
   VOA Learning English [usahello.org]
   
4. Elllo.org – Over 2,500 audio and video lessons for listening practice.
   Elllo [espressoenglish.net]
   
5. FluentU – Learn English through real-world videos like music, news, and vlogs.
   FluentU [fluentu.com]
   
6. TutorSpeak’s Top 10 Free Sites – Includes Duolingo, BBC Learning English, British Council, Coursera, and Memrise.
   TutorSpeak Guide [tutorspeak.com]
   

📚 Specialized Options

• Business English: Coursera’s English for Career Development and Udemy’s free business English courses.
• Interactive Practice: HiNative (ask questions to native speakers), MosaLingua (cognitive science-based learning).
• Podcasts: All Ears English, Real Life Radio, and Business English Pod for listening skills.

Here are several recent articles highlighting the substantial contributions that Latinos are making to the U.S. economy and labor force:

🌎 1. “2025 Official LDC U.S. Latino GDP Report™ – Part One”Source: Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC)
​
Summary:

• The U.S. Latino GDP reached $4 trillion in 2023, equivalent to the fifth-largest economy globally if considered on its own. [latinodono…rative.org], [businesswire.com]
• Between 2015–2023, Latino GDP grew more than twice as fast as the general U.S. economy. [latinodono…rative.org]
• Latinos contributed 78% of all new workers from 2020–2030, and are projected to be 22.4% of the U.S. labor force by 2030.
  🔗 Read the full report [latinodono…rative.org]

📈 2. “2025 U.S. Latino GDP Grows to $4 Trillion; The World’s Fifth‑Largest Economy…”Source: Business Wire

Summary:

• Confirms record-breaking $4 trillion GDP, growing at an average real rate of 4.4%, second only to China among top-ten economies. [businesswire.com]
• Latinos made up 28.3% of total additions to U.S. GDP between 2017–2022. [businesswire.com]
• Drivers: strong labor force participation, entrepreneurship, and rising educational levels.
  🔗 Read the announcement [businesswire.com]

🏛️ 3. “U.S. Latino GDP hits high of $4.1 trillion, marking ‘growth spot’ for the nation”Source: UCLA Newsroom (Apr 10, 2025)

Summary:

• U.S. Latino GDP reached $4.1 trillion in 2023—the fastest-growing among the top 10 global economies since 2010–2023. [newsroom.ucla.edu]
• Though Latinos represent 19.5% of the population, they have driven 30.6% of U.S. GDP growth post-2019.
  🔗 Read the article [newsroom.ucla.edu]

💼 4. “How Latino Workers Are Helping To Fuel America’s Economic Growth”Source: Forbes (Oct 11, 2024)

Summary:

• Latinos constitute 19% of the labor force, with a participation rate of 67.3% vs. the national average of 62.7%. [forbes.com]
• Between 2010–2020, Latinos accounted for 73% of the increase in workforce participation and are expected to bring 78% of new workers by 2030. [forbes.com]
• There are 4.7 million Latino-owned businesses generating over $800 billion in economic activity yearly and employing 3.5 million people.
  🔗 Read on Forbes [forbes.com]

🚀 5. “A Decade of Data Shows Latino Entrepreneurs Growing and Adapting”Source: Stanford Graduate School of Business (Mar 27, 2025)

Summary:

• From 2018–2023, the number of Latino-owned businesses grew by 44%, while white-owned firms slightly declined. [gsb.stanford.edu]
• Revenue from Latino-owned businesses rose 36% over that period, spanning industries from professional services to tech and sustainability.
  🔗 Read the full analysis [gsb.stanford.edu]

These articles shed light on multiple facets of Latino economic impact—from sheer GDP scale and rapid growth to entrepreneurial momentum and workforce vitality,

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​Emir Liguori <[email protected]>     LinkedIn Profile 

I am sharing Emir's project with his permission that he created as his class project for my summer relational leadership class in 2015.  Emir has taught ESL in the FDU Puerta al Futuro program in Dover, and has been taking classes to get his masters degree.

​He took my leadership class and I discussed with him my thoughts on the need for a business level ESL program to help all these masters students that still have a barrier to management in their abilities in English. 

Despite their knowledge and academic accomplishments they are held back from holding manager and higher positions in the companies they work at. He decided to make creating a course to address this need his project.

​
​​helpful Articles

​Healthcare in Latin America: What are consumers looking for?

The state of grocery retail in Latin America

​Three ways McKinsey is partnering to transform education in Latin America

NJCU, Statewide Hispanic Chamber create hub that will connect students to businesses

NJ labor report on Hispanic residents

rp-20_lms_hispanicheritagemo.pdf  Download File

Circana sees Hispanic shoppers driving retail growth
​
​The highest-earning Latinas face the largest wage gaps
​

Latinos-helping-Latinos USA is an all volunteer led a group of facilitator/leaders from the Hispanic community who have established themselves and are working to ​add additional skills and college degrees and credentials to allow them to advance in their careers and to assist them in providing leadership in the community.

This group is a focused/targeted networking meeting group of the internationally successful Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA ( www.nhnusa.org ) meeting and networking group.  

From November 5, 2014 - June 30, 2019 a group was established following the NhNUSA meeting model in partnership with a NGO and University in Madrid Spain. ​85 members landed new jobs as a result of this effort. 

I have found that many of my students both current and former/ alumni are extremely passionate about their culture and heritage and are contributing back to their Hispanic communities through their leadership and volunteerism.   

One former FDU masters graduate alumni of mine, Diana had established and led a Neighbors-helping-Neighbors group in the High School she worked at in Spanish for parents of her high school students who need jobs and career advancement. 
​                                       
I have been inspired by many of my students 800 + students who I have had in classes in the 12 years from 2014-2025.

I have taught at the Hispanic center, helping nurture the desire to advance their community and to give back and help others. The struggles and desire to come to the USA to have a better life or to come here to be educated to return to their country and make and impact. In all my classes and contact with them,      I coach, mentor, advise and support each of them in their pursuit of their dreams and their ability to advance in their careers, and or business ventures. I have learned much from the students also, the passions and struggles to move ahead in their path to their dreams. 

I know first hand that most of my students are incredible people, with character and desire to push aside and work to overcome the many barriers to find a success here in United States of America.

Many have partnered and volunteered to help with many of the community efforts that are important to me also. The helping-Latinos efforts originated at FDU with a focused meeting group chapter of NhNUSA which was originally formed in 2016 by a group of students and alumni.

Group meetings were held, activities planned and educating members on the value of networking and engaging in community efforts.

​

Join our Linkedin Groups 

​Latinos-helping-Latinos USA 

Leadership for Social Change

Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA


Join our facebook Groups  

​Leadership for Social Change

Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA
​
​

​Immigrants are vital to the US agriculture industry, making up roughly half of the nation's farm workforce, with figures around 49% of all agricultural workers being foreign-born as of 2019. Among those working specifically in crop production, the percentage is even higher, reaching about 57% foreign-born in the same year. A significant portion, around 31% of crop workers, are undocumented. 

Key statistics on immigrant agricultural workers:

• Overall Share: 
  In 2019, nearly half (48.9%) of all agricultural workers were foreign-born. 
  
  
• Crop Production: 
  Among workers in crop production, that figure rises to almost 57% foreign-born in 2019. 
  
  
• Undocumented Workers: 
  A substantial portion of the workforce is undocumented, with around 31% of crop production workers being undocumented in 2019. 
  
  


• Major States: 
  Immigrants make up even larger shares of the farm workforce in key agricultural states, such as over 80% in California and over 65% in Florida. 

Why immigrants are crucial to agriculture:

• Labor Shortages: 
  The agricultural sector has ongoing labor shortages and relies on immigrant labor to fill these critical roles. 
  
  


• Seasonal Work: 
  Many immigrant workers arrive through temporary visa programs like the H-2A program, which are designed to bring in workers for seasonal farm labor when domestic workers are unavailable. 
  


• Essential for Food Supply: 
  Immigrants are indispensable for growing fruits, vegetables, and other produce, ensuring food production and helping to reduce reliance on imported food. 


• Immigrant Farmworkers and America's Food Production - 5 Things to ...
  Mar 18, 2021 — 4| The temporary H-2A visa program is important, but it is not enough. The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program ...
  
  FWD.us
  
  
• Immigration and Agriculture
  Aug 16, 2021 — As recently as 2019, almost half—or 48.9 percent—of all agricultural workers were foreign-born and more than one-fourt...
  
  American Immigration Council
  
  
• Agriculture - American Immigration Council
  In 2019, more than half of all hired farmworkers in the United States were immigrants, or roughly 450,000 workers. In many states ...
  
  American Immigration Council
  

Explainer: How crucial is immigration for the US hotel industry?

​In 2023, an estimated three million foreign-born workers were employed in the U.S. hospitality sector, representing 31% of its total workforce. This makes hospitality the sixth-largest industry for employing immigrants in the U.S. Immigrants are particularly concentrated in this sector in major cities and tourism-heavy states like California, Nevada, and Florida. 

Key Statistics: 

• Number of Immigrant Workers: 3 million (as of 2023).
• Share of Hospitality Workforce: 31%.
• Industry Ranking: Hospitality is the sixth-largest U.S. industry for immigrant employment.

Where Immigrants Are Concentrated: 
​

• Urban Centers: 
  Cities like Miami and New York have a high percentage of foreign-born hotel staff, often making up a majority of employees, according to Luxury Link.
• High-Tourism States: 
  States with significant tourism economies and large immigrant populations, such as California (47.7% foreign-born hotel workers), Nevada, Florida, and New York, show a high reliance on foreign-born labor in the hospitality sector.

Role in the Workforce:

• Immigrants fill many essential, labor-intensive jobs within the hospitality industry. 
  
  
• They are crucial to meeting the workforce demands of the industry, which is vital to the U.S. economy. 
• ​

LinkedIn Recommendations as Adjunct Professor in Hispanic Center at Becton College of Arts and Sciences ​at Fairleigh Dickinson University 
  
Nidia Pena 
Director at Little Explorers Learning Center 
March 31, 2022.  
 
I am the CEO at Little Explorers Learning Center. Currently I am pursuing my Master's in Human Resource Administration at Fairleigh Dickinson University I am currently taking Collective Bargaining/Contract Administration class with Professor John R. Fugazzie. 
John R. Fugazzie is extremely dedicated to the concept of education. He feels a strong sense of responsibility to the students in his classes and he tales their success very professionally. I feel that every student in his class react extremely well to his teaching methods because he uses real life scenarios where we all share our experiences, knowledge, and skills. 
Professor John R. Fugazzie always explains his views very concisely and give supporting arguments that are clear and persuasive. 
I am definitely taking more classes with Professor Fugazzie and I recommend him as a very professional, knowledgeable, responsible, and experienced professor. 
 
Mercedes C. Cabrera 
Interim Administrative Assistant at Hackensack Public Schools 
June 10, 2021. 
  
John R. Fugazzie is an extraordinary teacher, coach, leader and inspirational human being. Professor Fugazzie has a deep passion of helping others selflessly and without a doubt will share with you all his knowledge and experience which is an endless treasure for everyone who has had the pleasure to meet him. I have taken several of his classes at FDU and each of them I got relevant information and resources to put into practice into my daily basis such as networking which is a fundamental key in our lives in every way. Due to his professionalism and ethic I highly recommend Professor Fugazzie to new students at FDU and the general audience. 
 
Rosmary Encarnación Mateo 
Financial Aid Advisor at Eastwick College 
May 18, 2021. 
  
Mr. Fugazzie is an amazing professor. He is very professional and his way of teaching knowledge of him is very practical and advanced. I have taken several courses for my master's degree with the professor and the experience has been extraordinary. A beautiful human being and a good professional. 
 
Ximena Carrasco  Program Director -Nonprofit January 30, 2021. 
 
It is fantastic to have Professor John as my instructor of my master’s classes. His professionalism, commitment and support towards others is tremendous. His networking guidance for searching better professional opportunities is of great help. Overall he is a great human being. 
    
Denise Oliveri Business coaching and Professor November 22, 2020. 
 
I have known Professor John for two years. As a professor in my master level classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He taught the class Relational Leadership. John is a highly intelligent, ethical, caring and passionate leader. It was a pleasure for me to be his student. I learned a lot from him. Thanks professor! 
  
Angel Deschamps Plant Manager 
November 21, 2020. 
 
It is a true pleasure for me to write this recommendation for Professor John Fugazzie MBA, you always are very professional, very knowledgeable, helpful and truly care about your profession and your student. I always enjoy having you as professor and I appreciate how approachable you are, always getting the best of us. Thank you for the development, mentoring and all the support. The best teachers teach from the heart, not from the book and you are one of them. I am very lucky to have you as professor and as friend, I would recommend John Fugazzie without hesitation 
 
Yahel Cohen February 20, 2019, 
 
I have known Professor Fugazzie for 4 years. Professor Fugazzie clearly shows concern and interest in his students, going above and beyond to assist them beyond the classroom. He is a true pleasure to work with and someone who is very collaborative and always willing to help. I am a witness to how hard he works for students and with his colleagues. 
 
Joselyn Vicente 
Mental Health, Wellness Education & Community Development January 13, 2019 
 
"It was fantastic to have John as a Master Professor who was a motivated, thoughtful and exceptional human being and teacher. He brought the real world in each of the school projects, and his expertise and experience made the class feels confident. John leads by the example and many of my classmates found his enthusiasm and dedication both inspiring and motivating."  
 
Maria Suntaxi 
Experienced bilingual in Customer Service  April 10, 2018 
 
“Few people have the opportunity to have a lecturer and mentor as Professor John R. Fugazzie. He is a high level professional. I have the pleasure of taking some leadership classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University for almost three years. He is always predisposed to help any student also serve the community. I am really surprised to see the passion that Professor Fugazzie has for collaborating with community entrepreneurship projects. We can visualize his commitment in the different work groups he has in social networks, number of followers and in addition to public events dedicated to society. Through his projects John transmits the faithful conviction that we must return to society what it has given us in a collective, united, collaborative and grateful way. Also, John R. Fugazzie advises us that no matter how tense and demanding society is, we must always see the positive side. As a leader, mentor and educator, John R. Fugazzie has my highest recommendation.” 
 
Dovid Erps  Veteran Keeping this country safe 
 
I have taken John's class in leadership in FDU. I would have to say even though the class was online, he was always available through email or by phone for any questions and guidance with the work when needed. I would highly recommend him as a professor or even a private consultant in any of his professions. 
 
Maria (Mariuxi) Mansfield  
Experienced bilingual in Communications, Marketing and Community Outreach 
 
I have taken three classes with Professor Fugazzie. His classes are not only fun but he provides all kind of tools for you to improve your career. He will tell you like it is and he will always remind you that the "information is power". I cannot be thankful enough to him. He gave me that push I needed to make this happen. 
 
Diana Bermudez 
Career Coach Family and Community Engagement Specialist  
 
John Fugazzie is a great professor. I have taken several of his classes at FDU in the master of administrative science program. I learned a ton of good and usable information. I was able to apply the knowledge acquired at my place of work right away. His lectures are practical and he does not hold anything back. Professor Fugazzie takes the time to review every project and offers important feedback. Through the semester he works hard to get to know his students in an environment that is safe, respectful, and fun. I highly recommend Professor Fugazzie and his classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University. 
 
Emir Liguori  
Coordinator at Paterson BOE  July 5, 2016 
 
Professor John Fugazzie is a highly effective in engaging his class, introducing the course goals and maintaining the group involved throughout. His knowledge in leadership, marketing, social media outlets and business management are outstanding. 
I truly enjoyed his class and I am better prepared to handle a leadership role. Professor Fugazzie is a community leader who encourages us to become involved with our communities as well in areas we feel passionate about. FDU is a better institution with Professor Fugazzie and I'm looking forward to his next class. 
 
Alejandro Delgado  Doctor of Dental Medicine & Master of Administrative Science   December 17, 2015 
 
"Professor Fugazzie is a magnificent instructor, not only does he take care of the academics but he truly cares for the students their learning and success in life. I highly recommend him as a professional and a human being." 
 
Shlomo Ickovitz   JD Candidate at Harvard Law School   December 3, 2014 
 
John was one of my favorite teachers at FDU. I had the pleasure of attending several of John's classes. They were invariably interesting and thought provoking. In addition to just teaching in the classroom, John would utilize social media to improve our studies and augment student interactions. John, with his extensive business background, was able to offer a personal take on many of the economic theories we were learning in class.  
 
Eli Lazar   Student at Fairleigh Dickinson University   November 30, 2014 
 
Its now my sophomore and I have never enjoyed a class so much, while gaining a vast amount of knowledge. Professor Fugazzie gave us an amazing assignment where each one of the students had to research their own section on marketing. We dealt with a real life case where a man named Max, a friend of the professor, is trying to sell art and we helped him with the marketing of the business. We each had to give a presentation on it at the end of the course. The reason why it was so enjoyable was because the research we did had an effect on a person’s life. The experience was amazing! 
 
Avi Newman Student at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus 
October 24, 2014 
 
John is an amazing professor with a lot of experience in business. He has a unique ability in being able to satisfy the courses needs while making it fun while doing so. John has so much experience in countless of fields, he has something intelligent and helpful to say on each subject we brought up in class. I would recommend John for anyone who needs help in their business. John is the ultimate "neighbor helping neighbor." 
 
Abraham Katz   Student at Fairleigh Dickinson Univ.-Metropolitan Campus October 8, 2014 
 
John R. Fugazzie is an exceptional teacher with a great amount of knowledge in the field of marketing. He not only understands and knows the material, but is able to give it over to students in a clear and precise manner. He is also very personable and easy to talk to 
 
Evan (Eliyahu) Greenberg   Client Associate, Merrill Lynch   September 6, 2014 
John has outstanding skills as a professor to teach and help students understand the material on subject. He is a pleasure to speak to and always has some past-experience advice or knowledge to give. 
  
Mark Brezel  Songwriter at Self-employed  August 22, 2014  
John was a fascinating professor as well as a knowledgeable, intelligent and caring individual. I learned so much from John that will no doubt have an everlasting effect on my career in business. I've learned the value of social media, the value of being knowledgeable in so many different areas but most importantly the value of being passionate about whatever it is you are doing. John is a man of true values and integrity. I would be thrilled to hire someone like John for any position he felt he can handle because I know he will do whatever it takes to get the job done. 
 
Corporate Workforce Development and Grants RWJBarnabas Health 
 
Dennis C. Miller 
Nonprofit Executive Search & Consulting | Nonprofit Leadership Coach | Keynote Speaker | Author of Five Books including  
 
John is a fantastic leader both in the classroom and in his work in the numerous communities that he helps. He is extremely bright, personable and compassionate. When I need to contact someone to answer questions about supporting organizations in the community, he is the first person to call - I highly recommend John to any organization needing a little bit of support. He is also a great caring teacher to his students at FDU. A guy who really cares.John is a fantastic leader both in the classroom and in his work in the numerous communities that he helps. He is extremely bright, personable and compassionate. When I need to contact someone to answer questions about supporting organizations in the community, he is the first person to call - I highly recommend John to any organization needing a little bit of support. He is also a great caring teacher to his students at FDU. A guy who really cares. 
 
Mitch Cahn 
President, Unionwear. Textile Reshoring Specialist: Hats, Bags, Masks 
 
I met John Fugazzie when we were both at NJMEP--he as a business development manager, me as both board member and client. I was impressed with John's understanding of workforce development, particularly in manufacturing--and not just the training part of it, but the effort and discipline it would take to for investments in workforce development to pay off. I invited John to join the Newark Workforce Development Board, of which I was Chair at the time, and he participated extensively in our strategic planning sessions, the results of which are still operational today. John was very selfless with his time--something I have seen time and time again. I got to know John well and was very excited to find out that he landed at Barnabas, since there is no firm better than Barnabas health at workforce development. 
 
During his time at Barnabas we stayed in touch and John continued to offer up advice in all sorts of areas he had expertise in--not just workforce development, but also relationship building and community development--even to the point where he offered up great advice on how to reach companies in the health care industry when it became apparent that textile companies in America would be necessary to produce PPE during the PPE shortage when the pandemic first hit. 
 
John is a out of the box thinker who likes to serve his community before he even thinks about himself. I would put him on any board I serve on as his participation, pragmatism, and experience coupled with his creative problem solving would be an asset to any organization. 
  
Aaron Fichtner   
President 
New Jersey Council of County Colleges 
 
John is a committed, innovative leader bringing creative solutions and partnerships to meet the workforce needs of the state’s largest employer. John was instrumental to the establishment of a strong partnership between RWJ Barnabas and the state’s community colleges to expand economic and educational opportunities for the hospital system’s employees. This is a model program that is helping hundreds of employees and strengthening the company’s workforce at the same time, proving that the most effective solutions can have broad and lasting benefits to all.  
 
Patricia Moran, Ph.D. 
President at Castle Grace Services LLC; Formerly Assistant Commissioner NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development May 2, 2022, Patricia managed John R. directly 
 
I've known John for many years, even prior to my time at NJMEP. John is probably the best "connector" I have ever met. He, strategically, can connect people and resources to get to the desired result. He's innovative, which is clearly demonstrated through his "Neighbors helping Neighbors" initiative. He's resourceful and knows who to go to in case he can't figure something out. 
 
Additionally , John has a great sense of humor! He's made me laugh many times when I was stressed out!  I am happy to write this recommendation for John. 
 
Beatriz Baldwin 
Workforce Development Professional 
May 3, 2022 
​ 
John is a leader who helps those around him to reach their fullest potential. John goes out his way to ensure his clients/students/colleagues have the tools necessary to remove barriers to entering/reentering into the workforce. John also has valuable insight and influence in workforce development and education that would be an asset to any organization. 
 
Bill Gillispie 
Client Delivery Partner Microsoft 
Bill managed John R. directly 
April 26, 2022 
 
I have known Johnny for over 10 years and have been impressed with his wiliness to help other people and share his knowledge of the grocery industry, how to write a resume or find a job, true innovation, build a nonprofit and the list goes on and on. He has the name Professor but, in his heart, he wants to help other people succeed and will do what it takes to get that done. 
 
Kean University 
Montclair State University 
New Jersey City University
New Jersey Institute of Technology 
Ramapo College of New Jersey 
Rowan University Rutgers University – Camden, New Brunswick, Newark
Stockton University
The College of New Jersey
Thomas Edison State University
William Paterson University

Garden State Guarantee (GSG)

​The Garden State Guarantee (GSG) is New Jersey's promise to make a college degree more accessible and affordable. By reducing out-of-pocket costs for students and families, New Jersey is limiting the amount of debt that residents must borrow to attend an in-state, public college or university. This program further builds on Governor Phil Murphy's commitment to improving college affordability.

The NJ Community College Consortium Members         https://njccog.org/
Atlantic Cape Community College
Bergen Community College
Brookdale Community College
Camden County College
Essex County College
Hudson County Community College
Mercer County Community College
Middlesex College
County College of Morris
Ocean County College
Passaic County Community College
Raritan Valley Community College
Rowan College at Burlington County
Rowan College of South Jersey
Salem Community College
Sussex County Community College
Union County College
Warren County Community College
Hispanic Center of Excellence
​Business | Career Advancement | Economic | Education
New Jersey | Excelencia in Education
NJ Has Weak System of State Support for Black and Latino College Students — Report
2022 Best Hispanic-Serving Institutions in New Jersey - Niche
Colleges with the Highest Percent of Hispanic Students in ...
Each fall, the efforts of hundreds of committed professionals from across the country culminate in special events presented by Excelencia in Education to showcase what works for Latino student in higher education.  Leading up to our convening in Washington, DC, we will share stories, profile leaders and celebrate our growing community of common cause – accelerating Latino student success in higher education.

What works to improve the success of Latino college students?

For the last 17 years we have answered this question through Examples of Excelencia by working with leaders in higher education and the community who intentionally serve Latino students.
 
Mark September 29 on your calendar for the Celebración de Excelencia to celebrate programs that work for Latino student success, including the 2022 Examples of Excelencia.

It is not enough to enroll Hispanic students.
Accelerating Latino student success requires institutions to go beyond enrollment and show intentionality and impact in SERVING students. Excelencia's Seal of Excelencia certification is a rigorous framework to articulate intentionality and impact in serving Latino students for colleges and universities who share common cause.
 
Hear about the impact of the Seal of Excelencia on Latino students from leaders of the institutions that earned our national certification in 2021.
 
Mark September 30 on your calendar for the national announcement of the institutions earning the 2022 Seal of Excelencia and recertifications.

Excelencia's team Is why Excelencia works.

Learn more about our team, their commitment to cause, and why they choose to work at Excelencia.
Jennifer Gomez-Chavez - Vice President for Institutional Engagement
Matt Cuozzo - Strategic Partnership Manager
Andrea Osorio - Institutional Practices Manager
Cynthia Sánchez - Institutional Practices Manager

School                                                                               % Hispanic
Hudson County Community College             Jersey City, NJ                         56.6%
Passaic County Community College               Paterson, NJ                            54.1%
Somerset Christian College                                                                       35.6%
Berkeley College Woodland Park                 Woodland Park, NJ                   34.5%
Union County College                                Cranford, NJ                           34.5%
Middlesex County College                           Edison, NJ                              31.9%
Cumberland County College                         Vineland, NJ                           30.5%F
Felician College                                          Lodi, NJ                                  27.8%
Kean University                                          Elizabeth, NJ                          27.1%R
Rutgers University Newark                           Newark, NJ                             27.1%
William Paterson University of New Jersey     Wayne, NJ                              27.3%
Bergen Community College                           Paramus, NJ                           26.3%
Bloomfield College                                      Bloomfield, NJ                       26.5%
Essex County College                                   Newark, NJ                            25.1%
Montclair State University                            Montclair, NJ                          25.4%N
New Jersey Institute of Technology               Newark, NJ                            22.1%S
College of Saint Elizabeth                             Morristown, NJ                       21.3%


https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2022/08/12/secretary-cardona-calls-change-higher-ed
Secretary Cardona calls for change in higher ed

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona has a demand: "We need a culture change in higher education now." In a speech made at a conference attended by university and college presidents and other leaders in higher education on Thursday, Cardona said that elite rankings are a "joke" and that more attention needs to be focused on the institutions that serve the nation's less-affluent students.
www.insidehighered.com

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html?keywords=education 

https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/during-%E2%80%98raise-bar%E2%80%99-summit-education-department-announces-college-completion-fund-competition-support-postsecondary-student-success

During ‘Raise the B.A.R.’ Summit, Education Department Announces College Completion Fund Competition to Support Postsecondary Student Success | U.S. Department of Education - ed.gov
8.12.22 - Today, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) announced the availability of $5 million in funds to support a new College Completion Fund for Postsecondary Student Success.
www.ed.gov

​Please see the link below to the dashboard managed by the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE). You will see costs for all of higher education including community colleges, independent public universities, independent proprietary schools, independent religions schools and senior public institutions.

​At the top of the dashboard, you will see the average tuition and fees across the 18 community colleges from 2016-17 academic year through the present. In addition, the dashboard also show’s the percentage increase in costs between years.  

To observe the costs at individual institutions, visit the section towards the bottom of the page labeled “Select a Comparison Institutions using this filter” and select the drop down menu under institution name. Please note that this list includes all institution types listed in the paragraph above.

You will need to select each college to understand how its costs compare with the statewide average.   https://www.state.nj.us/highereducation/dashboard-tution.shtml
In the coming decades, the success of the US economy will become increasingly tied to the success of Latino Americans.

With 58 million Latinos in the US today and projections of population growth in the years to come, Latino workers, consumers, and business owners will shape the present and future of the US economy. How can we secure economic stability and mobility for Latino workers, families, and communities?

What policies, practices, or strategies could help to improve job quality, increase skills and access to high-quality jobs, and expand business ownership opportunities?

​The Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program (EOP) and the Latinos and Society Program (AILAS) invite you to watch 

“Drivers of Opportunity: How Will Latinos Shape the Future of the American Dream?”
​Drivers of Opportunity: How Will Latinos Shape the Future of the American Dream?
Hispanics will make up nearly 20 percent of the labor force in 2024

Community Colleges programs
You can be out of county and they have ;provided Virtual Classes online, just let Gina know you are one of my students or former students.  

We would have set up classes – normally we do 3 hours 2 nights a week.  Depending on the number of students in the class it could be a mixed level (i.e. high beginners and low intermediate) or it could be a single level.  

We use Webex and integrate Burlington English which is an interactive website into the program as well.  
The students are required to have their video on and participate.  
We explain they cannot be driving, cooking or feeding the family, or working – it is dedicated class time.
 
We can offer to all of NJ but we can’t travel to other counties.  They however can come to us.  And we do offer virtual though.
 
Best wishes,
Gina

Good afternoon,

The Adult Education, Civics, & Workforce Preparation program is open to all residents of Ocean County ages 16 and above.  There is NO program cost, NO cost for services, NO cost to take the Hi-set exam.  Everything will be provided free through the Title II grant, OCC, and the OCC foundation.   There is a required orientation for all those interested in the program. 

Here is the link for the program https://www.ocean.edu/programs-and-courses/adult-education-civics-workforce-preparation-program-aecwp. 
 
Attached you will find the Adult Education, Civics, & Workforce Preparation summer orientation flyers.  Please share with your contacts and display for the community to see.    If you would like to learn more about the AECWP program, please email [email protected] or reach out to myself please contact me at any time.
 
Best wishes,
Gina
 
Gina V. Opauski, MSW
Director, Community & Workforce Development
Workforce & Professional Education Dept.
732-255-0400, ext. 2032
                      
//Go.ocean.edu/wpeprograms

​
SEPTEMBER 12, 2018  |  GABBY WEISS

Hispanic Heritage Month, officially founded in 1968, occurs each year from September 15 to October 15, a period which includes the anniversary of independence of eight Latin American countries. During National Hispanic Heritage Month in the U.S., we recognize the contributions made by and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States, and celebrate their heritage and culture. Across America, Hispanic and Latino organizations are leading the way in every realm, including advocacy, education, healthcare, and social services. Here are just a few of our favorite organizations, which deserve your support this month and all year-round!

1. Hispanic Heritage Foundation

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is an award-winning nonprofit that identifies, inspires, prepares and positions Latino leaders in the classroom, community and workforce to meet America’s priorities. Through HHF’s award-winning LOFT leadership and workforce development program, tens of thousands of students and young professionals are connected to each other and to mentors and resources.

2. NALEO

NALEO Educational Fund is the nation’s leading non-profit, non-partisan organization that facilitates full Latino participation in the American political process, from citizenship to public service. Founded in 1981, NALEO Educational Fund achieves its mission through integrated strategies that include increasing the effectiveness of Latino policymakers, mobilizing the Latino community to engage in civic life and promoting policies that advance Latino political engagement. They provide national leadership on key issues that affect Latino participation in our political process, including immigration and naturalization, voting rights, election reform, the Census and the appointment of qualified Latinos to top executive and judicial positions.

3. Grassroots Leadership

Grassroots Leadership works for a more just society where prison profiteering, mass incarceration, deportation and criminalization are things of the past. As the for-profit prison industry has increasingly relied on immigration enforcement and detention to drive their profits, Grassroots Leadership has responded by increasing our scrutiny of for-profit immigrant detention and its impact on families and communities. Grassroots Leadership organizes communities to fight back against detention and deportation both in Texas and nationally.

4. Voto Latino

Voto Latino is a pioneering civic media organization that seeks to transform America by recognizing Latinos’ innate leadership.Their work focuses on building a pipeline meant to serve and empower our community, consisting of three parts: civic engagement, issue advocacy, and leadership development. Through  innovative digital campaigns, pop culture, and grassroots voices, they provide culturally relevant programs that engage, educate and empower Latinos to be agents of change, to build a stronger and more inclusive democracy.

5. Latino Victory

The Latino Victory Fund is a progressive political action committee working to grow Latino political power by increasing Latino representation at every level of government. From school boards, to the Senate, to the White House, Latino Victory identifies, recruits, and develops candidates for public office while building a permanent base of Latino donors to support them. Latino Victory engages Latino voters and donors—in addition to developing Latino leaders—in order to elevate and advance values that are important to our communities. Latino Victory is developing a pipeline of Latino leaders who will fight for the issues that matter.
Read our full profile of the Latino Victory Project and how they use technology to run winning campaigns here.
​
6. Unidos US

Since 1968, UnidosUS—formerly known as National Council of La Raza—has remained a trusted, nonpartisan voice for Latinos. They serve the Hispanic community through  research, policy analysis, and state and national advocacy efforts, as well as program work in communities nationwide. They partner with a national network of nearly 300 Affiliates across the country to serve millions of Latinos in the areas of civic engagement, civil rights and immigration, education, workforce and the economy, health, and housing.

7. Chicanos Por La Causa

Chicanos Por La Causa was founded in 1969 to confront oppression facing Latinos in Phoenix, Arizona as part of the movement led by Cesar Chavez. Now, they are one of the largest Hispanic nonprofits in the country, promoting stronger and healthier communities throughout the southwestern United States. Their vibrant community presence spans a comprehensive range of bilingual and bi-cultural services in Health & Human Services, Housing, Education, and Economic Development.

8. United We Dream

For undocumented immigrants living in the U.S., facing discrimination can lead to living in fear. United We Dream works to transform that fear into finding a voice. They empower immigrant youth to develop their leadership, their organizing skills, and to develop their own campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels to fight for justice and dignity for immigrants and all people.

9. Hispanic Scholarship Fund

As the nation's largest not-for-profit organization supporting Hispanic American higher education, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund empowers Latino families with the knowledge and resources to successfully complete a higher education, while providing scholarships and support services to as many exceptional Hispanic American students as possible. HSF also seeks to give its Scholars all the tools they need to do well in their course work, graduate, enter a profession, excel, help lead our nation going forward, and mentor the generations to come.

10. National Alliance for Hispanic Health

The National Alliance for Hispanic Health is the premier science-based and community-driven organization that focuses on the best health for all. Community-based members provide services to more than 15 million Hispanics throughout the U.S. every year and national organization members provide services to more than 100 million people annually. They work to ensure that health incorporates the best of science, culture, and community through listening to the individual, investing in leading community based organizations, working with national partners, examining and improving the resources and systems available, and designing solutions to make health a part of each person’s life.

11. Hispanic Institute
​The Hispanic Institute is a nonprofit organization that provides an effective education forum for an informed and empowered Hispanic America. The Hispanic Institute manages several ongoing projects, including the study of Hispanic economic contributions, media monitoring, consumer fraud protection, citizenship education, and technology and telecommunication research.
This Hispanic Heritage month, we're proud to support the campaign efforts of organizations serving the Hispanic and Latino communities every day. 

Pew Research Centerwww.pewresearch.org/topic/race-ethnicity/racial-ethnic-groups/hispanics-latinos/hispanic-latino-voters/

Summer of 2015 class project raised $1,667 for Neighbors-helping-Neighbors USA. 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fdu-masters-class-project-donates-usa-john-r-fugazzie-mba/

New Jersey Towns with majority Hispanic populations are:
Places with over 100,000 people

• Elizabeth (59.5%)
• Paterson (57.6%)

Places with between 25,000 and 100,000 people

• North Bergen (68.4%)
• Passaic (71.0%)
• Perth Amboy (78.1%)
• Union City (84.7%)
• West New York (78.1%)

Places with between 10,000 and 25,000 people

• Dover (69.4%)
• Fairview (54.6%)
• Guttenberg (64.8%)

Places with fewer than 10,000 people

• East Newark (61.4%)
• Prospect Park (52.1%)
• Victory Gardens (63.0%)

Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development 

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development is designed to empower the Hispanic community of New Jersey by administering grant dollars and providing other assistance to Hispanic community-based organizations, creating training and employment opportunities for Hispanic college interns, conducting and supporting research on New Jersey's Hispanic community, and ensuring Hispanic access to services and programs.


16 percent of the US population are Hispanics; it means that there are about 50.5 million Hispanics in this country, plus 4 million residents of Puerto Rico. In total, there are approximately 54 million of Latinos in The United States; where 17.1 million of that population are 17 years old or younger, also they are enrolling in kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school programs in American public schools. It suggests the importance of educating the Latino community. Therefore, Latino success in the Job Market and Education plays an important role in the American Economy. According to the recent Census Bureau and PEW Research Center, Latinos between 18 to 24 years old, 79% had completed High school. ​
​Hispanic-Americans are one of the fastest growing population groups in America.  At more than 55 million strong, Hispanic-Americans represent 17% of the U.S. population, play an integral role in the U.S. economy, and remain critical to America’s ability to thrive as a nation. There are more than 3.3 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the U.S. and that number is growing at a rate 15 times faster than the general population. 
​


​
THE HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
​
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) was established in 1986 with a founding membership of eighteen institutions. Because of HACU’s exemplary leadership on behalf of the nation’s youngest and fastest-growing population, the Association rapidly grew in numbers and national impact.

Today, HACU represents more than 470 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin America, and Spain. Although our member institutions in the U.S. represent only 10% of all higher education institutions nationwide, together they are home to more than two-thirds of all Hispanic college students. HACU is the only national educational association that represents Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).
In 1992, HACU led the effort to convince Congress to formally recognize campuses with high Hispanic enrollment as federally designated HSIs and to begin targeting federal appropriations to those campuses.  (Click here for more information about the differences between HACU's definition of HSIs and the federal definition of HSIs under Title V of the Higher Education Act.)

Soon after, HACU and its allies were instrumental in convincing Congress to appropriate money specifically for HSIs. For the first time ever, HSIs were granted $12 million in 1995 from federal resources.  Since then, funding has increased significantly because of HACU’s persistent advocacy. In 2017, for example, $107.8 million were appropriated for the HSI undergraduate program under Title V of the Higher Education Act. HACU has recommended $175 million be appropriated for fiscal year 2018.

Our nation's economic and social success rests on the level of skills and knowledge attained by Hispanics, now the nation's largest minority population. Education is indisputably the key. HACU is committed to Hispanic success in education, from kindergarten through graduate school and into the work force of tomorrow. Everyone has a stake in HACU’s crucial goals: to promote the development of member colleges and universities; to improve access to and the quality of postsecondary educational opportunities for Hispanic students; and to meet the needs of business, industry and government through the development and sharing of resources, information and expertise. 

With the help of HACU’s Office of Government Relations in Washington, D.C., HACU maintains more than 30 formal Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Partnership Agreements with federal agencies, offices, and business organizations. HACU also provides assistance and outreach to HSIs by hosting technical assistance workshops throughout the country on available federal program grants and other resources. The HACU National Internship Program also operates out of the Washington, DC, office and places more than 450 student interns each year with corporations and federal agencies in Washington and field offices around the country. 

HACU's Western Regional Office in Sacramento, California, offers support for state level advocacy and program work in the western United States.  Additional regional offices are being planned for the future.

HACU’s Office of Policy Analysis and Information conducts policy analyses and research on issues affecting Hispanic higher educational success and HSIs. The Office of Student Services manages the Corporate Internship program, the Annual Conference Student Track, the HACU Scholarship program, and several capacity-building partnerships.

HACU’s conferences and special events each year provide a vital platform for advocacy, information, collaboration, and recognition. These events include the annual Capitol Forum each spring in Washington, D.C., and HACU’s Annual Conferences. The 23rd Annual Capitol Forum is scheduled for April 9-10, 2018. HACU's 31st Annual Conference, "Championing Hispanic Higher Education Success: Driving America's Prosperity," will be October 28-30, 2017 in San Diego, CA.  Student participation, especially at the Annual Conference, has been an important new dimension in recent years. HACU's 12th Biennial International Conference was held March 29-31, 2017 in San José, Costa Rica.

Thousands of young Hispanics benefit from HACU with internships, scholarships, college retention and advancement programs, precollegiate support, and career development opportunities and programs.

We truly are the champions of Hispanic success in higher education.   Visit us at www.hacu.net.
New Jersey -  Hispanic-Serving Institutions
Bergen Community College   http://www.bergen.edu      
Bloomfield College     http://www.bloomfield.edu
Fairleigh Dickinson University    http://www.fdu.edu
Felician University    http://www.felician.edu
Hudson County Community College   http://www.hccc.edu
Middlesex County College   http://www.middlesexcc.edu
New Jersey City University    http://www.njcu.edu
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Newark Campus   www.newark.rutgers.edu
Saint Peter's University   http://www.saintpeters.edu
Union County College  http://www.ucc.edu 
William Paterson University    http://www.wpunj.edu    
New York - Hispanic-Serving Institution
Boricua College  http://www.boricuacollege.edu
Borough of Manhattan Community College, CUNY  http://www.bmcc.cuny.edu
Bronx Community College, CUNY http://www.bcc.cuny.edu
College of Mount Saint Vincent http://www.mountsaintvincent.edu
Dominican College http://www.dc.edu
Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College, CUNY http://www.hostos.cuny.edu
John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY - http://www.jjay.cuny.edu
Lehman College, CUNY - http://www.lehman.cuny.edu
Mercy College http://www.mercy.edu
New York City College of Technology, CUNY - http://www.citytech.cuny.edu
Queens College, CUNY - http://www.qc.cuny.edu
Stella and Charles Guttman Community College, CUNY - http://www.guttman.cuny.edu
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology - http://www.vaughn.edu

Professor John R. Fugazzie

​JohnRFugazzie.com
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