The Cesar Estrada Chavez Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated leadership in support of workers’ rights and humanitarian issues.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized with the Cesar Estrada Chavez Award by the American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity for my leadership,” said Kesselman. “Stockton is the true champion for its commitments to humanitarian issues and working to overcome economic inequality, with projects on the regional, national and international levels.”
Kesselman, the fifth president of Stockton University, has more than 35 years of experience in higher education and is a tenured professor in Stockton’s School of Education.
He has advised the New Jersey College and University Presidents’ Council regarding accountability and assessment, participated on the New Jersey College and Career Readiness Task Force, and represented the senior public colleges and universities in the NJ Committee of Experts on Campus Sexual Assault Issues.
In addition, he founded and chaired the SRI & ETTC Consortium, which includes more than 90 school districts throughout New Jersey.
Kesselman also has served on numerous national grant reviews, authored and promoted policies for legislation, maintains a strong record of successful grant preparation, and continues to serve as a consultant and speaker.
He is actively involved in his community, including elected positions on the Hamilton Township Committee and the school board, and appointed positions to numerous public and civic organizations.