United Way of Greater Mercer County (UWGMC) welcomes Verlina Reynolds Jackson, Assemblywoman 15th New Jersey Legislative District, to its Board of Directors. She is passionate about serving the community through public service.
Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson is currently serving her 3rd term in the NJ Assembly seat in the 15th Legislative District and has ascended to Senior Leadership where she serves as Constituent Outreach Chair and Vice-Chairwoman of the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee. The Assemblywoman is also the Vice-Chair of the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus.
Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson’s career as a Social Worker coupled with a commitment to public service led her to the elected position of East Ward Councilwoman, where she became the first African American female to serve in that position and Council Vice-President where she legislated laws for the City of Trenton. She proudly served 7 ½ years on City Council before the start of her first term in the NJ Assembly. She attended the Trenton Public School District and obtained advanced degrees from Trenton State College (The College of New Jersey) and Central Michigan University.
She has achieved great satisfaction working with various populations, including her neighbors, the homeless, the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Her work has focused on social justice, enforcing business and landlord responsibility, environmental protection, and demanding accountability for students. She is involved with various organizations, including, the board of the YWCA of Princeton, and is affiliated with the League of Women Voters.
“I am excited to join The United Way of Greater Mercer County. Our mission is to improve access and to close the health, education, and financial equity gaps that are essential for us to thrive. With my passion and UWGMC leadership, we can achieve sustainable and resilient community partnerships. I look forward to working at UWGMC to improve outcomes and the quality of life for all. Thank you for entrusting me with this opportunity,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson.
“Verlina embodies UWGMC’s mission and is a champion for equity and access in our community. Her work in inclusion & engagement, economic development as well as public education aligns strategically with UWGMC's mission. No doubt, Verlina's in-depth understanding of the issues faced by our greater Trenton communities will result in key contributions to this board's deliverables,” said Rita Ribeiro, UWGMC Board Chair.
“It’s a privilege to have Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson serve on the UWGMC Board of Directors. Her tireless efforts to fight for hard-working families, small businesses, equitable funding of schools, and increased access to health care and other social services make her a good fit for the board. Together we can ensure that all people are treated with dignity and champion innovative ways to invest in families,” said Sandra Toussaint, UWGMC President & CEO.
