Galloway, N.J. — The Council of Black Faculty and Staff at Stockton University commemorated four decades of community at its 40th Annual Scholarship Award Dinner and Dance on Nov. 14.  

The event, held at The Carriage House in Galloway, celebrated the council’s longstanding contributions to Stockton by honoring individuals who have made significant impacts on advancing educational opportunities for African American and underrepresented students. 

In his opening remarks, Stockton President Joe Bertolino acknowledged the Council’s enduring legacy.  

“Forty years—that’s 40 years of commitment, leadership, and generosity from this council, which has created brighter futures for so many Stockton students,” he said.  

He further recognized the council as Stockton’s longest-established faculty organization, praising its mission to foster equity and inclusion on campus. 

Since its founding in 1981, the council has awarded over $283,000 in scholarships, with $20,000 given this year to students at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.  

"This impact is tremendous, and it’s a powerful testament to the council’s dedication to nurturing talent, fostering opportunity and investing in the next generation of leaders,” Bertolino added. 

This year’s honorees included: 

Dr. Briggette White – Dr. Juanita High Lifetime Achievement Award 

Dr. Darrell Cleveland – Merit Award 

Heather Medina '93, M.A. '01 and Aquasia Davis '13 – Distinguished Stockton Alumni Award 

Dr. Robert Gregg – Special Recognition Award 

TogetHER – Outstanding Stockton University Club/Organization Award 

In celebrating the honorees, Bertolino highlighted their contributions, saying, “Each of you has made extraordinary contributions, and we are grateful for the ways you strengthen our community, inspire those around you, and model excellence for our students.” 

The dinner provided an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie as attendees honored the accomplishments and dedication of this year’s award recipients. The Council of Black Faculty and Staff continues to be a pillar within Stockton University, providing scholarships and support to students and paving the way for future generations. 

“Celebrating 40 Years provides the Council of Black Faculty staff with an opportunity to highlight our past scholarship recipients, our previous honorees, and just an opportunity to remind people that the Council of Black Faculty and Staff is the oldest organized group at Stockton University.” said Patricia Collins, the president of the Council of Black Faculty and Staff. 

This 40th anniversary event underscored the council's commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive community at Stockton and inspired hope for many more years of impactful service and advocacy for educational equity. 

-- Story and photos by Lizzie Nealis