Despite Severe Winter Weather, Fellows Kick Off Intensive Training to Build the Next Generation of Progressive Leadership

TRENTON, NJ — The New Jersey Leadership Collective (NJLC) launched its Class of 2026 Leadership Academy this weekend, convening 25 rising political and movement leaders from across the state for a two-day intensive focused on building power, sharpening organizing skills, and shaping New Jersey’s next generation of leadership.

The immersive kickoff brought fellows together to clarify leadership goals, strengthen campaign and organizing capacity, and forge durable relationships within a cohort committed to advancing progressive change across New Jersey’s communities and political institutions.

“This Fellowship exists to empower people who are already doing the work, sharpen their leadership, expand their networks, and step fully into their power,” said Mayrose Wegmann, President of the New Jersey Leadership Collective and Northwest Director at the New Jersey Education Association. “The Class of 2026 represents the future of leadership in our state — bold, values-driven, and ready to meet this moment.”

Throughout the Academy, Fellows will participate in training on building collective power, strategic communications, digital organizing, fundraising and finance, coalition building, public policy, and equity and inclusion — all with a focus on translating values into real-world impact.

The 2026 Leadership Academy is chaired by Viri Martinez, Deputy Director of Strategy at the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, and Will DiGrande, Outreach Manager for Congresswoman LaMonica McIver.

“Viri and Will bring deep organizing experience, political insight, and a real commitment to developing new leaders,” said Rob Matos-Moran, Vice President of New Jersey Leadership Collective and former Legislative Director to Governor Phil Murphy. “Under their leadership, this cohort is gaining the skills and confidence needed to lead at a critical time for New Jersey and the country.”

The Class of 2026 joins a growing network of NJLC alumni who are already shaping policy, organizing communities, and leading organizations across New Jersey.

To learn more about our Class of 2026 Fellows, please visit our website: https://www.newjerseyleaders.org/2026-fellows

About the New Jersey Leadership Collective

New Jersey Leadership Collective (formerly NLC-NJ) is New Jersey’s leading training program for the next generation of progressive leaders. Founded in 2011 by Justin Braz, Partner at MAD Global, and Jackie Cornell, Human Services Deputy Director for Mercer County, NJLC equips fellows with the skills to run for office, manage campaigns, and build lasting networks. Its alumni network includes more than 300 changemakers across the state.

NJLC’s Board of Directors includes: Mayrose Wegmann, Rob Matos-Moran, Jose Calves, Intashan Chowdhury, Anthony Covington, Erik Cruz Morales, Ruth Delgado, Will DiGrande, Madelaine (Laine) Hicks, Fatima Heyward, Viri Martinez, Medinah Muhammad, and Victoria Pacheco.