Highlighting the vital link between higher education and regional economic health, state legislators from New Jersey’s 40th District visited William Paterson University (WP) last week for an in-depth look at the institution’s role as a primary driver of the state’s workforce.
Senator Kristin Corrado, Assemblyman Al Barlas, and Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips toured campus facilities to see firsthand how state-supported programs are translating into career success for students.
The visit placed a heavy focus on WP’s powerhouse programs, particularly in nursing and business. The university currently boasts the largest nursing enrollment on any single college campus in New Jersey, serving as a critical pipeline to address the state’s ongoing healthcare professional shortage.
The legislators toured the Nel Bolger RN Nursing Simulation Lab, a state-of-the-art facility where students engage in experiential learning using computerized mannequins that mimic real-world clinical scenarios.
“Seeing students train in a real-world clinical environment underscores the critical role this institution plays in preparing healthcare professionals who serve our communities,” DePhillips said.
Beyond technical training, the University was lauded for its success in social mobility. Ranked among the nation’s top four-year institutions for advancing the socioeconomic standing of its graduates, WP serves a diverse student body where nearly half are first-generation college students.
“It was inspiring to see how our local university is shaping the next generation of leaders and directly supporting families and businesses in our district,” Senator Corrado, a member of the Senate Education and Economic Growth Committees said.
University President Richard Helldobler introduced the legislators to the PowerPaths Career Experience Program, which becomes a graduation requirement starting with the Fall 2025 cohort. The program embeds real-world learning—such as internships, clinical placements, or job simulations—into every major on campus.
Assemblyman Barlas, a member of the Assembly Labor and Budget Committees, emphasized the broader impact: “William Paterson’s focus on workforce readiness, innovation, and community engagement demonstrates how higher education can strengthen our local economy.”
With nearly 8,800 alumni living directly within District 40, the university’s influence is woven into the local fabric, supporting everything from municipal government to small businesses and major hospital systems.
