Vice President of Student Services Honored as “Unsung She-ro” by South Orange and Maplewood

On Wednesday, March 20, South Orange Village and Maplewood Township (SOMA) hosted the first annual "Unsung Shero" Reception to celebrate Women’s History Month. The sold-out event, which took place at the Loft in the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), welcomed more than 150 guests. 2024 Honorees included women in the local community nominated by the joint Board of Trustees for outstanding contributions and achievement in their fields and beyond. 

Monica Burnette, Ph.D., vice president for Student Services, was recognized for her contribution to the field of education. As the Vice President of Student Services, Burnette manages the areas of Academic Success, Campus Inclusion and Community, Student Engagement, Student Wellness and Support, and Public Safety and Security. She is also the Co-Chair of the University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Council for Student Success.

Burnette was introduced by Village Trustee and Seton Hall alum Summer Jones ’98. At the event, Burnette shared, “Like many educators, there are so many reasons we chose this field. First, we have the opportunity to empower students to become active, engaged and compassionate learners who can positively contribute to society. Second, we work with and advocate for passionate teams that create supportive, welcoming and inclusive campus environments. And third, we advance community connections through ongoing collaboration.”

Burnette is grateful for the continuing partnership between South Orange and Maplewood. Her work on the University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee includes participating in the South Orange Strategic Partnerships and Citizens Engagement (SPACE) Committee and facilitating sponsorships for organizations such as SOMA Cross-Cultural Works. Seton Hall has sponsored several local events, including Lunar NJ Fest, Holi Festival of Lights, and Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Burnette and the Public Safety and Security Team also work closely with local law and fire safety officials to keep our broader community safe and secure.

Burnette closed her brief remarks with a quote from Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut, “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.” She added, “As a community, I believe we are stronger together - let’s continue to encourage all of our students to be fearless in their imagination, creativity and curiosity. “

As an honoree, Burnette received a “Women of Excellence” Proclamation from the Towns of South Orange and Maplewood. 

For more information about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts, or Women’s History Month events on campus or South Orange and Maplewood, click the links or email [email protected]. 

Categories: Arts and Culture, Education