Message from the NJACAC President

Hi Members,

Can you believe it’s still January? As admissions decisions roll in, we know how busy this season can be—with yield events, financial aid questions, and students feeling uncertain. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of ways NJACAC is here to support you!

Our Executive Committee recently gathered in person for our annual Winter Retreat at John E. Dwyer High School in Elizabeth. It was a great chance to share ideas, plan for the year ahead, and reconnect as colleagues (and friends).

Looking to get more involved? There’s always room at the table at NJACAC! Just hit reply if you’re interested—we’re still looking for committee members and co-chairs.

Dreaming of a Jersey summer already? 🌊 Registration is open for #NJACAC26 – Dancing in the Dark: Forging a Path Forward in Times of Uncertainty, happening May 17–19, 2026 at the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City. We’re excited to offer a two-night overnight waiver for school counselors, and there’s still time to submit a presentation proposal—don’t miss out!

Meet the Nation’s Top Transfer Students at PTK Catalyst 2026

Every spring, thousands of Phi Theta Kappa students and faculty/staff advisors from community colleges across the country come together for PTK Catalyst, the annual convention and celebration of student achievement, leadership, and the power of education. This year’s event will be held March 26–28, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland—just a short trip from New York! 

Catalyst is home to the nation’s largest in-person transfer fair, bringing together hundreds of 4-year colleges and universities with high-achieving, transfer-intending students who are ready to continue their education. These students are future campus leaders—academically strong, community-minded, and eager to find a place where they can thrive after transfer.

Join our friends at PTK Catalyst 2026 in Baltimore as we celebrate and support the transfer students shaping the future of higher education.  Please contact collegerelations@ptk.org for more information.

Upcoming NJACAC Events:

2/11 - 10am: Building the School Profile: Research and Resources for Counselors with Making Caring Common

2/25 - 10am: Up Your Guidance Game: Mastering Extracurricular Advising with Snow Day

3/18 - noon - IN PERSON at Bergen Community College: The Transfer Workshop: Ins and Outs of Dual Enrollment
 

Thanks for all you do for your students. I am so glad to be doing the work alongside each of you!

All the best,
Sasha
Sasha Rashid
NJACAC President
School Counselor, Henry P Becton Regional High School