Job seekers in Union County are invited to attend the upcoming Diversity and Inclusion Job Fair in honor of Black History Month beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 22 at the Plainfield Public Library, 800 Park Avenue in Plainfield. Leading employers in Union County will be participating, including Wakefern, RWJ Trinitas and more.
The event is a partnership between the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Plainfield Public Library, the Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the American Job Center.
“By reaching out to our business community during Black History Month with the Diversity and Inclusion Job Fair, we hope to break down some of the barriers to employment and create new opportunities for our residents to reach their full potential,” said Union County Commissioner Board Sergio Granados, who is Commissioner Board Liaison to the Union County Workforce Development Board.
Attendance is free of charge but pre-registration is required online at ucnj.org/job-fair.
Attendees should dress for interviews and bring their resume.
Employers will have representatives on site to speak with attendees. Participating employers include the following companies, and more:
COACH USA
Wakefern
Carefinders
RWJ Trinitas
FedEx
Clean Harbors
Amazon
BAYADA
On-Time Ambulance
VisionWorks
Employers who are interested registering to participate in the job fair can email Carolina Marin, Union County American Job Center Senior Manager Business Development at Astrid.marin@ucnj.org.
The Union County American Job Center is a division of the Union County Department of Human Services, providing in-person career services. Counselors on staff work with job seekers to identify their interests, assess their skills and abilities, and advise them on in-demand jobs and potential training opportunities. The Union County American Job Center also organizes recruiting events and workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, and more.
To learn more about employment services offered by the Union County American Job Center, visit ucajc.org and use the “Job Seekers” link. Searchable job-finding tools are also available at the “Search Jobs” and “Find a Job” links.
An orientation video about the services provided by Union County American Job Center is available on the Union County website at ucnj.org/dhs/workforce-development.
To contact the American Job Center by phone, call the Elizabeth office at 908-558-8000, or call the Plainfield office at 908-757-9090.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents with overseas travel plans that the U.S. Department of State is continuing to experience extended wait times for processing passport renewals and new passport applications.
The U.S. Department of State is introducing a new, upgraded passport.
“Before you make travel plans, please be sure to check the expiration date on your passport,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “Most countries will not admit travelers with passports that will expire within six months, so be sure that your renewal is completed before the six-month period begins.”
The State Department is experiencing a wait time of 8-11 weeks for passport renewals and 5-7 weeks for expedited renewals. The same waiting period applies to new passport applications.
“We also remind travelers to make sure you are fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 before going overseas,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “Most countries require it, and vaccination is the surest way to reduce the risk of serious illness, long term health impacts, or death from the virus.”
Travelers who are renewing their passports for the first time this year will notice the State Department has redesigned the passport book.
The new “Next Generation Passport” was designed with added security and aesthetic elements including a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personalization and updated artwork. The art features detailed linework and ink colors that showcase U.S. architecture, history, culture, landscapes, and traditions.
The Next Generation Passport is being introduced for new passports and renewals only. Current passport holders may continue to use their books and cards until they expire.
For the latest updates on passport wait times at the State Department, and for additional details about renewing or obtaining a U.S. passport, visit travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.
The Union County Clerk is authorized to accept passport applications and forward them to the State Department for processing. This service is available in person and by appointment only.
For more information about all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and their caregivers to come to Union County’s ASK community events in March, and meet in person with professional staff for expert guidance on senior programs and resources. Help with filling out forms is also provided.
Bilingual staff will be present at all of these events to offer assistance in Spanish.
“The ASK program offers the opportunity to visit in person with our knowledgeable staff, in the familiar environment of a local library or community center. We encourage all seniors and care givers to visit a nearby ASK program to connect with accurate, reliable information about helpful resources and programs,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados.
ASK stands for Aging Services Kiosk, a program of the Union County Department of Human Services through the Division on Aging and Disability Resources, serving seniors age 60-plus and their caregivers.
The ASK program provides Union County residents with a friendly, convenient way to find out about helpful programs and services for seniors and caregivers. The program brings professional staff from the Division on Aging to local public libraries and other community centers.
Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and care givers connect with a variety of services including home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and support services for caregivers.
Any Union County senior or care giver can visit any ASK event, regardless of their hometown.
No appointment or pre-registration is needed. The upcoming ASK events in February all include bilingual assistance in Spanish:
Thursday, March 2nd
Union Public Library
1060 Stuyvesant Avenue
Union, NJ 07083
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday, March 8th
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue
Garwood, NJ 07027
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Monday, March 13th
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue
Clark, NJ 07066
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday, March 15th
Elizabeth Public Library – Main
11 S. Broad Street
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection for information on upcoming ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County. Call 1-888-280-8226 toll free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.
The goal of the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection is to promote wellness, independence, dignity and choice for seniors and their families, in accordance with a statewide initiative adopted by Union County in 2012. The Division is one of 622 Area Agencies on Aging nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
In celebration of National Women’s History Month 2023, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to present Jen Maxfield, Emmy award winning reporter and anchor for NBC New York, to discuss her first book, More After the Break: A Reporter Returns to Ten Unforgettable News Stories, on Tuesday, March 7, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Union College of Union County.
The event will take place at the Student Center at the Union College Cranford Campus, 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford.
The event is free of charge but registration is required in advance at ucnj.org/maxfield23.
“We are honored to bring Jen Maxfield to our Union County community, especially during Women’s History Month,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “She has had a long tenure in the journalism world covering stories at all levels and it is through her work, as well as mentoring students and professionals along the way, that makes her a true inspiration to all.”
“Jen Maxfield is a wonderful example of the enriching contributions that women have made to the profession of journalism throughout the history of our nation, and we are very proud to welcome her to Union County,” said Commissioner Vice Chair Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.
Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance designates a theme for Women’s History Month. The 2023 theme is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” in celebration of women who have engaged in both journalism and storytelling across a wide range of media including print, radio, TV, stage, screen, blogs, podcasts, news, and social media.
Jen Maxfield is an Emmy-award winning reporter and anchor for NBC New York. Her first book, More After the Break: A Reporter Returns to Ten Unforgettable News Stories was be published by Greenleaf Book Group last year, providing a unique and compelling perspective on the present-day experiences and recollections of families that weathered high profile news events years ago.
Maxfield is also an adjunct professor at the Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University where she teaches broadcast journalism, and she has extensive experience as a professional coach.
This special Women’s History Month program in Union County is made possible by funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission, and is presented by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information about this event and other activities and programs of the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit ucnj.org/cultural, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
In recognition of Arbor Day, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is once again partnering with the Union County Shade Tree Advisory Board to sponsor the annual Arbor Day Poetry Contest for students in Union County. The deadline for entry is March 10, 2023.
“Encouraging our youth to appreciate and preserve our natural heritage is very important, and we are especially proud of the students who share their messages of environmental conservation with the Union County community, through their poetry,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Trees make an enormous difference to the quality of life in our area and the national Arbor Day celebration provides all of us with an opportunity to recognize the important role they play.”
“We can learn so much when we listen to the voices of the young people in our community. Their creativity and their insights inspire us to be good stewards of the natural world we have inherited, for the next generation to enjoy, preserve, and protect,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon, the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Shade Tree Advisory Board.
Participation in the Arbor Day Poetry Contest is organized through the schools. Each school in Union County has received information on entering their students in the contest. For additional information, principals and staff can contact Madeline Brigantino, Union County Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management at mbrigantino@ucnj.org or 908-789-3653.
The poetry contest offers students of Union County, currently enrolled in grades 4 through 8, an opportunity to obtain a greater understanding of Arbor Day by encouraging them to portray the importance of trees in the natural environment and man-made landscapes, by focusing on the benefits, beauty, and contributions of trees to our communities.
All poems received will be categorized by grade and judged. One winner will be chosen for first, second, and third place at each grade level. The winners will be invited to attend an awards ceremony on April 27th at 6:00 p.m., and will be publicly recognized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
Arbor Day has been a national observance since 1872, encouraging the public to plant and care for trees. This year it will be celebrated on Friday, April 28.
For quick links to all environmental programs and services hosted by Union County visit The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
More than 50 federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies will come together to participate in a joint recruitment event on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Kean University’s STEM Building, located at 1075 Morris Avenue in Union, New Jersey.
In early 2022, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, partnering with Kean University, hosted a similar law enforcement recruitment event that hosted over 40 agencies, and saw over 1,000 participants, and resulted in hundreds of hires at various agencies around the state. The full extent of the recruitment event’s success is unmeasurable¸ as agency hires are still being seen. This year’s event is slated to host over 50 participating law enforcement agencies looking to recruit the next generation of officers.
“The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is pleased to once again partner with Kean University for the Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair,” Union County Prosecutor William Daniel stated. “Agencies around the state are still seeing results in their hiring trends from last year’s event. We look forward to being able to continue providing the public with opportunities to learn about and apply for positions in this line of work. As we look to diversify the law enforcement community, we welcome all those who are interested in learning more about this rewarding, challenging, and purpose-filled career path.”
“The soliciting of new officers at this recruitment fair will be vital in ensuring that the law enforcement culture continues to evolve to fit societal expectations,” Union County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Harvey Barnwell said. “Diversifying the rank and file of the various agencies allows for more hires of new officers who can provide cultural pedagogy to deliver efficacy and respect to each community being served. The upcoming law enforcement recruitment fair affords a rich opportunity to bring this notion to fruition, and we hope to have members of all communities attend to learn more about how they can begin their path in law enforcement.”
Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet is proud to be able to partner with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office on this important event. “It is an honor to host this law enforcement recruitment event at Kean in partnership with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Kean’s many criminal justice graduates are proudly serving at all levels of law enforcement throughout the state and nation, and we are pleased to give our students and the community the opportunity to learn more about public service careers in law enforcement.”
“A career in law enforcement is a great path to take where our residents can make a difference in the lives of their fellow community members, while receiving good pay, benefits and improving the quality of life at the same time,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Last year was such a success and the demand is still high for officers. This event is the perfect way to visit all of the different agencies involved and see where you fit the most. I encourage all residents who are looking towards this route to attend and see what there is to offer.”
New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari echoed the importance of this recruitment event. “As new policing efforts continue to develop throughout New Jersey, we are investing in the next generation of officers. This year’s recruitment fair will host more than fifty law enforcement agencies and allow everyone who is interested in this career path the opportunity to learn more.”
New Jersey Senator Joseph Cryan showed his support for all those interested in a career in law enforcement. “As a former Union County Sheriff, I know the professionalism that exists among our local law enforcement officials. Any young man or woman seeking a rewarding career in public service would be well served to explore the opportunities at the Union County Prosecutors Office Recruitment Fair.”
“The upcoming recruitment fair is a phenomenal opportunity for those interested in a career in law enforcement to discover available opportunities to protect and serve our community,” said Senator Jon Bramnick. “Becoming a law enforcement officer is a tremendous responsibility with incredible rewards and I encourage anyone with an interest in the field to attend.”
Law enforcement partners from federal, state, county, and municipal agencies will be in attendance. Applicants are encouraged to dress professionally and bring their resumes.
Agencies that will be in attendance include: ATF (Newark), Homeland Security Investigations (Newark), Federal Bureau of Investigation (Newark), Drug Enforcement Association, U.S. Secret Service, New Jersey Division of Civil Rights, Prosecutor’s Offices of Bergen, Camden, Somerset, Sussex, Middlesex, Monmouth, Hudson, Essex and Union Counties, New Jersey State Parole, New Jersey Department of Corrections, Essex County Corrections, Division of Criminal Justice, New Jersey Division of Civil Rights, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey / New York Port Authority Police, Human Services Police, Union County Sheriff, New Jersey Transit Police, Palisades Interstate Parkway Police, Newark Bronze Shields, NOBLE, MALEA, HALEA, Women in Law Enforcement, NAACP, New Jersey Civil Service Commission, Prevention Links, and the Police Departments of Scotch Plains, Linden, Union County, Westfield, Berkeley Heights, Roselle, Plainfield, Newark, Fanwood, Clark, Rahway, Hillside, Kenilworth, New Providence, Maplewood, East Orange, Orange, Irvington, North Wildwood, Franklin Township, Kean University, Rutgers University, Princeton University, Stevens Institute, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Alexandria (VA).
In addition, individuals seeking a career as assistant prosecutors will have the opportunity to discuss those careers with current assistant prosecutors and be advised of the process necessary to pursue that position.
The Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair is jointly hosted by Kean University and the Union County
Prosecutor’s Office, and with the support of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari, New Jersey Senators Joseph Cryan and Jon Bramnick, Elizabeth Branch NAACP President Shawn McClain, and New Jersey NOBLE President Jiles Ship.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises Springfield residents that sample ballots for the upcoming Special School Election in Springfield will be mailed to voters beginning on Wednesday, March 1.
The Special School Election will be held on Tuesday, March 14.
“The sample ballots provide every eligible voter with an opportunity to review the school questions ahead of time,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. “We advise voters to check their mail for the sample ballots and open them promptly, to avoid losing or misplacing them.”
A Vote-by-Mail ballot drop box is available at the Chisholm Community Center at 100 South Springfield Avenue in Springfield.
The sample ballots are also available online at the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com.
Voters who have not chosen to receive their Vote-by-Mail ballot automatically can apply for a Vote-by-Mail ballot online through the County Clerk’s elections website, in person at the County Clerk’s Annex Office in Westfield, or by mail. The deadline to apply by mail is Tuesday, March 7.
The County Clerk’s Annex Office is located in the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County Complex, 300 North Avenue East in Westfield. The hours are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 .pm.
For more information about the County Clerk’s election services visit unioncountyvotes.com or contact the Elections Division at 908-527-4996 or ucvote@ucnj.org.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
In recognition of Arbor Day 2023, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is once again partnering with the Union County Shade Tree Advisory Board to provide free trees for local schools.
Flowering Eastern Redbud (courtesy of Rutgers NJAES).
“These trees will stand on school grounds for years to come, as living reminders of the importance of conserving and protecting our natural resources,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We encourage schools to apply for a free tree in celebration of Arbor Day, and provide their students with a wonderful hands-on experience in environmental stewardship.”
“Planting trees is one of the most simple, yet effective ways in which to improve the quality of life in our communities. We hope that participating in this Arbor Day program inspires our youth to continue helping with environmental projects in their communities and beyond,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon, who is the Commissioner Board Liaison to the Shade Tree Advisory Board.
Studies have shown that trees improve property values and provide many other civic and environmental benefits, such as absorbing airborne pollutants, keeping neighborhoods cool in the summer, preventing soil erosion, and helping to alleviate flooding.
In addition to the tree giveaway, the Commissioner Board also sponsors an annual Arbor Day poetry contest, provides municipalities with tree-for-tree matching grants, and supports the Master Tree Stewards volunteer tree conservation program.
This year’s free Arbor Day tree is a tree native to the northeast, the Flowering Eastern Redbud. They are about five feet tall and weigh about 20 pounds. When fully grown they will be about 15-20 feet tall.
The trees are available to schools on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last.
The deadline for free tree requests is April 1. Schools may contact Madeline Brigantino, Assistant to the Director, Union County Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management, mbrigantino@ucnj.org or 908-789-3653 to request a tree.
For schools that receive a tree, free sessions in tree planting and care are available to students, teachers, and parent volunteers through the Rutgers Cooperative Extension 4-H Master Tree Steward Program. The tree care sessions will be held at Oak Ridge Park in Clark on Tuesday, April 18 and Wednesday, April 19.
Arbor Day has been a National Observance since 1872, encouraging the public to plant and care for trees. This year Arbor Day falls on Friday, April 28.
To find out more about the value of trees in urban communities, use the free, user-friendly iTree online tool developed by the U.S. Forestry Service, the Arbor Day Foundation and other partners. Visit iTreeTools.org for details.
For more information about the 4-H and Master Tree Steward programs, contact Jim Nichnadowicz, Rutgers 4-H agent, 908-654-9854 or jnichdadowicz@ucnj.org. No experience is needed to join the Tree Steward program. A training course is held each year, featuring guided walks in area parks and nature preserves.
The Rutgers Cooperative Extension is supported in part by the Commissioner Board and is headquartered in the Colleen Frasier Building at the Union County complex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East. For information on all Extension programs, including Master Tree Stewards, Master Gardeners, Environmental Stewards, and the 4-H youth development program visit ucnj.org/rce.
For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit The Green Connection online at ucnj.org/green-connection.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of the new Commissioners’ Literary Circle Book Club, presented in celebration of Women’s History Month 2023 by the women of the Commissioner Board: Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, and Commissioners Bette Jane Kowalski, Rebecca Williams, Lourdes Leon and Dr. Angela R. Garretson.
Union County residents who are interested in joining the new Commissioners’ Literary Circle Book Club can register online at ucnj.org/bookclub23 to participate in community discussions on Zoom.
“I fully support our women Commissioners in launching this new initiative, and what better month to do so than Women’s History Month,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This is a great way for all women across Union County to connect with like-minded readers, and a fantastic opportunity to hear different perspectives, ask questions and overall connect as a County. I encourage everyone who loves to read or is looking to meet new people in their community to join.”
“As Commissioners in the first majority-female Commissioner Board in New Jersey history, we are proud to raise our voices in celebration of women writers who share their enriching insights with readers both here in the United States and around the world,” said Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.
Each month, members of the Commissioners Literary Circle Book Club will read and discuss a book recommended by a female member of the Commissioner Board. Spanning works of fiction as well as biographies and other non-fiction, the selections will highlight strong female characters, authors, and historical figures.
The first Commissioners’ Literary Circle book is More Stories We Tell: The Best Contemporary Short Stories by North American Women, selected by Commissioner Williams.
“The theme of Women’s History Month 2023 is ‘Celebrating Women Who Tell our Stories,’ and More Stories We Tell conveys the rich variety of storytelling among contemporary women writers,” said Commissioner Williams. “The collection includes 24 works by Joyce Carol Oates, Margaret Atwood, Mary Gaitskill, Alice Munro, Sandra Cisneros, Lorrie Moore, and many more literary lights.”
More Stories We Tell: The Best Contemporary Short Stories by North American Women was published by Pantheon in 2004 and edited by Wendy Martin, chair of the Department of English at Claremont Graduate University in California. It is a followup to her 1990 collection, We are the Stories We Tell.
The Commissioners Literary Circle is a project of the Union County Office on Women in the Department of Economic Development. For more information visit online at ucnj.org/women or contact the Office Coordinator, Jen Erdos, at jerdos@ucnj.org
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
[Updated] The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites resident with disabilities and special needs ages 16 and up to attend a reserved viewing of Sight Unseen, an international exhibit of artwork by blind photographers, in partnership with Kean University Galleries. The event will take place at the Kean University Human Rights Institute on Friday, March 24, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Participation is free of charge but registration in advance is required. To register, visit Union County’s secure online registration page at https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj. Please note that space is limited.
“Sight Unseen is an incredible event that will really get the attention of all of those who attend, especially our residents with disabilities and special needs, for whom Kean University is providing a viewing on the evening of the 24th,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This special viewing will help empower these members of the Union County community to know that anyone can be creative, no matter what the disability may be. Art is expressive. It impacts our imagination and perception as we see the artist’s overall sense of their own innovative process. I would like to thank Kean University for working with Union County’s vision of inclusiveness to extend this invitation.”
“This exhibition of fascinating photographs, made all the more incredible by the fact that they were taken by blind photographers, aligns with Kean’s focus on accessibility, equity and inclusion,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed. D. “Kean is proud to present a reserved viewing of photos that challenge us to broaden our perspectives and see art in a new light.”
“The photographers featured in Sight Unseen remind viewers that it’s not about sight, it’s about vision. An inclusive world is a better world. The Galleries are honored to partner with the Union County Office of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs to connect the community to impactful art,” said Lynette Zimmerman, the Executive Director of Galleries at Kean University.
The exhibit is taking place until Friday, April 14 at the Human Rights Institute Gallery, located at the Human Rights Institute at the Kean University Campus, 1000 Morris Avenue in Union Township. Parking is available in the Visitor’s Lot next to Kean Hall.
Information about visiting hours for the general public is available from Kean University Galleries at galleries.kean.edu/exhibitions.
The reserved viewing of Sight Unseen is a program of the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services. The Office hosts seasonal events and recreational activities throughout the year. To register for all activities, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs visit ucnj.org/special-needs. To contact the office, use the online form at ucnj.org/special-needs, or call 908-527-4807 or 908-527-4781.
For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
