Brookdale’s Board of Trustees: Celebrating Leadership, Embracing the Future

At Brookdale Community College’s November meeting, the Board of Trustees installed a new chapter of leadership with the election of Trustee Latonya Brennan as Chair for the 2024-2025 year, while honoring the significant achievements of the outgoing Chair, Paul Crupi. This annual reorganization meeting, conducted according to the statutes and bylaws of Brookdale Community College, marks an important moment for the institution as it continues its mission of serving students and the community with strength and purpose.

During his two-year tenure as Chair, Trustee Paul Crupi demonstrated exceptional leadership, leaving a lasting impact on Brookdale. Appointed to the Board by the Monmouth County Commissioners, Crupi brought a decade of dedication and expertise to his role. His career as a lobbyist gave the Board a keen understanding of the policymaking process, fostering collaborative partnerships that advanced the college’s mission.

Under his leadership, Brookdale launched transformative initiatives, including the Achieve Academy for adults with autism, the Caroline Huber Holistic Wellness Center, and a key collaborative agreement with the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office to enhance public safety. Crupi’s tenure also saw the opening of Brookdale’s $2.5 million Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity Education and the state-of-the-art Esports Arena, which quickly gained national recognition.

Crupi’s commitment to Brookdale’s mission and his ability to build strong leadership among Board members has solidified Brookdale’s status as the top community college in New Jersey for three consecutive years on Niche’s Best Community College list and Best Community Colleges.com.

Trustee Brennan, a long-serving member of the Board, steps into the role of Chair with a wealth of experience and a clear vision for Brookdale’s continued success.

Reflecting on her new role, Brennan addressed her colleagues with a message of unity and purpose: “While we all approach things from different angles, we make sound decisions through constructive dialogue and our shared commitment to Brookdale. Our collective commitment to our mission and goals unites us, and it is important always to foster an environment of respect, trust, and shared purpose.”

Her work has marked Brennan’s tenure on the Board as Chair of the Finance and Facilities Committee, where she helped maintain the college’s strong financial position and oversaw numerous capital projects. Her experience as part of the Executive Committee and her active role in the successful search for Brookdale’s current President have equipped her to lead with balance and insight.

“As a long-time insurance executive, I have always helped clients make objective decisions based on data and diverse perspectives. I bring that same approach to leading this Board, ensuring we build on our collective strengths to achieve the best outcomes for Brookdale students,” Brennan stated.

Brennan emphasized two strategic priorities for the year ahead: advancing the Strategic Plan 2025, which includes goals for academic success, resource enhancement, student outcomes, and preparing for the Middle States accreditation process. “With your support, I will ensure the college’s mission is fulfilled while maintaining fiscal responsibility for all families of Monmouth County.”

Trustee Barbara Horl was re-elected to serve as Vice Chair, bringing a proven track record of leadership and a steadfast commitment to this role. Horl’s leadership and commitment to student success have been instrumental in advancing Brookdale’s vision. Horl also demonstrates a deep commitment to higher education, serving on the State Public Policy and Legislative Committee and the Federal Legislative and Public Policy Committee of the Association of Community College Trustees.

Chair Brennan announced the members of the Executive Committee, a vital group that collaborates with the college President and develops the Board’s monthly agenda. The committee also plays a critical role in acting on behalf of the Board during emergencies when a full Board meeting is not feasible.

The new Executive Committee members are:

• Chair: Latonya Brennan
• Vice Chair: Barbara Horl
• Chair of Finance & Facilities: James W. McCracken
• Appointments: Dr. Lester W. Richens and Dyese Davis

Trustee McCracken and Trustee Richens join the Executive Committee for the first time, while Trustee Davis, who previously served as Chair of the Governance Committee, returns with her deep institutional knowledge and leadership experience.

The transition of leadership at Brookdale Community College reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to stability, collaboration, and progress. With a diverse and experienced leadership team, the Board of Trustees is well-positioned to guide Brookdale toward continued achievement and growth.

President David M. Stout shared his optimism for the future under the new leadership: “The Board of Trustees has long been an essential partner in advancing Brookdale’s mission. I am confident that under Chair Brennan’s leadership, and with the support of all the Board members, we will continue to make meaningful progress toward our goals, ensuring student success and strengthening our community.”

In closing remarks, Chair Brennan underscored the Board’s shared purpose: “Together, we will leverage our different perspectives as assets to achieve the greatest outcomes for Brookdale and our students. I thank each of you for your dedication and look forward to a successful year ahead.”