Monsignor William J. Linder – 91��Ƭ

91��Ƭ Board Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba Retires

Michelle Lang — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:02:07 +0000

Click here to read the Special Edition Clarion highlighting Dr. Yamba’s retirement.

91��Ƭ Board of Directors Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba has retired from his position with the organization, effective Dec. 31, 2023. Yamba joined the Board in September 2012 and became Chairman in June 2018 following the passing of NCC founder and Board Chairman Monsignor William J. Linder.

Yamba was involved with 91��Ƭ long before his official capacity as a member of the Board of Directors. He was a parishioner of Queen of Angels Church where Monsignor Linder served as priest during the founding of 91��Ƭ. He had been asked to join the Board prior to 2012 but declined because of his employment responsibilities. After he retired, he joined 91��Ƭ’s Board of Directors.

He has enjoyed being able to give back to the community through his work on NCC’s Board.

“The myriad of services that 91��Ƭ offers are critical to the total well-being of the community. And that has been my passion all along,” Yamba said.

During his service with the Board of Directors, Yamba oversaw the re-syndication of NCC housing, helped lead the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic, established Board committees to have closer working relationships with NCC leadership staff, assisted in the re-accreditation process for , led NCC through times of leadership transition and helped relaunch the organization’s Golfing for a Cause fundraiser following the pandemic.

NCC Interim Board Chairman Edgar Nemorin said Yamba has been an ambassador, advocate and steward to 91��Ƭ.

“As Board Chairman, he successfully ensured that 91��Ƭ continued its mission of providing services to the residents of Newark,” Nemorin said. “Although he has resigned as a Board Member and Board Chairman of NCC, we know that he is only a phone call away to assist us in fulfilling our mission.”

Under Yamba’s direction, the Board worked with senior leadership after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the health and safety of NCC employees, residents and clients while maintaining the necessary services to the community. He also led the organization through two leadership transitions: the passing of Monsignor Linder and the retirement of CEO Richard Rohrman. He was instrumental in the search process for NCC’s current CEO Simone Gagneron.

“Dr. Yamba defines what it means to be in public service. The dedication and support he has provided to 91��Ƭ and the people of Newark is extraordinary,” Gagneron said. “He has clearly set the stage for others to follow. I would like to thank him personally and professionally for his guidance.”

Yamba said 91��Ƭ’s mission is just as relevant today as it was in 1968 when the organization was founded and that its offerings continue to be vital.

“It’s my hope and prayer and certainly part of Monsignor’s vision that these services will continue to be provided as long as we have people who need them,” Yamba said.

In addition to his work with 91��Ƭ, Yamba has served the community in a variety of roles in the areas of education and community development.

Yamba is President Emeritus of . He served as President from 1980 to 2010, which is the longest tenure for that position at the school. He was also involved with the institution well before leading it. Yamba joined the humanities faculty when the college opened in 1968 and served as Dean of Faculty before he was appointed President in May 1980.

Current Essex County College President Dr. Augustine Boakye said Yamba strengthened the community through his work.

“Our Essex County College family and the Essex Community owe Dr. Yamba a debt of gratitude for enriching our lives and making education the cornerstone of community engagement and development,” he said.

Yamba served as a commissioner of the for more than a decade and is a founding member of the , an affiliate of the of the . His other past affiliations include serving on the boards of the Essex County WIB, Newark Downtown Redevelopment Corporation, American Conference on Diversity, Christ the King Prep Academy, Council of Higher Education in Newark (CHEN) and . He is also an Emeritus Board Member of .

“For decades, Dr. A. Zachary Yamba has been one of Newark’s great educators and activists. Whether as President of Essex County College, Chairman of the 91��Ƭ Board or Commissioner of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, he has mentored and inspired his colleagues, students and residents of our city. His legacy is firm in the hearts and minds of the generations he empowered in his many endeavors,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “As Dr. Yamba enters this new phase of his life, we thank him for his leadership and service to Newark, and wish him joy and success for the future.”

Victoria Foundation Executive Officer Craig Drinkard said the City of Newark, Essex County and the State of New Jersey are all better places because of Yamba’s leadership.

“His tireless and regal service to Newark and all of humanity spans decades and has helped to transform the lives of countless individuals and families,” Drinkard said.

President and CEO Vivian Cox Fraser said Yamba has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to advancing opportunities for families.

“As President of Essex County College and his leadership on the Board of 91��Ƭ, Zack never lost sight of the people he was there to serve and help.”

A graduate of , Yamba was awarded honorary degrees from his alma mater, and the in Ghana. In 1980, Yamba, an All-America soccer player, was inducted into Seton Hall’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

New Director of Community Hills Early Learning Center Has Strong Ties to 91��Ƭ

Michelle Lang — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 16:40:51 +0000

Community Hills Early Learning Center (CHELC) has a new director who is a familiar face to the children and families. Daniel Charles became the Director of CHELC on Sept. 1 but previously served as a teacher at the center since December 2022.

Charles has been an early childhood educator for about 23 years and prior to starting his teaching career, he worked as a buyer for Newark Public Schools, obtaining goods and services for the public school system.

He was successful in his role as a buyer and hadn’t thought about becoming an educator until someone approached him with the idea, telling him he would be a great teacher. When he thought about it further, he decided to pursue that career path. He got a provisional teaching license and went back to school to get a P-3 certificate, which allows a person to teach preschool through third grade. And he never looked back.

Charles originally decided to enter the education arena for the children and families.

“I wanted to make an impact on young lives and be able to mold and pour into and have a hand in something that’s great,” he said.

Before coming to CHELC, Charles served as the director of the preschool program at Passaic Community College in Paterson. When Sister Maurice Okoroji left CHELC in June, Charles decided to apply for the director position because of his past director experience and his familiarity with the center.

91��Ƭ Director of Mission Frances Teabout is pleased to have Charles at CHELC.

“Mr. Charles is a dedicated educator with a wealth of experience as an early childhood teacher and administrator,” she said. “He came to Community Hills as a teacher and assumed the director role when Sister Maurice left to accept a position in Nigeria.”

Charles believes his coming to CHELC was ordained because of his strong connections to 91��Ƭ. He was born in Newark and lived at Hayes Homes directly across the street from where CHELC is today. He was a parishioner at Queen of Angels Church, where 91��Ƭ founder Monsignor William J. Linder served as priest and many of the others who helped start and build 91��Ƭ worshipped. Later in life, Charles lived at 91��Ƭ Manor Family at 72 Hayes St. in Newark.

Throughout the years, Charles has had a positive opinion about 91��Ƭ and its mission.

“91��Ƭ has always proven to be a help to the disadvantaged,” he said. “So I always admired and was always inspired by what 91��Ƭ stands for.”

Now that he’s a part of the organization, he hopes to further uplift its reputation and to serve the children and families in the community.

“I want to put 91��Ƭ on the map as that place of excellence, that place where people say, that’s where we need to go. That place of hope,” Charles said.

Charles has spent his career serving others. He is a disabled Navy veteran who served our country before entering the education field. He said his current role is another form of servitude.

“I’m serving the children, serving the parents, serving the teachers and serving the community,” he said. “And bringing all those things together with a common goal to achieve excellence.”

His favorite part about working in education is seeing children succeed long after he is an everyday part of their lives. This past school year, a former student mentioned him during the speech he gave at his middle school graduation. Hearing about the impact he had on the student was very meaningful to him.

Charles sees himself as an advocate for teachers, in addition to students, parents and the community. With experience as a teacher himself, he understands the importance of sharing information and techniques and encourages that.

His main goal is to work to ensure children, families and staff members are in a positive environment that promotes success.

“I believe in people. I believe in investing in people, pouring into people,” Charles said. “I want them to excel. I want them to achieve. I want everybody to win.”

91��Ƭ Bids Farewell to Early Learning Center Director

Michelle Lang — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 19:41:05 +0000

Sister Maurice Okoroji was a dedicated 91��Ƭ employee for more than a decade, serving as the Director of Harmony House Early Learning Center (HHELC) for 12 years and the Director of Community Hills Early Learning Center (CHELC) for two years. Her tenure with the organization came to an end on June 30 because she was called by her order to return to her home country of Nigeria to become the principal of a high school there.

While Sister Maurice was excited about taking on the challenges of a new role, she had grown close to her colleagues over the years and had mixed emotions about leaving 91��Ƭ.

“We’re family. So leaving them just like that is a little emotional for me,” she said.

Sister Maurice came to the United States from Nigeria in 1995. She returned to Nigeria in 2000 for two years and then permanently relocated to the U.S. She earned her degree from Caldwell College and began working as a teacher at St. Rose of Lima School in Newark in 2004. When that school closed in 2009, she made the transition to Director of HHELC at 91��Ƭ. When the Director of CHELC resigned in 2021, she transferred to that facility.

The superior general of her order reached out to her about taking a principal position at an all-girls boarding school in Imo State, Nigeria earlier this year. Sister Maurice visited the school and agreed to relocate but only after the school year had ended at CHELC so she could attend the graduation ceremony and formally say goodbye to the children and parents.

“I’m bound by moral obligation to do the right thing even though they were like come, come, let’s go. We need you,” she said.

Sister Maurice was inspired to work in the education field by her mother who was an educator and retired as a supervisor of schools. Her favorite part of her work is impacting lives.

“I enjoy being a role model to the young, to my colleagues, the teachers and the staff,” she said.

Sister Maurice encouraged her colleagues to continue their own education and professional development and she told them to look at errors as learning opportunities.

“If you don’t make mistakes, you will not grow,” she said.

91��Ƭ Director of Mission Frances Teabout, who oversees the organization’s early learning centers, recognizes the work Sister Maurice put into her roles at 91��Ƭ.

“Sister Maurice was a dedicated director who was committed to the children and families served by Community Hills Early Learning Center and Harmony House Early Learning Center. She strived to create a supportive environment where all children could thrive,” Teabout said. “Sister Maurice will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.”

Sister Maurice will also miss 91��Ƭ. She is grateful for the opportunities she has had with the organization, particularly because of its founder, the late Monsignor William J. Linder, who recommended her for her first teaching position at St. Rose of Lima.

“I’m really grateful to 91��Ƭ, especially Monsignor Linder,” she said. “He actually believed in me, that I can do wonderful things.”

91��Ƭ colleagues surprised Sister Maurice on her last day at CHELC with a goodbye celebration where they spoke about what she meant to them and how they would miss her. The organization also presented her with a plaque commemorating her years of service.

While she was excited about the challenges to come and the opportunity to be close to her mother again, Sister Maurice was also sad to leave 91��Ƭ.

“For me, this was more than a job,” she said.

Longtime Security Personnel Reflect on Time at 91��Ƭ

Michelle Lang — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 16:49:20 +0000

It’s rare for an individual to stay with a particular company for decades, but there are five members of 91��Ƭ’s Security Department who have worked for the organization for 30 years or more. Jerome Barrow, William Folsom, Michelle Grier-Porch, Malinda Liptrot and Gerard Mansare have more than 165 years of service to 91��Ƭ combined.

Folsom has the longest tenure with 91��Ƭ. He will celebrate 40 years as a security officer in August. He has worked mainly in the organization’s residential buildings, with Hudson Senior in Jersey City currently serving as his main post. He started his NCC career at Extended Care where he met his wife who was working in the facility’s kitchen. The couple will celebrate their 31st wedding anniversary in August.

He enjoys his work and doesn’t have plans to leave.

“I could retire now but I’m just not ready to sit back yet,” Folsom said. “I like being around different people.”

Grier-Porch greets visitors at the 91��Ƭ Health Care Building, which houses , , the Family Resource Success Center, Family Service Bureau of Newark (FSB) and Supportive Assistance to Individuals and Families (SAIF). She has worked at 91��Ƭ for nearly 34 years as a security officer, serving in residential buildings and , which used to fall under NCC, in addition to her current post.

She plans to stay at 91��Ƭ until retirement.

“I love my job. I love working with the people that I work with,” Grier-Porch said. “91��Ƭ’s a good place to be.”

Mansare will reach 30 years at 91��Ƭ in August. He first learned about 91��Ƭ from NCC’s late founder Monsignor William J. Linder, who was serving as the pastor at St. Rose of Lima Church in Newark. Mansare is a very traditional Catholic and was searching for a church after coming to the United States from Guinea in West Africa. He found St. Rose of Lima and became close with Monsignor Linder who encouraged him to continue his education and told him about the security positions available at 91��Ƭ.

Monsignor Linder connected Mansare to lawyers to help him bring his fiance to the United States. He wed the couple and baptized each of their three children. Mansare’s connection to Monsignor Linder and his coworkers has kept him at the organization.

“I love 91��Ƭ,” he said. “It’s like a family.”

Security Sgt. Barrow has worked at 91��Ƭ for about 30 years. He left the organization for a time to deal with family issues but decided to return.

“I came back because I love 91��Ƭ,” he said. “I loved the job I was doing.”

Barrow first came to 91��Ƭ as a security officer in 1979, shortly after the organization had finished construction on many of its residential buildings. He has worked at a variety of sites and all shifts and was promoted to supervisor. He now supervises the 4 p.m. to midnight shift, ensuring the safety and security of residents, staff members and 91��Ƭ property.

Security Operations Manager Derek White is proud of the longtime personnel on his staff.

“They are all an asset to NCC and continue to help residents improve the quality of their lives,” he said. “I’d like to personally thank them for all they have done and continue to do. Their contributions are an important part of our continued success.”

The group of longtime employees has seen many changes over the years, including the expansion of buildings and services. Folsom remembers the creation of Harmony House, 91��Ƭ’s transitional housing facility for homeless families, as well as the opening of the Health Care Building. The group also saw residential buildings go up and the rehabilitation of properties.

Commitment to 91��Ƭ’s mission, a desire to help others and a sense of camaraderie has kept the longtime members of the Security Department at the organization.

“In the Security Department, we all stick together to try to make everything better than before,” Barrow said. “You learn from your mistakes, build from your mistakes and you move on.”

While some are nearing retirement, they’re happy to come to work each day.

“Anybody that comes in that needs help, 91��Ƭ is there,” Grier-Porch said. “I’m glad that we can be of help to them.”

91��Ƭ Corporate Offices Renamed in Honor of Founder

Michelle Lang — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 19:33:27 +0000

91��Ƭ has renamed its corporate office location Monsignor William J. Linder Plaza in honor of its founder. There is a new sign in front of the building, located at 233 West Market St., Newark, and a bronze plaque inside displaying the new name.

Monsignor Linder founded 91��Ƭ in 1968 along with members of the community following the 1967 Newark Rebellion. The mission was to help residents of inner cities improve the quality of their lives to reflect individual God-given dignity and personal achievement. That goal has remained unchanged for more than 53 years. As an organization, NCC has helped countless individuals and families at all stages of their lives with services ranging from housing and shelter to childcare and education to nursing home care and mental health services.

“This dedication of the plaza in the memory of Monsignor Linder is just a small token of our appreciation and affection for all that he did for the City of Newark and its residents. Clearly this in no way reaches the magnitude of his deep commitment and sacrifice for the City of Newark,” said 91��Ƭ Board Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba. “We want to make sure that people who pass by or come to this building for functions will remember Monsignor Linder and what he meant to the City of Newark.”

91��Ƭ Chief Financial Officer/Interim Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Mbakaya believes the naming is appropriate.

“Monsignor Linder worked tirelessly to ensure that 91��Ƭ was successful and lived up to its mission. Having his name at our corporate offices is a fitting tribute to recognize all he did for the organization and the people it serves,” she said.

91��Ƭ Director of Mission Frances Teabout believes the name will serve as inspiration.

“Monsignor William J. Linder Plaza will not only stand as a memorial to Monsignor Linder and many others who worked tirelessly to fulfill our mission, but it will also serve to constantly remind us and future generations of the importance of helping others improve their lives,” she said.

Monsignor Linder served as 91��Ƭ’s CEO until 2013 when he transitioned to the chairman of the Board of Directors. He served as the board chairman until his passing on June 8, 2018.

Four Decades of Service: Madge Wilson Continues to Fulfill 91��Ƭ’s Mission

Michelle Lang — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:44:05 +0000

It’s extremely rare to find an individual who has dedicated more than four decades of their career to one organization. But anyone familiar with 91��Ƭ knows Madge Wilson who has been a constant at the organization for more than 41 years.

Wilson met the late Monsignor William J. Linder, founder of 91��Ƭ, at Queen of Angels parish in 1962 where he was first assigned after graduating from the seminary and becoming an ordained priest. After he and other community members started 91��Ƭ in 1968, Wilson became involved. She was one of the founding members of Babyland Nursery, which provided childcare services, in 1969. After 91��Ƭ constructed housing, Wilson officially joined NCC as an employee in 1980, becoming a member of the Property Management Department as a manager for family and senior housing. She previously worked for the Newark Housing Authority from 1964 to 1980 so she had experience in that area.

Over the last four decades, Wilson has helped people in more ways than just through her official job responsibilities. While working in the Property Management Department, she began the annual Christmas drive, which she still does today. She arranges for the collection of holiday gifts for children from a variety of sources, including Catholic schools, churches and individual donors, and distributes them to families in need connected to 91��Ƭ and Saint Rose of Lima Church, where she has been a member since 1974, when Monsignor Linder began serving as pastor there. She also distributes donated turkeys to families in need for Thanksgiving to ensure they have a festive holiday meal.

Wilson works with the National Council of Jewish Women Essex County (NCJW/Essex) to ensure 91��Ƭ and Saint Rose of Lima families are able to participate in the organization’s annual Back 2 School Store, which takes place each summer. It provides school supplies, shoes, clothing, winter coats and toiletries to county residents in need who are identified by area organizations.

In addition to the annual events, Wilson also helps 91��Ƭ residents furnish their apartments if necessary. She will arrange for pick up and drop off of donated furniture to make the units truly feel like home.

Since becoming an NCC employee, she has worked to help secure housing for military veterans, many who have been on the brink of homelessness. She has worked with members of the Veterans Administration Hospital in East Orange and Lyons to ensure veterans have a safe place to go upon discharge.

Madge Wilson, center, was presented with a service award during 91��Ƭ’s 50th Anniversary Gala in 2018 by current Board Member Diane Johnson and 91��Ƭ CEO Richard Rohrman.

Wilson said she came to 91��Ƭ to work for the people who needed it most and that goal hasn’t changed.

“There were so many poor people and that’s who I try to help, poor people that need help,” she said. “I said when I came to work for 91��Ƭ that I would never leave and that I just wanted to be able to help people. To make a difference in their lives. And I’ve done that.”

Now Wilson serves as 91��Ƭ’s Outreach Coordinator and is a long-time member of the organization’s Board of Directors. At 88 years old, she has no plans to retire.

“I’m staying busy and that’s what keeps me going,” she said. “My satisfaction is helping people. That’s my mission.”

Her hard work and dedication are well-known to 91��Ƭ residents, staff members and fellow board members.

“Madge Wilson is one of those rare individuals. She’s an embodiment of what NCC stands for, which is service and commitment to the community from the young to the elderly,” said 91��Ƭ Board Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba. “But more importantly, she does it with such grace and joy that it’s really a testament to her deep and abiding faith in people.”

Wilson has had her own set of personal trials, including health challenges, but she has never let anything stop her from serving others.

“After Monsignor Linder, there is no one who encapsulates the NCC mission more than Madge. She has worked tirelessly for the people of Newark every day for over 41 years. Madge works one-on-one with people and it is incredible to think of the sheer number of people Madge has impacted over this long life of service to others. From children to seniors she has been there for everyone,” said 91��Ƭ CEO Richard Rohrman. “Madge was also dedicated to helping Monsignor Linder through his health issues and went to the Extended Care Facility every night after work until late to be with him so that he always had company. She is the definition of kindness. You could not ask for a better person to be on your side than Madge. I have been lucky to have known and been inspired by my friend for 40 of these years.”

Wilson has been recognized on numerous occasions for her work by other organizations as well. She was honored as an Essex County Legend by the Essex County Division of Senior Services in 2010, received a letter of recognition from President Barack Obama in 2011, was named Volunteer of the Year for her efforts on behalf of long-term care residents by the Health Care Association of New Jersey in 2016 and received the Saint Vincent Academy Woman of Distinction Award in 2017.

While she is grateful for the accolades, Wilson said she doesn’t expect or need recognition. She simply wants to do the work that needs to be done to fulfill 91��Ƭ’s mission: to help residents of inner cities improve the quality of their lives to reflect individual God-given dignity and personal achievement.

“The love that I have for 91��Ƭ is unspeakable,” she said. “This is my home.”

91��Ƭ Celebrates Career of Retiring CEO Richard Rohrman

Michelle Lang — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 15:41:00 +0000

91��Ƭ hosted a celebration for retiring CEO Richard Rohrman on May 20 to commemorate his 26-year career with the organization and thank him for his leadership. Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a small group, including members of his family, close friends, colleagues and NCC supporters, gathered at St. Joseph Plaza to celebrate him. The event was also live streamed for those who were unable to attend in person.

91��Ƭ Board Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba congratulated Rohrman on his extensive career and called him the base of the organization.

“Monsignor [William J. Linder] was the founder, the visionary, but you also need people who are nuts and bolts type people to make the organization work. And Rich was that person,” Yamba said. “And when he became the CEO, he carried 91��Ƭ to other heights.”

91��Ƭ Board Member Diane Johnson, who served as the emcee of the event, reiterated that sentiment.

“The founder may have taken it from ashes to hope. But I know that Richard Rohrman has taken it from hope to reality,” she said. “Richard is someone who has been dedicated and committed and passionate about not only the legacy, but has taken us forward. Under his leadership, we have done very, very well.”

Johnson talked about the rehabilitation of several Newark properties that took place under Rohrman’s leadership that ensures the affordable housing units will be available for many years to come. She also said there are new projects in the works that were started with Rohrman at the helm.

Newark Central Ward Councilwoman LaMonica McIver represented the City Council at the event, bringing a resolution from the council and speaking on their behalf.

“I want to tell you congratulations and thank you for everything that you have done, continuing the legacy of 91��Ƭ and all of the hard work, working for our residents, the programming, everything,” McIver said. “91��Ƭ is literally an enterprise. We would not be able to be the city that we are without 91��Ƭ and so I’m thankful for you from day one.”

Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree spoke on behalf of Newark’s mayor at the event.

“As I stand here today on behalf of the mayor of this great city, Ras J. Baraka, and over 300,000 residents, I say thank you. Thank you for your perseverance when you could’ve turned your back and said I’m done,” she said.

91��Ƭ Chief Operating Officer Fred Hunter and Chief Financial Officer Elizabeth Mbakaya presented Rohrman with an award depicting NCC’s footprint as a collage.

“Most of us see Rich as more than just our CEO. He’s a mentor, he’s inspiring, he’s a leader, he’s a partner and a trusted friend,” Hunter said. “As a CEO out in front, you can easily put yourself out there constantly. But it was never about Rich. It was always how to make 91��Ƭ better. Well, Rich, we all want to say job well done.”

In addition to being an advocate for affordable housing, Rohrman has also been passionate about promoting homeownership. To help individuals who face challenges with down payments and closing costs, Yamba announced the creation of the Richard Rohrman 91��Ƭ Fund for First Time Home Buyers. Board members presented Rohrman with a check in the amount of $35,000 raised as a start for the fund. Money received in support of this initiative will be awarded as grants to qualifying first time home buyers from the service areas of Newark, Orange and Jersey City to help offset down payments and closing costs.

Johnson also announced the renaming of the East Africa Room in St. Joseph Plaza. It is now known as the Richard Rohrman Conference Room and will showcase photos of Rohrman and his work over the years.

91��Ƭ Board Member and Outreach Coordinator Madge Wilson read a congressional record that Congressman Donald Payne Jr. submitted honoring Rohrman’s retirement.

In addition to the in-person remarks, attendees had the opportunity to view a tribute video produced ahead of time which included 91��Ƭ employees from various departments, board members, family members and friends.

Rohrman was very appreciative of the event and remarks. He said his time at 91��Ƭ has greatly impacted his life.

“This has just been an incredible, enriching experience for me to be a part of 91��Ƭ for these 26 years,” Rohrman said. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet and become friends with people of such different backgrounds and nationalities and with such different life experiences. It’s just given me a great respect of people for their kindness, their openness and their perseverance.”

Rohrman recalled first coming to 91��Ƭ when he was in his late 20s and being part of a building boom for the organization. He said having grown up in a suburban community and attending Catholic schools for his education from grade school through college provided him with a much different experience than the individuals who were being served by 91��Ƭ.

“Monsignor opened my eyes to a much different reality than I had lived. He just showed me what he and 91��Ƭ were doing to change the city of Newark and they were just working at such a feverish pitch. And I’m just so grateful that I was able to work so closely with Monsignor and learn from his vision and his deep passion for the people of Newark,” Rohrman said. “And then again much later, after experiencing this initial building boom, I was able to work again with so many talented, hardworking people to renovate the same housing and restructure NCC and set it up for its future.”

. All photos are by Lloyd G. Holmes. You can watch the event live stream here. The tribute video can be viewed here.

Richard Rohrman to Retire from 91��Ƭ

Michelle Lang — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 21:27:24 +0000

NEWARK, NJ – 91��Ƭ, one of the nation’s largest community development organizations, has announced that Richard Rohrman, CEO, has decided to retire effective May 31, 2021.

“NCC is in a strong position to explode into its next 50 years. There will be new buildings and facilities, much greater emphasis on health and its relationship to housing, training for well-paying in-demand jobs, health care, early childhood development and future innovations,” said Richard Rohrman, 91��Ƭ CEO. “When you look at our current organizational structure and financial standing, what you are seeing are the long-run cumulative results of innovative strategies and strategic partnerships that allow us to create tremendous impact. Right now, I see 91��Ƭ as ready for whatever arises, making it an optimal time for this transition.”

Rohrman’s history with 91��Ƭ started long before he was appointed the CEO. In the 1980s, he served as the Assistant Director of Maintenance and Business Development Manager. Since then, he has held the positions of Director of Real Estate Operations and Director of Real Estate Development. In 2013, Richard was appointed as the CEO when Monsignor William J. Linder, the Founder of NCC, retired from that position.

“Throughout Richard Rohrman’s career at 91��Ƭ, here in the City of Newark, he has demonstrated commitment, compassion and creativity. Richard’s efforts and determination was of tremendous benefit to not just the 91��Ƭ family but the Newark family as well. 91��Ƭ’s loss is Newark’s loss,” stated Mildred Crump, Newark City Council President.

A hybrid celebration will be held in Rohrman’s honor on May 20, 2021, which will be live streamed via Facebook and YouTube for employees, partners and friends. In the coming weeks, additional information about the search and celebration will be released via the 91��Ƭ website, social media channels and Clarion, 91��Ƭ’s monthly newsletter.

“Richard has been a wonderful partner with the Board and an outstanding leader for 91��Ƭ for over 25 years. The 91��Ƭ network, and those we serve, have greatly benefited from his vision, business acumen, dedication and leadership,” stated Dr. A. Zachary Yamba, 91��Ƭ Board of Directors Chairman. “In his role of CEO, Rohrman has used his expertise to strengthen the operational structure and the financial standing of the organization, positioning NCC to grow and be acclaimed as one of the largest community development organizations in the country. We will miss him greatly.”

In preparation for new leadership, the Board of Directors has constituted a search committee of its members in partnership with The Support Center, a nonprofit leadership and consulting organization specializing in executive search and transition. For more information about the CEO position and search, visit .

91��Ƭ CEO Richard Rohrman to Retire May 31

Michelle Lang — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 14:28:36 +0000

Chief Executive Officer Richard Rohrman has announced his retirement from 91��Ƭ at the end of May. He has served as NCC’s CEO since April of 2013.

Rohrman’s history with 91��Ƭ started long before he was appointed as CEO. In the 1980s, he served as the organization’s Assistant Director of Maintenance and Business Development Manager. Since then, he has held the positions of Director of Real Estate Operations and Director of Real Estate Development. During his tenure, he oversaw NCC’s business development, real estate development, operations and economic development. He took over the role of CEO when NCC Founder Monsignor William J. Linder retired from that position.

Rohrman said Monsignor Linder encouraged him to join 91��Ƭ in 1981.

“I had no idea that I was beginning one of the most meaningful and enriching experiences of my life,” Rohrman said. “Having been able to work at the side of an icon like Monsignor Linder was a once in a lifetime honor and opportunity. He opened my eyes to the injustice in the city and the injustice that its people were suffering. As a child of the suburban Catholic school system, it is an understatement to say I was introduced to a different world than the one I grew up in.”

Rohrman embraced NCC’s mission and grew within the organization, eventually taking the reins. As CEO, he has led 91��Ƭ through its 50th anniversary year and helped set the organization on a steady path for the next 50 years. He led the re-syndication of over 1,100 units of NCC housing, which resulted in renovations and the preservation of much-needed affordable housing servicing the most vulnerable population. He also reorganized NCC’s executive team, adding a Chief Operating Officer.

Rohrman has used his expertise to strengthen the operational structure and the financial standing of the organization, positioning NCC to grow. In keeping with the organization’s values, Rohrman oversaw an increased minimum wage for its workforce and initiated a 401(k) benefits program for employees with an employer match.

Rohrman has been at the helm of 91��Ƭ through times of transition, including the passing of the organization’s founder and Board Chairman, Monsignor Linder, in 2018. He has also led 91��Ƭ through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout his tenure, Rohrman said the human element has stood out the most.

“The work has been both rewarding and meaningful to me but the real story is the people. I have been so enriched by the people I have met, gotten to know and been friends with over the years. To learn about so many cultures and backgrounds and having the opportunity to appreciate them has been a life-changer for me,” Rohrman said. “Having worked with and known a seemingly endless array of dedicated people with such different backgrounds has been the real story of my time at NCC. I am proud of my work and also thankful that I have been able to make some difference in the lives of our workforce, clients and residents.”

Being part of 91��Ƭ for so many years, Rohrman got to know the inner workings of the organization, which put him in a position to successfully lead. Members of the Board of Directors are pleased with how Rohrman has positioned 91��Ƭ to move forward.

“His retirement is going to be a real loss to 91��Ƭ because he has served us well,” said Board Chairman Dr. A. Zachary Yamba. “He has a steady hand, he is very approachable and he is very knowledgeable about the organization.”

“He was remarkable in boosting both the stability and the quality of 91��Ƭ’s role as a service provider for the community,” said long-time Board Member Newton Richards. “During the course of his tenure, there was a constant upward trend.”

“Over the years, Rich has worked hard to bring NCC to the level where it is today, including increasing the membership of the NCC Board of Directors,” said NCC Board Member and Outreach Coordinator Madge Wilson. “I would like to take this opportunity to say a job well done and to enjoy your retirement.”

In addition to working closely with members of NCC’s Board of Directors and staff, Rohrman also forged relationships with those working in other organizations, including Victoria Foundation Co-Executive Officer Craig Drinkard. Victoria Foundation has served as a long-time funder of 91��Ƭ and Drinkard has worked there since 2006. Drinkard, who lived in NCC housing when growing up, described Rohrman as humble and willing to ask for help when needed.

“He was always methodical in his thinking around the moves the organization needed to make,” Drinkard said, citing as an example the re-syndication of NCC housing which took many steps and much coordination. “Not only are the residents benefiting from that on a day-to-day basis, but the organization itself is in a better position.”

Rohrman knows that after his retirement, 91��Ƭ will continue to provide quality services that fulfill the organization’s mission to help residents of inner cities improve the quality of their lives to reflect individual God-given dignity and personal achievement.

“NCC is in a strong position to explode into its next 50 years,” Rohrman said. “There will be new buildings and facilities, much greater emphasis on health and its relationship to housing, training for well-paying in-demand jobs, health care, early childhood development and who knows what opportunities will open up. Whatever arises, NCC will be ready.”

While it will be difficult to replace Rohrman, Yamba is optimistic about the future.

“We hope that the person who succeeds him will be able to rise up to the challenge, especially in this period of COVID, economic downturn and all the issues facing the nation and community-based organizations,” Yamba said.

Rorhman plans to enjoy his retirement in a variety of ways.

“Traveling with my wife Joanne, spending time with family in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Colorado; reading; volunteering; hiking; taking some courses in interesting topics; and slowing down a little are all in store for the future,” he said.

The NCC Board of Directors has embarked on a search for the organization’s next CEO. The Board has engaged The Support Center, a nonprofit leadership and consulting organization specializing in executive search and transition management, to help navigate the search and manage the transition. The Support Center has deep roots in Newark and has been an important partner to NCC over the years.

91��Ƭ will release a special edition Clarion in the near future to highlight more of Richard Rohrman’s time with the organization and the perspective of those who have worked with him.

For information about the CEO opportunity, .

Newark’s 91��Ƭ Serves as Nationwide Model for Providing Cohesive Human Services During COVID-19 and Civil Unrest Pandemics

Michelle Lang — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 20:52:08 +0000

91��Ƭ (NCC), affectionately known as “91��Ƭ,” continues to help Newark residents improve lives amidst increased racial tensions and this year’s COVID-19 pandemic.

Financially stable; self-sufficient; and strategically positioned to enter its next phase of growth. These are uncommon phrases to hear as the U.S. economy continues to endure COVID-19. However, 91��Ƭ in Newark – one of the largest and most comprehensive community development corporations in the country – fits the bill, with a best in class model for financial sustainability and a workforce of almost 500 employees.

“We’ve been able to leverage over $80 million to strengthen and revitalize our affordable housing units for seniors, families and the disabled for the next 20 years, and in doing so, we were able to enhance our financial position and generate revenue to continue our mission,” said Richard Rohrman, CEO of 91��Ƭ.

91��Ƭ has 1,812 housing units spread over 12 properties in Newark, Jersey City and Orange. The organization offers 360-degree human services and 60 percent of its employees are local residents.

“Being place-based in Newark allows us to blanket the area we live and work in with a wide variety of comprehensive services that rise to meet people where they are,” Rohrman said. “In addition, our Board of Directors is curated from thought leaders in education, finance, public safety, government, affordable housing and law. This combination of our community connections and boots on the ground expertise allows us to help residents increase their quality of life and drive social impact for generations to come.”

NCC was founded in response to the 1967 violent civil unrest in Newark, N.J., by the late Monsignor William J. Linder (who marched in the famed Selma to Montgomery March with Martin Luther King Jr. and U.S. Rep. John Lewis) and a core group of Black community leaders and white allies, including Tim Still, Willie Wright, Bob Curvin, Joe Chaneyfield and Ken Gibson. 91��Ƭ has since provided affordable housing, critical social services and continuous economic opportunities throughout each stage of community members’ lives.

Now, faced again with similar challenges in 2020, the organization can serve once more as a national model for those seeking best practices in community development as we move through the double pandemics of COVID-19 and social justice.

“Newark is on the rise and a model for peaceful protests. However, the incidents of police brutality, senseless hate crimes and the impact of COVID-19 throughout the Black community are reminders of systemic racism in our society,” said Rohrman and A. Zachary Yamba, chairman of 91��Ƭ’s Board of Directors. “To that end, 91��Ƭ has pledged to double down on our existing initiatives to close the asset gap and reduce inequality in health and social services, financial literacy, education, affordable housing and workforce development.”

Its “Walk the Walk” pledge includes working closer with social justice advocacy groups such as New Jersey Institute for Social Justice and Newark Communities for Accountable Policing as well as the development of a think tank that will host topical discussions with thought leaders to address innovations for success, best practices and ways to work together for an equitable future for all.

“When community development corporations work to empower their residents to participate in such neighborhood growth from the ground up, a sort of self-sustaining synergy arises,” said Fred Hunter, chief operating officer of 91��Ƭ. “91��Ƭ is committed to going deeper and connecting with partners and funders to increase our social impact in the Greater Newark Area.”

91��Ƭ plans to invest more heavily in three areas in the near future: workforce development, home ownership and improved community health, explains Rohrman.

“We’d like to increase our enrollment at 91��Ƭ Career & Technical Institute to enhance employability and provide skills for future generations to build a career,” Rohrman said. “And, for the residents of Newark to continue to live here and keep this community intact, we’ll need to increase home ownership opportunities, so that absentee landlords who sell for the right price don’t leave it up to the market to determine whether a current resident can afford to stay.”

Since its founding, 91��Ƭ has listened to the needs of the people to fulfill its mission of helping inner city residents improve the quality of their lives. Therefore, it offers a wide range of services for individuals of all ages, including housing, health care, education and financial services.

“We’ve made incredible progress over the last 52 years, and our programs, services and expertise are needed now more than ever,” Rohrman said.