CHPRD Celebrates Graduates of 2024 Governor’s Hispanic Fellows Program

TRENTON, NJ - The Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development (CHPRD), a division within the New Jersey Department of State, celebrates the Class of 2024 as they graduate from the Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program. This year's cohort represents the largest group of Fellows since the program's establishment nearly 40 years ago.

For 8 weeks, New Jersey college students of Hispanic or Latino heritage participate in rigorous internships at public, private, and non-profit sector locations including PSE&G, Bristol Meyers Squibb, the Office of the New Jersey Governor, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties.

At the same time, these fellows also complete coursework that supports development of professional skills including written communication, negotiation, public speaking, organization and time management, professional etiquette, and the art of giving and receiving feedback.

"Our diversity is one of New Jersey's greatest strengths and leadership in both the public and private sector should reflect the people we serve," said Acting Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the CHPRD in her capacity as Secretary of State. "For nearly 40 years, this Fellows program has helped develop current and future generations of New Jersey leaders and we are excited to see what this class of Fellows does next."

"Witnessing the fellows' personal progress and growth throughout the program is inspiring," said Deputy Chief of Staff and Executive Director of CHPRD Marelyn Rivera. "Many of our fellows are the first in the family to attend college or participate in a program like this, and we know that their successes break down barriers for our communities."

The graduation event recognized several fellows individually for their achievement during the program:

Miguel Hernandez-Delgado was honored with the Class Speaker Award. A sophomore at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) majoring in Management, Miguel is a first-generation Mexican-American and a bilingual student from Trenton, NJ. His summer was marked by a transformative experience with Hispanic Inspiring Students' Performance and Achievement (HISPA), where he excelled as a Data Entry Intern.

Ashley Isabela Veras Ureña has received the Rising Star Award. A proud May 2024 graduate from Seton Hall University, Ashley lives in Paterson, New Jersey. She completed her placement at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families within the Child Permanency and Protection Division. During her time there, Ashley gained invaluable experience, observing dedicated caseworkers, participating in team meetings, and engaging with the various challenges and rewards of child welfare.

Riley Ypelaar has been awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award. A rising junior at Clemson University from Saddle Brook, NJ, Riley excelled as a Legislative Intern for Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez in NJ District 32. Her responsibilities included managing constituent case intake, organizing Bill Opinions, and improving the Assemblywoman's social media presence.

The Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program combines practical experience with traditional instruction, guest presentations, and unique skill-building opportunities, preparing Latin students for success in the 21st-century economy. This year's award recipients exemplify the program's commitment to fostering future leaders.

A number of fellows have been invited to continue their internship or have received an offer for full-time employment from their intern host upon graduation.

To learn more about the program or apply to join the 2025 class of Governor's Hispanic Fellows, visit https://nj.gov/state/chprd-hispanic-fellows-program.shtml.

Included below are photos of the graduation program:

Acting Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the CHPRD in her capacity as Secretary of State, addresses the Fellows Class of 2024

Miguel Hernandez-Delgado addresses the graduation as Class Speaker.

CHPRD Executive Director Marelyn Rivera addresses the fellows.

Governor's Hispanic Fellows Class of 2024 enjoys their graduation program.

About the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development (CHPRD):
Housed within the New Jersey Department of State, the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD) was established in 1975 to address the needs of the Hispanic community, recognizing that this growing population has been historically underserved. The CHPRD has a director and an advisory committee, all appointed with approval of the Governor. The Secretary of State serves as an ex-officio member of the advisory committee.

Beyond its oversight of the Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program, CHPRD works throughout the year to invest in Hispanic Community Based Organizations. It provides annual grant funding for qualified Hispanic-focused non-profit applicants working in Entrepreneurship, Citizenship and Integration, Workforce Development, and Community Service (within the following subcategories: children at risk, health risks and disease prevention, senior citizens, mental health).

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