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PRINCETON, NJ (July 17, 2026) – The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) in partnership with The Administrators Network welcomed educators, school administrators, policymakers, higher education leaders, nonprofit organizations, and business professionals from across the state to its 2nd Annual Educators of Color Symposium on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Conference Center in Princeton.
The day-long symposium served as a platform for meaningful dialogue, professional development, networking, and collaboration focused on strengthening New Jersey's educational landscape while empowering educators to continue serving as catalysts for student success and community advancement.
The program opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. John E. Harmon, IOM, Founder, President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, who emphasized the critical role educators play in preparing the next generation of leaders while highlighting the Chamber's ongoing commitment to workforce development, educational equity, and economic empowerment.
The symposium featured an inspiring keynote address delivered by Senator Benjie E. Wimberly, whose message challenged attendees to continue advocating for educational excellence, expanding opportunities for all students, and embracing leadership that creates lasting change within schools and communities.
Attendees also heard impactful special remarks from New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dale Caldwell, who spoke about the importance of collaboration among educators, government, businesses, and community organizations in creating pathways for student achievement and workforce readiness.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in educational workshops, thought-provoking panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to equip educators with practical strategies, innovative ideas, and valuable resources they can implement within their schools and districts.
The symposium also provided attendees with the opportunity to connect with exhibitors, community partners, and organizations committed to supporting education, leadership development, and student success across New Jersey.
"Education remains one of the most powerful investments we can make in our future. Our educators are shaping tomorrow's workforce, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and innovators. Through the Educators of Color Symposium, we are creating opportunities for collaboration, professional growth, and meaningful dialogue that strengthens our schools, empowers our educators, and ultimately benefits every student across New Jersey. The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey is proud to serve as a bridge between education, business, and community to help prepare the next generation for success." -Dr. John E. Harmon Sr, Founder, President & CEO African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ.
“The Educators of Color 2026 Leadership Symposium demonstrated the power of bringing educators and leaders together for meaningful professional learning, collaboration, and connection. The Administrators Network is proud to help create spaces that elevate diverse voices, strengthen educational leadership, and build the collective capacity to help educators and students thrive across New Jersey.”-The Administrators Network.
Senator Benjie E. Wimberly stated “Educators are the keepers of hope. Every day, across academic disciplines we recognize promise, awaken confidence, and open doors that can change the course of a young person’s life. There is no calling more deserving of our respect and no work more essential to our future. When students see excellence, leadership, and achievement reflected in the educators before them, they begin to recognize those same qualities within themselves. I extend my highest salute to the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey for creating this vital opportunity for us to gather, connect, and inspire the leaders of tomorrow. By honoring and uplifting our educators, we strengthen every classroom, every community, and the promise of a brighter New Jersey.”
The success of the symposium reflects the growing commitment throughout New Jersey to invest in educators, strengthen partnerships between education and business, and create innovative solutions that prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom.
"I was proud to join the outstanding educators at AACNJ’s Educators of Color Symposium to share our Administration’s vision for education. Education is New Jersey's opportunity engine, powered by teachers who help students see what's possible. Governor Sherrill and I made education a top priority in our first budget, with bold investments in K-12 schools, high-impact tutoring, and in-school mental health support. And we'll keep working to support an empowered educator workforce that reflects the diversity, talent, and promise of our state." -Lt. Governor Dr. Dale Caldwell.
The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey extends its sincere appreciation to its presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, planning committee, and every attendee whose participation made the symposium a tremendous success.
Planning is already underway for the 3rd Annual Educators of Color Symposium, which will continue to build upon the momentum created by this year's event.
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