The New Jersey State Policy Lab will celebrate its fifth anniversary with an awards and fundraiser dinner on April 23 at the Rutgers Inn and Conference Center from 5 to 7 p.m., according to a March 26 announcement. The event aims to support ongoing and future research, policy initiatives, and funding for researchers, faculty, staff, and students involved with the lab.
The event is open to the public, but registration is required by Wednesday, April 15. Honorees at the celebration include Brian K. Bridges, former Secretary of Higher Education for New Jersey; Christina Foglio, founder and CEO of Community Investment Strategies; Senator Vin Gopal of District 11; and Senator Andrew Zwicker of District 16.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the lab’s efforts. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased through the event page. Questions about tickets or donations can be directed to Megan McCue via policylab@ejb.rutgers.edu.
In background information provided by organizers, Rutgers University was selected in 2021 by the Murphy administration to receive $1 million from the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to establish a policy lab focused on solutions for critical issues facing New Jersey. The State Policy Lab operates as a joint research initiative between Rutgers-New Brunswick’s Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and Rutgers-Newark’s School of Public Affairs and Administration.
Since its founding, NJSPL has conducted evidence-based research evaluating public policies with an emphasis on equity, efficiency, efficacy, innovation, and nonpartisanship.
According to the official website, the New Jersey Business and Industry Association serves as the nation’s largest statewide employer association representing employers across various sectors. The association advances competitive excellence among its members while providing essential information services. It serves private-sector employers throughout New Jersey by facilitating partnerships among businesses, government entities, academic institutions, advocacy, practical information, cost-saving benefits in support of business prosperity.
