Bergen Student Named to State Board

Ron Surbramaniam, of Teaneck, and president of Bergen Community College’s Student Government Council, was recently appointed to New Jersey’s Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) Student Advisory Committee (SAC) as a voting member. HESSA is a state-run entity that provides students with information and resources on financing their education beyond high school. The SAC meets with HESAA officials to provide a student-centered perspective on current and upcoming initiatives and to act as liaisons of New Jersey students.
Bergen President Dr. G. Jeremiah Ryan appreciates Surbramaniam’s efforts. “Ron has a great sense of how to help his peers,” President Ryan said. “He will provide the HESAA board with insight and guidance.”

Surbramaniam said his motivation to serve on the committee stems from a desire to encourage his fellow students to apply for financial aid such as grants, scholarships and loans. “Especially given the country’s current economic situation, it is my priority to educate students on the avenues available to them,” he said. “Many students don’t know where they can go for assistance.”

Surbramaniam, a second-year student at the College pursuing an Associate in Applied Science, remains a non-traditional student – he is pursuing a second career. After working in business and finance, Surbramaniam decided to devote himself to public service, citing his desire to enhance his community and region. He intends to attend a four-year college after he graduates from Bergen; later, he will pursue a Master in Public Health.

President Ryan applauded Surbramaniam’s devotion to community. “Given the strong belief I possess in the power of service, I am pleased that Ron will use his talents to assist his local community,” he said. “Branching out beyond the walls of the classroom remains a key component of my administration and vision for the College. The fact that our student government president subscribes to that philosophy is very important. Ron is a model for other students.”

The SAC gathers 23 student-leaders from 15 institutions of higher education in New Jersey. The committee includes representatives from public, private, two -and four-year institutions. SAC officers maintain student-voting privileges on the HESAA board as well.

Each year, HESAA provides over $1.2 billion in financial aid through grants, scholarships and loans, including the Tuition Aid grant program. The organization frequently holds presentations in communities throughout the state.

Bergen Community College is a public two-year coeducational college, enrolling more than 15,000 students in Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Associate in Applied Science degree programs and certificate programs. More than 10,000 students are enrolled in non-credit, professional courses through the Division of Continuing Education, the Institute for Learning in Retirement, the Philip J. Ciarco Jr. Learning Center, located at 355 Main Street, Hackensack, and Bergen at the Meadowlands, located at 1280 Wall Street West, Lyndhurst. Information about the College is available at www.bergen.edu or by phoning the Welcome Center at (201) 447-7200.