Trenton - In a landmark year, the New Jersey Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD) announces the commencement of the 2025 NJ Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program, welcoming 33 outstanding fellows—the largest cohort in the program's history. This milestone also coincides with CHPRD's 50th anniversary, marking a half-century of dedicated service and commitment to communities throughout New Jersey.

The Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program, crafted to nurture future leaders, offers New Jersey college students immersive eight-week fellowships that provide invaluable hands-on experience in diverse professional environments. Participants gain firsthand exposure across a variety of sectors, including public, private, and non-profit organizations, at leading institutions such as PSE&G, Bloomberg, Bristol Myers Squibb, Thomas Edison State University, Verizon, UPS, Novo Nordisk, and the Office of the New Jersey Governor, among others.

In addition to their work at their site location, each participant will attend leadership sessions this year hosted by HISPA. This coursework is designed to enhance their professional capabilities by focusing on developing skills in problem solving, teamwork, written communication, negotiation, public speaking, organization and time management, professional etiquette, and the art of giving and receiving feedback. HISPA’s continued collaboration ensures that participants are empowered with the skills, experience, and connections necessary to succeed in their future careers.

"We are thrilled to kick-off the 2025 NJ Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program with our largest cohort to date, underscoring our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders," said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees CHPRD in her role as Secretary of State. "As we celebrate CHPRD’s 50th anniversary, we take pride in continuing to provide these invaluable opportunities for leadership, growth and development."

For more information about the fellowship program, please go to: Governor's Hispanic Fellows Program.

About the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development (CHPRD):
Housed within the New Jersey Department of State, the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD) was established in 1975. The CHPRD has a director and an advisory committee, all appointed with approval of the Governor. The Secretary of State serves as an ex-officio member of the advisory committee.

Beyond its oversight of the Governor’s Hispanic Fellows Program, CHPRD works throughout the year to invest in New Jersey based organizations. It provides annual grant funding for qualified non-profit applicants working in entrepreneurship, citizenship and integration, workforce development, and community service (within the following subcategories: children at risk, health risks and disease prevention, senior citizens, mental health).

2024 Governor’s Hispanic Fellows Kickoff Orientation – ETS, Princeton NJ, 5/31/24