TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Leadership Collective (NJLC) has received a record number of applications for its Class of 2027 Fellowship, marking a milestone for the statewide organization and reflecting growing interest among emerging progressive leaders in shaping New Jersey’s political and policy future.

Applications poured in from every region of the state, representing a broad range of professional backgrounds, policy interests, and community experiences. Applicants include staff from federal, state, county, and local government; professionals from advocacy organizations and labor unions; political activists; and experts in healthcare, education, transportation, and housing. Together, they reflect a diverse pool of emerging leaders seeking to advance a progressive agenda and make a difference in communities across New Jersey.

“Every year, we see the potential of New Jersey’s next generation of progressive leaders, and this record response reinforces the importance of investing in that potential,” said Mayrose Wegmann, NJLC President and Northwest Director at NJEA. “At a time when the direction of our state is being actively shaped, we need leaders who are prepared to stand up for their communities, advance meaningful policy change, and help build a more progressive New Jersey.”

“New Jersey has no shortage of people who want to make a difference. The opportunity is to connect them with the tools, mentorship, and networks that can help them translate that commitment into meaningful leadership,” said Rob Matos-Moran, NJLC Vice President and Government Affairs at River Crossing Strategy Group. “NJLC brings people together across communities and experiences, building relationships that can strengthen our state’s civic and political future for years to come.”

The six-month fellowship provides participants with practical training in political campaigns, organizing, public service, and leadership. Fellows also build relationships with peers and experienced leaders from across the state, gaining skills and connections they can apply in their communities and careers.

The Class of 2027 builds on NJLC’s commitment to developing a diverse pipeline of progressive leaders prepared to contribute to New Jersey’s advocacy, policy, and political landscape. The program brings together people with different experiences and perspectives to expand their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of the issues facing the state, and prepare for greater roles in public life.

“The strength of the fellowship comes from what the cohort can build together,” said Erik Cruz, NJLC Chair of the Selections Committee and Director of Democracy at the League of Women Voters of New Jersey. “Our selections committee is looking beyond traditional measures of achievement to recognize the many ways people lead in their communities. We want to bring together fellows whose different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives will challenge them to learn from one another, build collective power, and turn shared values into action across New Jersey.”

The Class of 2027 fellows will be announced on Thursday, December 10, with a celebration at The Lobby Club in Trenton. The event will bring together NJLC stakeholders and supporters to meet the incoming class and recognize the next generation of New Jersey’s progressive leaders.

For more information about the New Jersey Leadership Collective and its fellowship program, visit www.newjerseyleaders.org.

About the New Jersey Leadership Collective: The New Jersey Leadership Collective is a statewide network dedicated to developing the next generation of progressive leaders in New Jersey. Through leadership development, skills training, and relationship-building, NJLC equips emerging leaders to run for office, manage campaigns, participate in public service, and make a difference in their communities. Learn more at www.newjerseyleaders.org.