Galloway, N.J. – As the Cannabis industry continues to grow in New Jersey, so do the education and resources that support it. Robert Mejia, adjunct professor of Cannabis Studies at Stockton University, was named the inaugural winner of Excellence in Education by NJ Cannabis Insider for his educational contributions to this ever-evolving enterprise. 

Mejia, who was formally recognized at the NJ Cannabis Insider Awards Gala on June 9, said, “I pride myself on connecting with and helping Stockton University students who want to get into the cannabis industry. And this award is a wonderful token of recognition of the hard work that goes into education.”

At Stockton, Mejia teaches the Introduction to Medical Cannabis, Social Justice & Cannabis, and Preparation for Cannabis Internship classes and plays a lead role in the Cannabis & Hemp Research Initiative (CHRIS). CHRIS was founded in April 2021 to conduct hemp cultivation research, offer non-medical research opportunities to businesses, develop cannabis and hemp educational materials, host educational events, and eventually offer hemp and cannabis testing services. These activities will positively impact local and national businesses. Above all, the goal of CHRIS is to further leverage Stockton’s commitment to hemp and cannabis education for students and like-minded partners.

"Cannabis education is the cornerstone of a safe, compliant, opportunity-rich cannabis industry and I'm proud to do my part as a Stockton cannabis instructor,” Mejia said. “We are building a smart and educated cannabis industry in New Jersey and I have high hopes for the future."

Cannabis offerings at Stockton include a minor in Cannabis Studies, the Cannabis & Hemp Research Initiative (CHRIS) and an online Cannabis Studies Certificate.

Reported by Mandee McCullough

Photos- Amanda Brown | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com