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Morgan State University Alumni Association New Jersey Chapter

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from the President of the

Morgan State University New Jersey Chapter

Dear Morganites and Members of the Morgan State University New Jersey Alumni Chapter,

Thank you, thank you, and thank you.


It is with deep appreciation and pride that I reflect on another successful chapter year. Our

accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication, commitment, and

continued support of our chapter members, alumni, volunteers, partners, and friends of Morgan.

This year, we strengthened not only our impact within the community, but also the operational

foundation and future sustainability of our chapter. Together, we introduced innovative

enhancements that position our chapter for continued growth and relevance, including the

implementation of the Zeffy software platform to support scholarships and fundraising efforts,

the establishment of our chapter’s virtual SWAG store, the creation of sponsorship opportunities

and support levels, expanded communication and engagement efforts, and increased

collaborations throughout the communities we proudly serve.


More importantly, we continued to demonstrate what it means to lead with purpose, excellence,

service, and the spirit of Morgan.


With your support, we were able to:

• Expand scholarship and student support initiatives

• Strengthen chapter operations and member engagement

• Increase community outreach and visibility

• Build meaningful partnerships and collaborations

• Create new opportunities for future Morganites and alumni connections


I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge and highlight the extraordinary contributions of our

Executive Committee, E-Board members, volunteers, and supporters throughout the year:


1st Vice President – Regina Carter

For coordinating and supporting participation in more than 11 college fairs and helping expand

Morgan’s visibility and recruitment efforts.


2nd Vice President – Vanessa Beazer

For stepping into the role mid-term and support to the chapter’s continued success.


Secretary – Brenda Perry

For her continued dedication and willingness to take on another critical leadership role in support

of the chapter since 2013.


Treasurer – Ursula Cargill

For stepping into the role and helping strengthen and organize the chapter’s financial landscape

and processes.


Public Relations and Technology – La-Tonya Johnson

For exceptionally serving in dual leadership roles, expanding the chapter’s social media presence

across multiple platforms, and ensuring our technology and communications remained current,

engaging, and relevant.


Corresponding Secretary – Lauren Singletary

For stepping into the role and helping establish internal and external communication processes

that continue to keep our chapter informed, connected, and organized.


Committee Leaders and Members

Thank you for your continuous contributions, dedication, and collective efforts in helping the

chapter meet and exceed its goals throughout the year.


Every contribution matters. Whether you volunteered your time, attended events, donated, served

on a committee, supported a student, shared your expertise, or simply showed up in support of

the chapter you helped continue the legacy of Morgan State University within New

Jersey and beyond.


As we continue moving forward, I encourage every Morganite to remain connected, engaged,

and inspired to contribute in ways both big and small. Our chapter’s strength is not built by one

person it is built collectively through the passion, leadership, service, and commitment of

those who believe in the power and legacy of Morgan.


There is still important work ahead, and the opportunities to grow our impact are limitless. I

invite you to continue walking alongside us as we build, elevate, and sustain a chapter culture

that reflects the excellence of our alma mater and the communities we proudly serve.

Thank you for helping us create meaningful impact, lasting connections, and a stronger future for

Morgan State University.


Forever Morgan, Morgan Forever.

With appreciation and gratitude,

Claudia Ruffin

President

Morgan State University New Jersey Alumni Chapter

 

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from the Executive Board of the

Morgan State University New Jersey Chapter

As we close another impactful chapter year, the Executive Board of the Morgan State University

New Jersey Alumni Chapter extends sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this year

meaningful and successful.


Thank you to our members, volunteers, committee teams, supporters, and partners for showing

up, stepping in, and helping move our chapter forward through service, collaboration, and Bear

pride.


From college fairs and community outreach to scholarships, fundraising efforts, networking

opportunities, and chapter programming, your support helped strengthen our presence and

expand our impact throughout New Jersey and beyond.


We especially thank those who worked behind the scenes to ensure our events, initiatives, and

operations continued to grow with excellence, professionalism, and purpose.

To our college fair volunteers and recruitment supporters, thank you for representing Morgan

State University with pride and helping inspire the next generation of Bears.


As leadership transitions and a new chapter year begins, we congratulate and support the

incoming Executive Board members. We are confident the chapter will continue to build upon

the strong foundation, momentum, and legacy established through collective service and

commitment.


Together, we continue to demonstrate the power of alumni engagement, community impact, and

the enduring Morgan spirit.


Thank you for your continued support and dedication.

With appreciation,

The Executive Board

Morgan State University New Jersey Alumni Chapter


Bear Pride. Bear Excellence. Bear Legacy.

Morgan State University New Jersey Chapter Meeting

Saturday, June 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm

Fellow Morganites!

  

We invite you to join us for our monthly meeting. Our chapter officers will present the latest updates and share their exciting goals for the upcoming year.

 

Meeting ID: 730 731 6277

Passcode: MSU1867

MSU NJAC: Pride in the Past, Purpose in the Present

🐻💙🧡It's Time to Vote!


The MSU New Jersey Alumni Chapter is preparing to elect its 2026 –2028 Executive Committee and we need your participation.

Members will vote for the following positions:

  • President
  • First Vice President
  • Second Vice President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • Financial Secretary

Our Executive Board provides leadership, supports chapter programs and events, and helps strengthen connections among alumni throughout New Jersey.

We encourage all members to attend the June Chapter Meeting and cast their vote. Your participation helps shape the future of our chapter and ensures strong alumni leadership for years to come.

Your Voice. Your Vote. Your Chapter.

Join early, show your Morgan pride, and claim your welcome gift while supplies last!

Morganites,


The countdown is officially on! Our chapter year runs July 1 – June 30, and now is the time to lock in your 2026–2027 membership with the Morgan State University Alumni Association – New Jersey Chapter.


Whether you’re renewing, coming back home to the chapter, or joining for the first time, your membership does more than keep your status active it helps us continue building a strong, connected, and thriving Morgan community across New Jersey.


Your membership helps us:

  •  Strengthen alumni engagement and traditions
  •  Support chapter programs, events, and initiatives
  •  Energize community outreach and service efforts
  •  Create opportunities for current and future Morganites

This year, let’s go bigger, connect deeper, and make an even greater impact together.

  •  Don’t just watch be part of the movement.
  • Invite a fellow Morganite.
  •  Renew your membership.
  •  Join today and help shape another incredible chapter year.

Membership Reminder: Morganites may pay dues for no more than two consecutive years.


 One Family. One Purpose. One Morgan.


🐻💙🧡 Save the Date: Annual Morgan Alumni Cookout!


The Morgan State University Alumni Association New Jersey Chapter invites all Morganites, family, and friends to save the date for our highly anticipated Annual Cookout one of our signature summer events and a celebration of Morgan pride and fellowship!


📅 Saturday, July 25, 2026
📍 Loantaka Brook Reservation
468 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07962


Join us for an afternoon of great food, music, fun, and connection as we bring together alumni from across New Jersey and beyond. Whether you're looking to reconnect with classmates, network with fellow Bears, or simply enjoy a summer day with the Morgan family, this is an event you won't want to miss.


To help us plan appropriately for food, seating, and activities, RSVP reservations are requested. Your response will help ensure an enjoyable experience for all attendees.


Mark your calendar, spread the word, and get ready for a fantastic day of fellowship and Bear pride. We look forward to seeing you there!

🔥 Calling All Proud Morganites! 🔥

 

Now’s your moment to pay it forward and keep the Morgan Bears spirit roaring in New Jersey! 🐻💙 Join a Morgan State University NJ Alumni Chapter committee and put your energy, ideas, and skills to work shaping future generations, supporting current students, and making a real impact.

 

✨ Your time + your talents = a stronger Morgan family.

 

Jump in today let’s make greatness happen together! 🚀


MSU NJAC: Pride in the Past, Purpose in the Present


🎉 Morgan NJ Alumni Chapter Store Coming Soon!


Get ready, Bears! The Morgan State University New Jersey Alumni Chapter is excited to announce that our official Chapter Store is coming soon.

Members and supporters will soon have the opportunity to purchase exclusive chapter-branded apparel, accessories, and spirit items designed to showcase your Morgan pride wherever you go.

Stay tuned for the official launch date, product previews, and special announcements. We can't wait to help you represent the Orange & Blue in style!

 Coming Soon

  •  Exclusive Chapter Merchandise
  •  Support Your NJ Alumni Chapter
  •  Show Your Morgan Pride

Bear Pride. Bear Excellence. Bear Legacy.

🎉 Happy Birthday to Our June Morgan Bears! 🐻💙🧡

 

The Morgan State University New Jersey Alumni Chapter extends warm birthday wishes to all members celebrating in June! 


This month, we celebrate the curious, dynamic spirit of our Gemini Bears and the loyal, compassionate strength of our Cancer Bears leaders, innovators, mentors, and changemakers whose dedication continues to make a lasting impact within our chapter, communities, and beyond. Whether you are connecting people through your ideas, leading with purpose, or uplifting others through service, your contributions help strengthen the Morgan legacy every day.


June represents growth, possibility, and new beginnings, and your commitment to excellence reflects those qualities in remarkable ways. We are grateful for the energy, leadership, and Bear pride you bring to New Jersey and wherever life’s journey takes you. 


May this new year of life bring abundant blessings, exciting opportunities, meaningful connections, and continued success in all that you do.

 Happy Birthday to all our June Bears!


Keep striving, keep inspiring, and continue showing the world what it truly means to be Morgan Made.

🎓 Alumni Spotlight: Congratulations, Nyrea Cross!

 

The Morgan State University Alumni Association New Jersey Chapter proudly congratulates Nyrea Cross, Class of 2023, on earning her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University on May 18, 2026.


Nyrea credits her time at Morgan State University for providing a strong foundation that helped prepare her for this significant achievement. Her dedication to academic excellence and service exemplifies the spirit of Morgan alumni.


Her plan is to work within a school system as a school social worker, supporting students' academic, social, and emotional development. She also plans to earn her Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential by successfully completing the LMSW examination. Looking ahead, she aspires to open her own private practice, where she can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families while expanding access to quality mental health and support services.


Please join us in celebrating Nyrea's accomplishment and wishing her continued success in her professional journey.


Congratulations, Nyrea! 🎉


Morgan State University News!

Morgan State Athletics is bringing the excitement directly to alumni and fans with the announcement of the 2026 Coaches Caravan and this summer, New Jersey is on the map!

 

From the DMV to Jersey, this highly anticipated tour is designed to connect the Morgan community, celebrate our “National Treasure” pride, and build momentum for the upcoming athletic season.


New Jersey Stop

Thursday, July 16, 2026
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Gabriele's Bar & Grill

 

This is more than just an event it’s an opportunity to reconnect, engage, and represent Morgan excellence alongside fellow alumni and supporters.

 

What to Expect

  • Meet and interact with Morgan State coaches
  • Network with fellow alumni and fans
  • Enter to win prizes and giveaways
  • Purchase tickets for the exciting 2026–2027 athletic season
  • Enjoy complimentary drinks and appetizers

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or newly connected to the Morgan family, this event offers the perfect blend of school pride, community, and celebration.

 

RSVP Today

To ensure a great experience for all attendees, advance registration is requested. Securing your spot early helps organizers plan accordingly and guarantees you won’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.

 

Register in advance and be part of the momentum as Morgan State Athletics gears up for another standout year.

Save the Date: Live The Legacy Homecoming Weekend 2026


🎉 Live The Legacy Homecoming Kickoff

Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Kick off Homecoming with an exciting evening featuring music, food, special guests, fellowship, and more as Morganites gather to celebrate tradition, community, and legacy.


✨ 42nd Annual Homecoming Gala

Friday, October 9, 2026

VIP Reception: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Gala: 8:00 PM – Midnight

📍 Live! Casino & Hotel


Join alumni, supporters, and friends for Morgan State University’s signature fundraising event supporting student scholarships. Enjoy a black-tie evening featuring live entertainment, a three-course dinner, professional photos, networking, and memorable moments.


🏈 Game Day & Campus Celebration

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Celebrate Homecoming on campus with a full day of tailgating, alumni events, school spirit, and campus traditions before cheering on Morgan as the Bears take on Robert Morris University at Hughes Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland.


Stay tuned for ticket details and let’s continue to Live the Legacy together!


HBCU & Alumni Affiliated News

Get Ready to Groove: Soul Line Dance 

Where Culture Meets Community

May 8, 2026 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm

 

Step into rhythm, culture, and connection at Soul Line Dance, a high-energy, HBCU-inspired experience that celebrates movement, music, and Black cultural expression. Mark your calendars and get ready to step, slide, and shuffle your way into a fantastic night of rhythm and pride.

 

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned dancer, everyone is welcome. Our dynamic instructors will guide participants through a range of line dances, from beginner-friendly steps to advanced routines. 💃🏽

 

📍 Location: Terrace Ballroom

1020 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102

📅 When: Every Second Friday

Vulcan Pioneers Of New Brunswick 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration!


Come on out for the Juneteenth Parade and Freedom Festival. The parade begins at 11 a.m. at George Street and Remsen Avenue and ends at Recreation Park, located at 7 Pine St., where the festival will take place. The event, free and open to all, happens from noon to 6 p.m. with food trucks, live music, activities for kids.

Morgan State University Athletics: White & Sneakers Soirée 👟🤍


Where U Style Meets Impact ✨

📅 Saturday, August 22, 2026

🕕 6:00 PM

📍 Lord Baltimore Hotel| Baltimore, MD


Join fellow Morganites for a stylish “White & Sneakers” evening filled with 🎶 music, 🤝 networking, and 🐻 Morgan pride all in support of Morgan State Athletics and our student-athletes.


Dress in your best all-white look 🤍 with standout sneakers 👟 and be part of a night where style meets purpose.


Don’t miss it support, connect, and celebrate! 🎉

Tickets Now Live: The Bent Wine Polo Classic '26


Join fellow alumni and supporters on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at the Mercer County Park Festival Grounds for The Bent Wine Polo Classic '26.


Hosted by Bent Wine Co., founded by Morgan State University alumnus Kevin Bent ('08), this premier event blends polo, wine, fashion, music, and networking into an unforgettable summer experience.

Chapter Newsletter Submissions

We’d love to hear from you! If you have any chapter news to share, such as Alumni Spotlights, upcoming HBCU events, sporting events, charity events, college fairs, committee meetings or announcements about recent passings, please email us at prvp@morganalumnj.org. We look forward to hearing your updates!

Issue: June 2026

Visit the MSUAA-New Jersey Chapter website and Social Media pages for the latest chapter news:

 

MSUAA-NJ Chapter, P.O. Box 6134, Somerset, New Jersey 08875

email address: msunaanj@gmail.com

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Morgan State University Alumni Association New Jersey Chapter