2026-2027
NJNS Board of Directors
NJNS's Board of Directors is made up of 12 nursing students who are elected at the organization's annual convention. Two non-voting consultants are appointed by the New Jersey State Nurses Association (NJSNA) and the New Jersey League for Nursing (NJLN). Two non-voting presidential advisors are also appointed to the board, along with an organizational manager.
President
Reina Garcia Perfecto, RN, William Paterson University
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Hello! My name is Reina Garcia Perfecto. I am honored to serve as the President of the New Jersey Nursing Students, Inc. I am a proud graduate of Mercer County Community College, where I completed my nursing education in December 2025. I also hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Studies, which has helped me develop a deep understanding of the social determinants of health and their impact on our communities. I am currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at William Paterson University, where I continue to advance my clinical knowledge and professional development.
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I previously served as the First Vice President of NJNS during the 2025-2026 term, where I helped coordinate events for nursing students across the state and advocate for them as they prepared to enter the profession.
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I currently work as a Staff Nurse at a Federally Qualified Health Center, where I provide direct primary care to community members. I chose to work in a community health center because I believed my experience working in communities would complement my clinical expertise, enabling me to deliver meaningful health education and promote preventive care. In this role, I continue to serve vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, public housing residents, and migrant and seasonal farmworkers, further strengthening my commitment to equitable, community-centered care.
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As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the challenges of forging my own path. I strive to be a leader and role model for upcoming nursing students, demonstrating that with compassion, resilience, and determination, anything is possible. I chose nursing because I have always felt called to support people through both their most difficult and most meaningful moments
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In my free time, I enjoy being in nature, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new coffee shops. I believe self-care is just as essential as professional growth, and that to be effective leaders, we must nurture both our well-being and our purpose.
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I am excited to serve on the executive board and look forward to contributing to the journeys of future nursing students in a positive and meaningful way.
First Vice-President
Gold Nwankwo, Mercer County Community College
Hello everyone!
My name is Gold Nwankwo, and I am honored to serve as First Vice President for the 2026–2027 academic year for the New Jersey Nursing Students (NJNS). I am currently a nursing student at Mercer County Community College and will be entering my final semester of nursing school this fall. I also serve as Treasurer for my school’s Student Nurses’ Association (SNA), where I work alongside an amazing team to help support and engage nursing students within our program.
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Throughout my nursing journey, I have developed a strong passion for leadership, advocacy, volunteerism, and creating supportive spaces for nursing students to grow. Being involved in student nursing organizations has allowed me to connect with students across New Jersey, strengthen my leadership skills, and advocate for nursing students and the future of our profession. One of the most rewarding parts of this experience has been encouraging students to get involved, step into leadership, and realize the impact they can have within nursing.
Outside of school, I have gained healthcare experience working as a Direct Support Professional and through my hospital externship at Capital Health. These experiences have continued to strengthen my commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care and remind me daily of the importance of empathy, resilience, and advocacy in healthcare.
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In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, traveling, volunteering, spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, and exploring new experiences. I believe self-care and balance are so important, especially while navigating nursing school and leadership roles.
As someone who understands both the challenges and rewards that come with nursing school, I hope to continue uplifting and supporting fellow nursing students throughout their journeys. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve on the NJNS executive board, and I look forward to contributing to a positive and meaningful year for nursing students across New Jersey.
Second Vice-President
Octavius Caeser Silva, JR, Mercer County Community College
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Greetings everyone!
My name is Octavius Caesar Silva JR, and I am honored to serve as your 2nd Vice President on the NJNS Board of Directors for this 2026-2027 term. I am currently pursuing an Associate in Science in Nursing at Mercer County Community College (MCCC), where I am expected to graduate in December 2026. Alongside my nursing degree, I am also completing an Associate of Applied Science in Health Science.
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At Mercer, I proudly serve as Class Representative where I act as the liaison between faculty and my fellow classmates where I am in charge of advocating on behalf of the student body. I also had the honor of being the first student that MCCC has ever sent to the National Student Nurse Association (NSNA) Convention. In April of 2026, I represented MCCC as a delegate in the NSNA House of Delegates during the 74th Annual NSNA Convention in Houston, Texas. Additionally, MCCC sponsored me to attend the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses 2026 National Training Institute & Critical Care Exposition in San Diego.
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Currently, I work as a Mental Health Associate and a Clinical Care Technician in the Emergency Department of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. In this role, I provide direct patient care in both emergency and behavioral health settings, collaborating closely with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to support patients experiencing acute medical and psychiatric conditions.
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Before entering healthcare, I served as an Infantryman in the United States Army. My military service taught me the importance of discipline, resilience, teamwork, and leadership which are values that continue to guide me in both my personal and professional life. Following my time in the military, I worked as a Police Officer with the Rutgers University Police Department where I further developed my skills in crisis management, communication, and public service. These experiences gave me a strong foundation in leadership and reinforced my passion for helping people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
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Outside of work and academics, I enjoy going to the gym, training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and I have a Belgian Malinois named Bean. I also have a passion for aviation, and one day I hope to return to aviation school, get my pilots license, and own my own airplane.
I am truly excited to serve on the NJNS Board of Directors and look forward to making a meaningful and lasting impact while advocating for my fellow nursing students across New Jersey.
Secretary
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Dhruvil Jasani, Mercer County Community College
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Hello everyone! My name is Dhruvil Jasani, and I am honored to serve as the Secretary for the New Jersey Nursing Students (NJNS) Board of Directors. I am currently entering my fourth and final semester of nursing school at Mercer County Community College.
I am running for the position of Secretary for NJNS because I believe effective communication is the foundation of strong leadership. Through my experiences at both the local and state levels, I have seen how collaboration and organization can bring nursing students together to accomplish meaningful goals. I want to continue serving our members by ensuring that every chapter stays informed, connected, and represented while helping the NJNS Board work efficiently in support of nursing students across New Jersey.
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Throughout my time at Mercer, I have been an active leader within our local Student Nurses' Association (SNA). I am currently serving as the Vice President and am the upcoming President for our chapter. In my role as Vice President, I work to keep our members engaged and informed by organizing events and sharing vital updates. One of the proudest moments for our chapter was when my fellow officers and I connected with the New Jersey Senate office to advocate for nurses and nursing students, discussing the "Big, Beautiful Bill" and its impact on nursing education. This experience showed me the true power of student nurses when we work together as a leadership team to drive meaningful change.
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Beyond advocacy, I am deeply committed to community service. My fellow officers and I lead our SNA members in volunteering at the Trenton Soup Kitchen, ensuring that we remain active and present in supporting our local community as a group. As State Secretary, I want to bring this same spirit of collaboration to the board. My focus will be on clear communication and partnership across all local chapters to ensure every student nurse's voice is heard and our statewide initiatives run smoothly through teamwork.
Outside of nursing school, I believe in staying balanced and constantly learning. I enjoy hiking, exploring new places, and picking up new skills. I also have a passion for music and enjoy learning and playing guitar.
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I am excited to serve as your new executive board member and cannot wait to help strengthen our nursing community while advocating for our future alongside my fellow board members!
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Treasurer
Esperanza Lynch, Mercer County Community College
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Hello everyone! My name is Esperanza Lynch, and I am honored to serve as Treasurer for the New Jersey Nursing Student Board of Directors. I am currently entering my third semester in the Associate Degree Nursing program at Mercer County Community College.
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Prior to pursuing nursing, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Montclair State University, an experience that strengthened my passion for health, wellness, and caring for others. Alongside school, I have gained hands-on healthcare experience working in both dialysis and hospital settings, which has continued to deepen my love for nursing and my interest in critical care.
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I joined NJNS because I wanted to represent future nurses and inspire others to believe that their goals and dreams are always within reach. With that purpose in mind, I have decided to run for NJNS Treasurer. I chose to pursue this position because it challenged me and pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I strongly believe that growth begins when comfort ends.
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Through this experience, I hope to encourage students to believe in themselves, take risks, and never underestimate what they are capable of achieving. Embracing opportunities that challenge me has helped shape me into a stronger student, leader, and future nurse. To me, the sky is truly the limit.
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Outside of nursing, I enjoy traveling and hope to explore as much of the world as possible one day. I have also recently developed a passion for videography and enjoy finding creative ways to capture meaningful moments and memories.
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As Treasurer, I look forward to continuing my growth as both a leader and student nurse while working alongside peers who are committed to supporting, empowering, and advocating for nursing students across New Jersey.
Pulsebeat Editor / Public Relations Director
Pari Patel, Rutgers School of Nursing
Hello! My name is Pari Patel, and I am honored to serve as the Pulsebeat Editor / Director of Public Relations. I am entering my junior year in the Traditional Bachelor’s Program at Rutgers School of Nursing - New Brunswick. I served as the Director of Resolutions of the Rutgers Student Nurses’ Association (RSNA), and am currently Vice President. On behalf of RSNA, I presented a resolution at the 74th Annual NSNA Convention in Houston, Texas, in support of raising awareness of umbilical cord blood banking which was passed by the House of Delegates. At school, I also partake in other leadership roles, such as Secretary of the Rutgers American Cancer Society. I hope to work in the field of pediatrics, to eventually become a Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine.
After being a part of RSNA as a freshman and sophomore, I attended the NJNS 74th Annual Convention. I was able to serve as a monitor to participate within the organization of the conference and assist attendees while engaging with fellow students, faculty, and guest speakers across the nursing profession. While actively participating, I was inspired to join the NJNS Board of Directors after seeing how dedicated the organization is to furthering and supporting students within the field of nursing, while fostering a sense of community.
Outside of nursing, I enjoy baking and remaining active. I have recently been baking sourdough bread, and I plan to expand and experiment with recipes. I like to play volleyball, and visit the beach with my friends.
Within this role, I look forward to enhancing the organization’s website and social media presence to increase engagement and membership, as well as managing the production of the Pulsebeat Newsletter. I am excited to work alongside the other Board Directors and contribute to the field of nursing, while making an impact on students!
Membership/Nominations Director
Tammy Chao is a nursing student from The College of New Jersey and is honored to serve as the Membership and Nomination Director for the NJNS Board of Directors. During her time with NJNS, she hopes to make meaningful and lasting contributions to fellow nurses and nursing students by promoting professional memberships and increasing NJNS participation.
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On campus, she is involved in various organizations. She serves as the Director of Professional Development for The College of New Jersey’s Student Nurses Association, where she plans events to support her fellow nursing students such as career workshops and skills workshops. She is also a peer tutor, providing academic support to other nursing students. In addition, Tammy serves as an ambassador for AmIOk, an organization that supports students in the Mercer County area who have experienced trauma. She also served as the 2025-2026 Fundraising Director for NJNS where she managed the fundraising tasks during the 2026 convention. She is excited to apply these experiences to her current role.
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Throughout her time in college, Tammy has demonstrated a passion for professional development. She completed an externship with St. Luke’s University Health Network and has held assistant roles at a physician’s office, a long-term care facility, and an assisted living facility. Throughout her term as Membership and Nominations Director, she hopes to promote nursing student professional involvements and increase membership.
Health Policy and Advocacy Director
Alejandra Jaramillo,
Population and Global Health Director
Maria Martinez, Rutgers School of Nursing
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Salutations!
My name is Maria, and I am honored to serve as your Population and Global Health Director for the 2026–2027 academic year. I am a sophomore at the Rutgers School of Nursing–Newark and an EOF Scholar. I also serve as the Sophomore Class Representative for my campus Student Senate and as the Resolutions Director for the Rutgers Student Nurses Association (RSNA).
Before entering my freshman year, I knew I wanted to strengthen my leadership abilities and become involved in research. During my freshman year, I joined RSNA as a member and became involved with the Resolutions Committee. I also had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Annual State Convention, where I learned more about NJNS and its mission.
As Population and Global Health Director, I hope to promote greater awareness of statewide health issues while encouraging community engagement among nursing students. I believe it is essential for future nurses to understand these issues in order to provide informed, compassionate, and effective patient care.
Through this experience, I hope to continue developing my leadership and research skills while contributing to the growth and success of NJNS. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, doing arts and crafts, and baking pastries. I am excited to work alongside fellow board members and students across the state to make this year impactful, inspiring, and empowering for all!
Breakthrough to Nursing Director
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Nallely Martinez, Essex County College
Nallely Martinez is honored to serve as the Breakthrough to Nursing (BTN) Director for the New Jersey Nursing Students, Inc. (NJNS) for 2026–2027. Nallely is an upcoming first-generation college graduate as a senior nursing student in Essex County College. Being a first-generation college graduate is a significant milestone that strengthened her resilience, determination, and deepest commitment to creating pathways for others. Navigating nursing school without a generational roadmap has given her firsthand insight into the importance of mentorship, guidance, and accessible support. These experiences inspire her commitment to supporting nursing students through NJNS.
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Throughout her academic journey, she gained hands-on experience and clinical knowledge which served as positive reinforcement of nursing profession expectations and standards. For the past four years, Nallely had the opportunity to work as a Clinical Assistant in a physical therapy clinic, sharpening her holistic healthcare skills by supporting individuals with presenting medical-wellness concerns.
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Alongside this, Nallely remains involved in community-based initiatives, including local park revitalization efforts and annual church giveback programs. Building on her experiences, she serves as a Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) teacher, where she translates service into mentorship by supporting diverse learners, fostering confidence, and creating environments where individuals feel encouraged to expand their faith-based knowledge.
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As the Breakthrough to Nursing (BTN) Director for the New Jersey Nursing Students, Inc. (NJNS) for 2026–2027, Nallely's commitment and approach is to proactively provide resources for students in nursing programs across New Jersey by engaging with committees, advisors, and administrators while representing NJNS. Her vision is to connect with communities and leaders who foster strong collaborative relationships. Her focus during her term is to emphasize service commitment, student advocacy, and strengthening peer mentorship in support of underrepresented voices by creating environments where nursing students feel confident and encouraged throughout their academic journey.
Resolutions Director
Neha Venugopal, Rutgers University School of Nursing
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Hello! My name is Neha Venugopal, and I am thrilled to serve as Resolutions Director on this year's New Jersey Nursing Students Board. I am entering my sophomore year in the nursing program at Rutgers University School of Nursing in New Brunswick.
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After attending the NJNS convention in February as a delegate, I came to appreciate how much the NJNS board does to represent New Jersey nursing students and elevate our voices to a national level. What made me even more eager to join the board was knowing that not only would I be able to contribute to something greater, but that I would be surrounded by caring and experienced mentors. I hope to offer my writing experience, critical thinking skills, and curiosity to construct a well-developed and relevant resolution.
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Last year, I was on the resolutions committee of the Rutgers Student Nurses’ Association, where I helped research and draft a resolution. Working directly on the resolution showed me how real challenges faced by nursing students can be practically addressed and solved through effective resolutions. I’m looking forward to engaging with the issues my fellow nursing students are identifying and facing and to collaborating with my fellow board members to create change.
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Outside of nursing, I'm deeply involved in my Christian college ministry and am a classically trained vocalist. I'm passionate about maternal healthcare, health equity, and creating structural changes that makes a difference for both patients and nurses.
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I am excited to grow within this role and learn from the dedicated nurses and students making a difference across the country.
Fundraising Director
Jaida Rolon, Essex County College
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Jaida Rolon is a nursing student in the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at Essex County College. She serves as the Fundraising Director for the New Jersey Nursing Students (NJNS) Board of Directors. Clinical experiences, while in school, included time spent in medical-surgical, long-term care, psychiatric, and critical care settings. Jaida graduated in May 2026.
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On campus, Jaida is also the Fundraising Director for her school’s Student Nursing Association and serves as a Senior Peer Mentor, supporting fellow students and helping to foster a positive learning environment. She participated in internships through the Newark Works Youth One-Stop Career Center. Jaida also assisted in a farm-to-table project, promoting community engagement and wellness.
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Jaida decided to run for Fundraising Director because she enjoys bringing people together and creating opportunities that positively impact others. Through her experiences as a student leader and mentor, she has seen firsthand how valuable student organizations can be in promoting growth, confidence, and a sense of community among students. She hopes to contribute to NJNS by increasing student involvement, organizing successful fundraising efforts, and creating meaningful experiences for nursing students throughout New Jersey. Following graduation, Jaida plans to continue her education by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree while beginning her professional nursing career.
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With a background in childcare and sales, Jaida brings strong communication, time management, and organizational skills to her new role in NJNS. She is especially interested in women’s health and pediatrics. Jaida is passionate about supporting children, mothers, and families. Outside of nursing, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.