Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill on Jan. 8 announced her choice for higher education secretary: Margo Chaly, who since 2021 has served in New Jersey’s Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) as chief of staff and executive director.
“Margo brings years of leadership experience in helping students and families afford higher education, which will be critical as we fight back against cuts from the federal government,” Sherrill said. “New Jersey has some of the best colleges and universities in the world, yet far too many of our students are pursuing their degrees out of state. Every New Jerseyan deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education in the Garden State.”
In a press release issued Jan. 9, AFTNJ President Jennifer S. Higgins said, “We welcome the opportunity to work with Margo Chaly on an affordable, student-centered system during this challenging and transitional time for higher education in New Jersey.”
Susanna Tardi, executive vice president of AFTNJ’s higher education division, added that Chaly “brings a deep understanding of our state’s higher education landscape to her new role.”
ABOVE: Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill (left) with Margo Chaly, her choice for higher education secretary. (Photo courtesy of Gov.-elect Sherrill’s office)
