Committees

The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFBNJ) consists of various committees, each playing a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission to empower blind and low vision individuals across the state. Below is a list of the committees, including their leadership and primary responsibilities.

Accessibility Committee

Chair: Clark King
Phone: 201-238-8593

The Accessibility Committee is responsible for ensuring that all documents distributed by the NFBNJ, its chapters, committees, and groups are nonvisually accessible. This committee works to guarantee that all materials are compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies, allowing blind individuals to access important documents and communications.

Communications Committee

Chair: Annemarie Cooke
Phone: 609-859-4084

The Communications Committee drafts messages, advisories, and written communications in a clear and professional manner using standard punctuation, grammar, and spelling. These communications aim to promote the work of the NFBNJ throughout New Jersey, sharing the organization’s achievements, events, and advocacy efforts with the public.

Fundraising Committee

Co-Chairs:

  • Mac Biggers
    Phone: 801-916-9753
  • Tony Santiago
    Phone: 732-947-2429

The Fundraising Committee plays a crucial role in securing the financial resources necessary to support the state affiliate’s projects and programs. This committee helps plan and execute fundraising events, campaigns, and partnerships to provide the funds needed for the NFBNJ to continue its work in advocacy, outreach, and services for the blind community.

Legislative Committee

Chair: Ryan Stevens
Phone: 856-520-0016

The Legislative Committee is tasked with monitoring and responding to legislation that impacts the blind and low vision community in New Jersey. Members of this committee provide timely updates on pending legislation, alerting the NFBNJ’s membership about actions that need to be taken to advocate for or against specific laws that could affect the rights and opportunities of blind individuals.

Membership Committee

Chair: Melissa Lomax

Phone: 410-608-6118

The Membership Committee is focused on growing the NFBNJ’s local chapters and ensuring the smooth integration of new members. This committee works to provide resources and procedures that help new members engage with the Federation’s mission and become involved in local advocacy, events, and initiatives. It serves as a support system for building strong, active chapters across the state.

Resolutions Committee

Chair: Ryan Stevens
Phone: 856-520-0016

The Resolutions Committee reviews various issues impacting the blind community and discusses what actions are necessary for presenting resolutions at the NFBNJ State Convention. These resolutions serve as official policy statements of the affiliate, guiding the organization’s advocacy efforts and positions on critical issues affecting blind individuals.

Scholarship Committee

Chair: Lia Stone
Phone: 917-570-3166

The Scholarship Committee determines the recipients of academic scholarships awarded at the NFBNJ State Convention. This committee evaluates applications and selects deserving students based on their academic achievements, personal goals, and commitment to the blind community. These scholarships provide financial assistance to help students with vision loss pursue higher education.

Seniors Committee

Chair: Jane Degenshein
Phone: 973-736-5785
Listserv: http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbnj-seniors_nfbnet.org

The Seniors Committee aims to support blind and low vision seniors by offering resources, social connections, and tools to help them lead independent lives. This committee helps to create a community for senior members, fostering a belief in raising expectations and creating new possibilities for older individuals. The committee also provides opportunities for seniors to get involved in the NFBNJ and engage in advocacy, education, and social activities. To learn more, please visit the Seniors Committee page.

Sounding Board Committee

Chair: Annemarie Cooke
Phone: 609-859-4084

The Sounding Board Committee is responsible for producing and curating content for the NFBNJ’s official publication, The Sounding Board. This publication shares stories from members, human interest pieces, and important updates from the blind community. The committee gathers reflections, articles, and other content to keep members informed about the organization’s activities and the broader issues facing the blind community in New Jersey.

Students Committee

Chair: Natasha Ishaq
Phone: 609-917-8236
Listserv: http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/njabs-talk_nfbnet.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newjabstudents

The Students Committee focuses on supporting blind and low vision students, helping them navigate their educational experiences and empowering them to reach their academic goals. This committee provides a platform for students to connect, share experiences, and participate in events and activities that promote higher expectations and increased opportunities for success. Through mentorship, advocacy, and social events, the Students Committee ensures that members are prepared for leadership in both academic and professional environments. To learn more, please visit the Students Committee page.

Technology Committee

Chair: Jane Degenshein
Phone: 973-736-5785
Listserv: http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/NJTechDiv_nfbnet.org

The Technology Committee connects blind and low vision individuals who are passionate about technology and innovation. This committee works to raise awareness about accessible technology, facilitates discussions and training on technology-related topics, and advocates for accessible tech solutions. The committee helps members stay up-to-date on the latest technology developments and ensures that these tools are accessible to those who need them. To learn more, please visit the Technology Committee page.

Transportation Committee

Chair: Phil Harrison
Phone: 609-383-5117

The Transportation Committee helps ensure that blind and low vision individuals in New Jersey have access to reliable and accessible transportation options. This committee provides updates on transportation services like NJ Transit and Access Link and advocates for improvements in these systems. By informing members about available resources and advocating for better services, the Transportation Committee works to improve mobility and independence for blind individuals in the state.