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Morris County School of Technology Student Ashwin Vaithiyalingam Earns Eagle Scout Rank

By
Frank Cahill
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Ashwin Vaithiyalingam stands proudly with his parents, celebrating his remarkable achievement.

MORRIS COUNTY — Ashwin Vaithiyalingam recently attained the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment celebrated at the Eagle Court of Honor held at All Saints Academy on Saturday, June 1. Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires dedication and a steadfast commitment to the principles of Scouting, a testament to its difficulty, with only about 6% of Scouts achieving it. Since its inception in 1911, over two million Scouts have reached this significant milestone.  He is officially Troop 72’s 103rd Eagle Scout! 

“Many people wonder whether years of scouting are worth it—freezing camping nights and dozens of eagle-required merit badges. My answer is always “yes,” said Ashwin.

Scout Rahul Pemmasani opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge is an important event. It is the goal for which a Scout has worked for many years, an occasion for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation, and the culmination of the Scout’s efforts and leadership. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting, the last major step in the advancement program. Fewer than six percent of all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout rank.

The requirements for Eagle are:
•Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a Life Scout.
•Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law daily.
•Earn 21 merit badges, including the 14 that are required: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming, Camping, and Family Life.
•Serve actively in an approved position of responsibility for six months after becoming a Life Scout.
•Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a service project worthy of an Eagle
Scout.
•Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.
•Appear before a board of review of prominent persons and satisfy them that the Scout has done their best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.

Brian Patoir lights the candles, symbolizing Ashwin’s “Trail to Eagle,” as Rahul Pemmasani narrates.

Ashwin’s Trail to Eagle  

Scout        June 6, 2018
Tenderfoot      March 27, 2019
Second Class  October 23, 2019
First Class       June 10, 2020
Star Scout       March 15, 2022
Life Scout       February 16, 2023
Eagle Scout     December 29, 2023

Ashwin Vaithiyalingam Reflects on His Scouting Journey to Eagle Scout

Ashwin Achieves Notable Milestone with 33 Merit Badges Earned: Archery, Chess, Camping, Art, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Climbing, Communications, Cooking, Electricity, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, Family Life, Fingerprinting, First Aid, Geology, Kayaking, Law, Leatherwork, Metalwork, Mammal Study, Nature, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Plant Science, Public Health, Railroading, Rowing, Scholarship, Swimming, and Wood Carving.

Ashwin places the “Dad Pin” on his father during the ceremony.
In gratitude for all the support and encouragement, Ashwin places the Eagle mother’s pin on his mom.
Mom smiles as she tightens the new neckerchief on Ashwin while dad looks on.
Mom fastens the newly earned Eagle pin on Ashwin.
Mom is moved to tears by Ashwin’s accomplishments.

Ashwin’s Eagle Project involved planning, coordination, and much effort from the initial concept to the final installation. Ashwin demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and successfully rallied a team of volunteers to bring his vision to life. The garden has various elements, including pollinator plants to attract bees and butterflies, perennial plants, murals, pathways, and other elements. From a tranquil reading area to an outdoor learning space, this garden showcases Ashwin’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Ashwin’s Eagle Project involved planning, coordination, and much effort from the initial concept to the final installation.

Ashwin said, “When I first joined Troop 72, I was nervous. I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of wearing a uniform and sleeping outside, and I, most importantly, hated the idea of interacting with bugs. I remember my first summer camping trip. My mom was super nervous about sending me away to the woods, and I was scared of being near bugs. Yet, Mr. Sonzogni promised my parents that Boy Scout summer camp is the perfect opportunity to learn and grow as a student, citizen, and scout. With Mr. Sonzognis’s encouragement, my parents confidently sent me to camp. Once I reached camp, I didn’t know what to expect. The green tents filled with slugs and spiders were scary, but I slowly got used to it. I began enjoying summer camp. When I started completing merit badges, swimming in the lake, and spending days in the sun.”

Mr. Sonzogni recognized Ashwin’s leadership in scouting.

Mr. Sonzogni recognized Ashwin’s leadership in scouting. He recommended the National Youth Leadership Training Camp, where Ashwin pushed himself further by working with a diverse group of scouts to camp and develop personal skills. After completing the course, Ashwin was offered a position to teach the next year to scouts. Ashwin immersed himself in the monthly development meetings. He enhanced his ability to lead others and meet new faces.

Ashwin was student government president, campaigning every year and serving four years at the Morris County School of Technology. He will graduate in June and pursue higher education at Emory University in the fall.

Ashwin Vaithiyalingam possesses top skills in film editing, administration, project management, and cinematography.

Frank Cahill, an Executive Board Member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, presents Ashwin with a “Certificate of Achievement” and a gift card to a Chamber member. Additionally, Cahill, the Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, presented Ashwin with an envelope filled with gift certificates and complimentary offers from local merchants.
Mayor James Barberio congratulates Ashwin and gives him an American Flag and other gifts.
Ms. Marianne Burke, Womans Club of Parsippany, congratulates Ashwin and presents him with a gift.
Frank Cahill, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, presents Ashwin with a “Certificate of Achievement” along with a check.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia congratulates Ashwin Vaithiyalingam on his outstanding achievement of earning the Eagle Scout rank.
Councilman Justin Musella, a graduate of Emory College, congratulates Ashwin Vaithiyalingam on earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. Ashwin will also be attending Emory College in the fall.
Sra. Rocio Felix, a Spanish teacher at Morris County School of Technology, has been a significant influence on Ashwin’s educational journey.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2024.

DeSales University Celebrates Janae Topor’s Academic and Leadership Excellence

By
Frank Cahill
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DeSales University Honors Janae Topor with Dean's List and Leadership Award

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Janae Topor, a 2023 graduate of Lumen Gentium Academy, made the DeSales University Spring 2024 Dean’s List.

Topor is majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

In May 2024, DeSales University SGA awarded her the James F. Kilcur Class Leadership Award. This award is given to a first-year student, sophomore, junior, or senior who has exemplified outstanding leadership through academics and extracurricular activities and has been a positive role model for others during the academic year.

DeSales University, located in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian Catholic university led by the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City.

The university enrolls nearly 3,500 students, including undergraduate day and evening students and graduate students. DeSales employs approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers over 40 bachelor’s degrees, 12 graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs across various disciplines, many of which can be completed online.

For further information, please visit www.desales.edu.

Tax Preparer Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for $4.4 Million Conspiracy to Defraud IRS

By
Frank Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

MORRIS COUNTY — A tax preparer was sentenced to 57 months in prison for conspiring to obtain over $4.4 million by defrauding the IRS, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Omar Khater, 33, Fairfield, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court on Jan. 23, 2024, to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS. Khater’s conspirator, Walid Khater, 38, of Arizona, pleaded guilty on May 23 to an information charge him with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS.

“Omar Khater has admitted his role in an elaborate scheme that used stolen personal identifying information and fabricated tax returns to bilk the IRS of millions of dollars. He and a relative submitted tax documents falsely claiming that the taxpayers listed on those documents had earned certain income or won thousands – and in some cases millions – of dollars in gambling and lottery winnings. Working with our law enforcement partners, we will root out these illegal and dangerous schemes, and those who perpetrate them can expect the same result as this defendant,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.

“Omar Khater used stolen identities to file fraudulent tax returns for illicit personal financial gain,” Jenifer L. Piovesan, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, said. “He was caught and is now a convicted felon with a prison sentence to serve. IRS – Criminal Investigation will continue to vigorously investigate individuals who attempt to steal taxpayer money from the U.S. Treasury.”

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

Omar and Walid Khater were relatives who worked together and with others to steal victims’ identities, which they used to file false tax returns and fraudulently receive tax refunds from the IRS. They electronically submitted tax documents to the IRS falsely claiming that the individual taxpayers listed on those documents had earned certain income or won thousands – and in some cases millions – of dollars in gambling and lottery winnings. The false filings also claimed tax withholdings on the purported income or gambling winnings that entitled the tax filer to refund payments from the IRS. The Khaters and others typically submitted these fraudulent tax filings using the victims’ names and personal identifying information without the victims’ knowledge or permission. The fraudulent filings caused the IRS to pay lucrative tax refunds, which the Khaters and others directed to various bank accounts they controlled.  This scheme caused the U.S. Treasury to issue tax refunds of $4.49 million, which the Khaters and others diverted to bank accounts they controlled in New Jersey and elsewhere.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Omar Khater to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $4.49 million.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Piovesan in Newark, and special agents of FBI-Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Fatime Meka Cano of the Economic Crimes Unit and Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark represent the government.

Ribbon Cutting for Morris Canal Towpath in Dover to Include Petting Zoo, Refreshments

By
Frank Cahill
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T-Mobile presented a $50,000 grant for the Trail. Endorsements for the project include Avenues in Motion, Donna Rendeiro from the State of New Jersey Department of State Business Action Center Office of Planning Advocacy, Denize Lanza from the Morris Park Alliance, the Dover Area Historical Society, and the Town of Dover.

DOVER — On Saturday, June 15 at 11:20 a.m., the Town of Dover, in partnership with grant sponsors T-Mobile and The Canal Society of New Jersey, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the Morris Canal Towpath.

In addition to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, The Town is hosting a free, family-friendly picnic at 100 Princeton Avenue (Waterworks Park). The event will serve summer favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers, and other refreshments at no cost to the public. The event includes a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This less-than-a-mile trail connects with The Morris Canal Greenway, envisioned as a 111-mile continuous pedestrian and bicycle trail linking six counties in northern New Jersey. Once completed, it will extend from the Delaware River on the west to the Hudson River on the east.

“Many greenway segments have already been completed, but much work remains to create a continuous trail,” said the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA). “In partnership with the Canal Society of New Jersey and the Morris Canal Working Group, we completed a study that presents a plan for a continuous greenway closely aligned with the historic canal route.” For more information, visit Morris Canal Greenway.

The town collaborated with Dover College Promise students, who used their class time to design the landscape of this historic trail. These highly engaged students inspired this grant application.

Boonton’s Kolesnikova Gains Experience with Local Businesses through Alvernia’s O’Pake Fellows Program

By
Frank Cahill
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Aleksandra Kolesnikova

BOONTON — Aleksandra Kolesnikova is one of 21 O’Pake Fellows who graduated as members of Alvernia University’s Class of 2024 and presented a final project regarding the experiential learning opportunities and professional development gleaned from the O’Pake Fellows Program. The O’Pake Fellows Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on, distinctive experiential learning opportunities. Students of high academic standing from diverse majors and backgrounds work directly with regional entrepreneurs, small business owners, faculty researchers, and industry leaders.

In alignment with Alvernia’s core value of contemplation, O’Pake Graduate Assistant of Student Services Brianna Schnieder took the lead on facilitating the final reflection project with the guidance of Executive Director of Student & Client Services Michelle Conway, MBA, and Student Experiential Learning Specialist Max Horn, MBA.

“We often describe the fellow experience as a metamorphosis; this project aims to bring their experience full circle as fellows transition from one stage to the next,” said Schneider. “We hope they can recognize their impact on the community around them while also celebrating their own achievements, such as the skills and knowledge they leave the program with. Moving forward, this comprehensive project will help fellows track their impact on the businesses they work with since they might work with up to 40 businesses if they start as first-year students in the program.”

Graduating Fellows like Kolesnikova were able to present highlights and deliverables from their experience, including work they have done for local business owners in and beyond Berks and Schuylkill counties, the training they have engaged in, connections they have made through networking and skills they have built along the way for the resume.

“Being a part of the O’Pake Institute has shaped my professional career immensely,” said Graduate Assistant of Community Based Campuses, John (Jack) Cossa ’23 MBA ’24, when reflecting on his experience working with small businesses surrounding Alvernia’s Pottsville CollegeTowne. “I have had amazing opportunities throughout my time at O’Pake to be a part of high-level projects helping clients achieve their goals to elevate their business. Without O’Pake, I would not be the young, aspiring professional I am. The experiential learning you receive through O’Pake is the first class I recommend to any professional looking to enhance their professional experience.”

The O’Pake Fellows Program encourages students like Kolesnikova to engage in applied research, scholarly travel, and other personal and professional training activities to enhance their experience. Undergraduate Fellows can also work with up to 3-5 clients a semester and are exposed to projects that fulfill various needs of businesses in the community.

“Through the various clients I’ve worked with, I’ve loved learning about and collaborating with different kinds of personalities, businesses, and passions. It has allowed me to take note of the various challenges and approaches that exist in the media/marketing space and the importance of being strategic and adaptable.” After spending two years working with O’Pake, Maldonado also shares that incoming freshman to the O’Pake Institute should “always be open to new opportunities and challenges, as they will help you grow both personally and professionally.”

Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves over 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville, and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences, and community engagement through its Franciscan-based community service model.

Mosquito Spraying Scheduled for Thursday Morning in East Hanover

By
Frank Cahill
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File photo

EAST HANOVER — The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will use an All-Terrain vehicle to treat a section of woods in East Hanover Township on Thursday morning.

According to the commission, the mosquito spraying will take place at Lurker Park (Ridgedale Avenue) from 4:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 13, weather permitting.

The commission will use Anvil 2+2, with the active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329, or Zenivex E4, with the active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724-807.

For more information, click here or call (973) 285-6450.

Morris County Strengthens Veterans Support with Expanded Services

By
Frank Cahill
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Mental Health, Employment, and Housing Focus at Morris County Veterans Event

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County recently welcomed veterans and service providers at the Morris County Veterans Services Office for a meeting hosted by the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. The event aimed to foster networking and better understand veterans’ support needs across the region.

The meeting saw over 60 participants, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the N.J. State Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson, Veterans Affairs Healthcare, Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Morris Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc., and the Mental Health Association of NJ were also present.

“Supporting our veterans is crucial to honor their sacrifices and ensure their well-being,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran. “While holidays often spotlight their service, we want our veterans to know that Morris County is here throughout the year providing essential services for their transition to civilian life, whether it be access to healthcare, employment opportunities, and training, or mental health support.”

Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Veterans Services, updated county veterans services. In the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veterans Services Office to include a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer position, which is currently being recruited, and a seasonal intern who recently joined and participated in the event.

“In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services, and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department,” Krickus said.

A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened in May at the Morris County VSO at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the VA CAP.

Two VA counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center are available to provide services every Thursday by appointment. Veterans interested in these services should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at (973) 748-0980 to schedule an appointment.

Additionally, a veterans appreciation event is being planned for later this summer at a park in Morris County. Sign up for the Morris County weekly email newsletter for updates about this and other veteran events throughout the county.

Officer Caraig Arrests Suspected Drunk Driver After Erratic Driving Report

By
Frank Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

DOVER — On Monday, May 20, at approximately 1:57 a.m., Dover Police Officer Christopher Caraig was traveling east on West Blackwell Street when he encountered a vehicle in the westbound lane with high beams on, disrupting his vision.

Behind the vehicle was a taxi cab, flashing its high-beam headlights and signaling me. I stopped my patrol vehicle and spoke with the taxi driver, who stated that the vehicle in front of him was driving erratically and “drunk.” Officer Caraig turned his patrol vehicle around and followed the car.

The vehicle continued west on West Blackwell Street towards the intersection of Randolph Avenue. The vehicle slowly turned left onto Randolph Avenue and traveled south. While traveling south on Randolph Avenue, the vehicle failed to maintain its lane when entering the northbound lane.

The vehicle then turned right onto Spring Street, failing to maintain its travel lane by entering the eastbound lane. The vehicle turned left onto Elizabeth Street, continuing south. As the car began to park on the right near the curb, Officer Caraig activated the overhead emergency lights and conducted a traffic stop. Before the vehicle stopped, Officer Caraig observed the vehicle strike the curb.

Officer Caraig approached the passenger side of the vehicle. He met with the driver, Mr. Olman Mejia Flores, 19. He asked if I spoke Spanish, and I replied that I did not.

When Officer Caraig asked for his driver’s license, registration, and insurance card, he slowly handed me his NJ probationary driver’s license. Officer Caraig radioed Officer Kristopher Martinez for assistance in Spanish translation.

Officer Caraig then asked him to step out of the vehicle several times, but he stated he did not understand and slowly put on his seatbelt. While conversing with Mr. Mejia Flores, Officer Caraig observed his eyes as bloodshot, watery, and droopy. His speech was accented, incoherent, rambling, slobbering, slow and slurred. His demeanor was cooperative, polite, and calm. He had an occupant with him who was seated in the front passenger seat. His passenger was observed to have bloodshot, watery, and droopy eyes. His passenger was later identified as Mr. Elder Flores.

A series of field sobriety tests were performed. After the tests, Mr. Mejia Flores was advised and placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. He was handcuffed behind his back and placed into the patrol vehicle.

Officer Caraig administered the alcotest to Mr. Mejia Flores, and Officer Martinez assisted in translating the instructions. He provided two sufficient breath samples. The alcotest results indicated that Mr. Mejia Flores had a BAC of 0.13%.

Mr. Mejia Flores was issued the following traffic summonses:
•Driving while intoxicated
•Careless driving (39:4-97)
•Probationary driver violating hours of operation (39:3-13.8)
•Failure to notify DMV of address change (39:3-36)
•Failure to maintain traffic lane (39-4-88)
•Improper use of high headlight beams (39:3-60)

He was driving a 2009 Black Honda, which Bunky’s Towing towed from the scene.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Tri-County Fair: Where Adventure Begins

By
Frank Cahill
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Tri-County Fair: Fun, Food, and Festivities Await

MORRIS COUNTY — The Tri-County Fair at 140 Green Pond Road in Rockaway will occur from Thursday, June 13, to Sunday, June 16. Now in its 10th incredible year, this annual family festival is packed with new attractions, excitement, and entertainment for all ages.

One of the main highlights of the Tri-County Fair is its array of carnival rides and games, offering something for everyone. From thrilling rides to classic games, visitors of all ages will find plenty to enjoy. Pay one price and ride all day on Thursday and Sunday.

On Friday, June 15, at around 9:15 p.m., the fair will light up the sky with a spectacular fireworks display. In addition to the fireworks, the fair features several live performances, including the “Extreme Illusions and Escapes” magic show, providing captivating entertainment for all.

The Tri-County Fair is designed with families in mind. It offers a variety of activities for children, such as pony rides, face painting, and carnival games. Food lovers can indulge in classic carnival treats like funnel cakes and cotton candy, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious snack while exploring the fair. Monster truck rides all four days!

The car show is free for spectators, making it a fantastic addition to the fair experience.

The fair will host a classic and custom car show on Saturday, June 15, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bring Dad on Sunday, June 16, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a picture with the Batmobile.

Car enthusiasts can admire beautifully restored vehicles and see categories like Best in Show, Best Paint, Best Interior, Best Engine, and more. The car show is free for spectators, making it a fantastic addition to the fair experience.

Visitors look forward to the thrill of axe throwing at the upcoming Tri-County Fair.

The fair offers drone piloting and axe throwing for those seeking more adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these attractions promise a barrel of fun and excitement.

Admission to the Tri-County Fair is free, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Ride tickets and wristbands can be purchased at the gate or in advance at discounted prices.

The fair hours are Thursday 6-11 p.m., Friday 5-11 p.m., Saturday 2-11 p.m., and Sunday 1-7 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the attractions.

Click here to visit their website for more information about the Tri-County Fair, including schedules and ticket rates.

This event promises to be a fantastic outing for all family members!

CCM Awarded $650,000 Advanced Technology Education Grant from the National Science Foundation

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a $650,000 Advanced Technology Education (ATE) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant, distributed over three years, will support the college’s expansion of its current nationally recognized Data Science program and aid in the establishment of a new, cutting-edge Data Science Institute. This initiative aligns with the college’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence and meeting the evolving needs of the community and industry. 

Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM, expressed gratitude to NSF for the generous grant and emphasized its significance in advancing the college’s mission. “Not only will this grant enable us to expand Data Science at CCM,” said Iacono, “but also help create the Data Science Institute and strive to meet our goals from the training of faculty with industry certification to creating a seamless career pathway in data science for students of all ages.”

Key Benefits

CCM provides an opportunity for students to gain an early interest in the data science field with a fast-track approach toward employment. The college’s Center for Workforce Development offers cutting-edge courses in Business Analytics, Tableau, R-Programming and more to accelerate one’s career as a data scientist. Students can enroll at CCM to quickly earn the 16-credit certificate of achievement in data analytics in less than one year and even further their studies at CCM towards an associate of science degree in computer science with a concentration in data science.

The ATE grant will support teachers to ensure they attain industry-recognized certifications and are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge in data science to deliver excellent instruction. Students may gain training and specialized workshops on data manipulation, statistical analysis, machine learning, data visualization and more, on campus and in virtual format. Guest lecturers, industry visits and networking events will also showcase real-world applications of data science and help funnel students to industry.

Most recently, the college’s Data Science program has participated in the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) Pathways Initiative that includes the New Jersey Big Data Alliance (NJBDA) – Data Science Articulation Project. This project establishes seamless transfer pathways from several two-year to four-year institutions across New Jersey, including CCM.

According to Iacono, “CCM will continue to be a leader in education and data science plus play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.”               

“This grant truly represents a significant milestone for the college,” said CCM Professor of Mathematics Kelly Fitzpatrick. “We are excited to embark on this journey of expansion and innovation, and we are confident that the resources provided by this grant will empower our faculty and students, including underrepresented groups and Women in STEM, to excel in the dynamic field of data science.”

CCM’s success in Data Science has been highlighted and publicized nationally.

  • The New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) featured this project on the March 23 episode of Minding Your Business, where Fitzpatrick spoke about its success. 
  • NSF featured the college’s courses, transfer agreements, and pathways in Data Science on page 91 of its annual publication, ATE Impacts.

 CCM is a renowned institution of higher learning known for its commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. For more information about CCM or media inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Melissa Albright, Vice President of Marketing, Public Relations & Enrollment Management, email: [email protected], or call (973) 328-5171.    

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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