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Dr. Melissa A. Jones

Director of EOF

Dr. Melissa Jones serves as the Director of the Educational Opportunity Fund. Dr. Jones earned her doctorate degree from Caldwell University, Master’s degree from University of New Haven, and undergraduate degree from University at Albany. Prior to accepting her new role, Dr. Jones was an administrator, educator, and team leader for the East Orange public school system for 20 years focusing on quantitative and qualitative data to  affect improvement and retention. Resulting in improved student outcomes. 

As a first-generation learner and EOP alumna, she believes in education and the importance of developing and implementing a community mission, vision, and strategic plan. Dr. Jones provides leadership training on a variety of topics such as academic success,  service learning, leadership development, data informed decision making, health and safety, and programming.

As a lifelong educator and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Dr. Jones believes in service to all mankind. Her objective is to always inspire learners to apply new ideas to problem-solving. As a former adjunct, Dr. Jones has practical experience with the application of educational philosophy, the integration of student development theory analysis, and the evaluation of specific learning targets. Additionally, Dr. Jones has  exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships among a  diverse population of students, alumni and community partners.

When not at work, Dr. Jones loves spending time with her family and friends. She can be found in Newark at NJPAC, the Prudential Center, Symphony Hall, and the Newark Museum of Arts.

 

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Jorge Cariga

Assistant Director of EOF

Jorge first joined ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ in 2018 as an EOF Counselor. He then transitioned to Senior EOF Counselor in 2020 and he has been our Assistant Director of EOF since 2023. Jorge has the passion and dedication to empower students to strive to their best potential. His ability to relate and motivate students enhances the EOF family environment.

Jorge is an EOF alumnus who has spent the last 16 years in the education system advocating and guiding students from high school to the college level. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and completed his Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in School Counseling from Saint Peter’s University. He is also an active member of Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Jorge is committed to moving our university forward while continuing to build on the successes of our EOF program.

 

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Jocelyn Merino

Interim Senior EOF Counselor

Jocelyn earned her Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University.  She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University. 

As a first-generation college student and EOF alumna, Jocelyn enjoys being the voice for her students and being a form of support for them, providing a sense of community. Jocelyn holds a strong dedication to tackling the complex issues of social, racial, and economic justice. Her ultimate goal is to acknowledge and support all students, regardless of color, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Jocelyn enjoys watching the sky at any time of the day, and going to the beach for relaxation and tranquility.

 

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Tyron Odom 

Interim EOF Counselor

Tyron Odom as our new Interim EOF Counselor. A proud ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ alum, Tyron’s journey began through the EOF Summer Program, which laid the foundation for his academic and personal growth. He earned dual degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology, followed by a Master’s in Justice Administration and Public Service. As a student, he was a trailblazer, serving on ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿â€™s first men’s soccer and tennis teams, and today he continues to exemplify leadership and service as a member of the United States Navy Reserve.

In addition to his new role, Tyron serves as an Assistant Track and Field/Cross Country Coach, giving back to the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ community that shaped him. His dedication, resilience, and mentorship embody the spirit of EOF, and we are thrilled to have him back supporting our students’ success.