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Latina Leadership and the Future of New Jersey
- Somos Cultura
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 19
New Jersey is witnessing a significant moment in state leadership as two Latina leaders step into prominent roles that will shape the future of communities across the Garden State. The confirmation of Margo Chaly and the continued leadership of Jacquelyn A. Suárez represent an important milestone for representation in state government and for the growing presence of Hispanic leadership in public service.
Community members will have the opportunity to witness this historic moment during a public event organized by LUPE Advocacy and the Latino Action Network Foundation, which will include an educational breakfast conversation about Hispanic representation in appointed leadership roles, followed by the opportunity to observe the confirmation proceedings.
Together, these two leaders bring extensive experience in public service, policy development, and community engagement—areas that directly affect the daily lives of residents across New Jersey.
Margo Chaly: Expanding Opportunity Through Education
Appointed Acting Secretary of Higher Education in January 2026 by the administration of Mikie Sherrill, Margo Chaly oversees statewide coordination and planning for higher education policy.
Her work focuses on strengthening access to colleges, universities, and workforce pathways for students across the state.
Before stepping into this role, Chaly spent five years at the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) during the administration of Phil Murphy. She served as Chief of Staff beginning in 2021 and was later appointed Executive Director in 2024.
During her tenure, HESAA distributed nearly $1.4 billion in financial aid through grants and scholarships to eligible students attending colleges and universities throughout New Jersey. Her leadership also helped expand strategies aimed at strengthening workforce pipelines and supporting students entering high-need career fields.
Between 2024 and 2026, the Authority committed $19.9 million toward student loan relief while helping students finance career training through innovative programs such as the Pay It Forward program, which offers zero-interest, fee-free loans designed to remove financial barriers to education.
Throughout this period, New Jersey remained a national leader in FAFSA completion and in the distribution of need-based financial aid to students. Beyond government service, Chaly has also dedicated time to community empowerment and mentorship. She is a founding member of AMIGAS, Inc., which creates networking and service opportunities for women, and she serves on the board of the Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey.
A first-generation Guatemalan-American and lifelong New Jersey resident, Chaly earned her Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts from Ithaca College.
Jacquelyn A. Suárez: Investing in Community Development
At the same time, Jacquelyn A. Suárez, continues to lead the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, where she oversees initiatives that support housing, local government services, and community development across the state.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill recently announced that Suárez will remain Commissioner as part of the new administration, citing her experience and strong relationships with local governments and community leaders.
Suárez has served New Jersey for more than a decade in a variety of roles. Before becoming Commissioner, she worked as:
Director of the Division of Local Government Services
Chair of the Local Finance Board
Associate Counsel in the Governor’s Office
Legislative Liaison for the Department of Community Affairs
Today she leads a department of more than 1,000 employees and manages an operational budget of approximately $2.15 billion.
As the first Hispanic Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, Suárez has focused on initiatives that directly affect communities throughout the state, including:
Reforming the permitting process to reduce bureaucratic barriers
Expanding affordable housing development
Revitalizing vacant commercial properties for small businesses and mixed-use development
Supporting municipalities with management strategies that can help reduce local tax burdens
Her leadership has also supported statewide efforts to address veteran homelessness through the Bringing Veterans Home initiative.
A New Jersey native proud of her Latina roots, Suárez earned her Juris Doctor from Rutgers School of Law–Camden and her bachelor’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C. She is admitted to both the New Jersey and New York bar and is also a member of the Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey.
“Her-Story” Being Made | Sé Testigo de la Historia Siendo Hecha
Community members are invited to witness this historic moment firsthand during “Her-Story” Being Made, a special morning event celebrating the confirmation of these two leaders.
Hosted by Latinas United for Political Empowerment (LUPE) and the Latino Action Network Foundation, the event will highlight the importance of Hispanic representation in government leadership.
Event Details
Thursday, March 19
7:30 AM – 10:00 AM
New Jersey State House
Free and open to the public
The morning will begin with an Educational Breakfast Workshop focused on the importance of Hispanic representation in appointed government leadership. Following the breakfast, attendees will walk together to the State House to witness the historic confirmation hearings live.
The event will honor:
Jacquelyn A. Suárez — Acting Commissioner, Department of Community Affairs
Margo Chaly — Acting Secretary of Higher Education
Hosted in partnership with LUPE Advocacy and the Latino Action Network Foundation, the event is sponsored by the Trenton Puerto Rican Community and Friends Organization, Guatemalan Civic Asociation of Mercer Couunty, Kevin Soto (Trenton TFD / FMBA) Conexión Strategies, Casa Cultura and Councilwoman Yazminelly Gonzalez (City of Trenton).
More than a ceremony, the gathering represents a milestone for the Latino community in New Jersey and a powerful example of Hispanic leadership in action.
Community members are encouraged to attend, participate, and witness history as it unfolds.
Space is limited — RSVP Here today.
Casa Cultura is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to uplifting art, culture, and civic engagement within the Latino community. This event is supported for educational purposes only. Casa Cultura does not endorse political candidates or parties.
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